I got blisters on my fingers! (Reflecting as I go)

I started hand stitching the sole of the shoe a few days ago but it wasn't as easy and straightforward as I thought it will be.
Choosing to use a Hemp rope 6mm wide made it very hard to stitch through and I ended up with blisters on my fingers...
I was about to give up and only put the design sketches on my blog, but thought I should give it another go before handing in the project.

My initial design was much more complicated and probably better designed, but coming to work with the Hemp I realised I have ordered one that was too thick, and if I wanted to execute my design it would have ended up about size 15 (adults), while the designed shoe is size 10 (kids).

it is important to note that these particular shoes are designed for a dry summer as the only sole is the Hemp. I thought of using a rubber sole to be glued onto the Hemp but as it is not a organic or ecological material I have decided not to use it.

Putting the shoe and the sole together requires more hand stitching and I am not capable of doing it in an accurate way, but this is the general idea:

The bit that goes over the top is due to a poor design. Originally it should have circle both pieces and firming the design to avoid separation or tearing of the sole.

I was thinking whether or not I should use glue, but couldn't find anything to say if PVA glue is considered ecological or not, so I haven't used it. I believe it is a dissolvable material.

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What went well:

* The design itself is wearable and is recognised as a shoe.

* Once having the initial idea, it was easy to design and follow the pattern I have designed.

* Although the design is simple, what makes it "Not ugly" is the patterns (paintings) on the fabric. The painting on the fabric can be different, and because it is all hand painted it is always a case of one of shoes.

What went not so well:

* Delays at my work due to broken sewing machine

* The design of the sole and poor decisions as to where to cut the Hemp and how strong the stiches should hold.

* Because the sole is hand stitched it causes a lot of pain and some blisters...

* Having to change the design of the sole.

* The design itself reminds me more of Japanese foot binding than stylish shoes...

Future:

I would love to give this project another go, only next time I will adjust it to my needs, and will probably not choose to go with the idea of ecological friendly design and materials. I believe I can do better with different materials such as Satin on the outside and a lighter material on the inside. Also, I will probably use proper soles so the shoes can be used in every country in any (reasonable) summer weather.

I am still very much intrigued with the Japanese designs and themes and will, without a doubt, use them again in the future.