MEMBER ARTICLE: Engaging with a Bootblack
from
Recon News
13 December 2022
Author Tagline: By Suburbdad6
Many of us have been at a bar or an event and seen an elevated chair and a Bootblack or two working. But what is going on there? Is this a set-up for a public one-on-one scene or just an entrepreneurial shoeshine. Maybe you are thinking of engaging this person for well needed attention to your boots or gear. These are my notes as to what is proper etiquette and what should be understood before you sit down in that chair.
As a note, I'm just a run-of-the-mill leatherman. Not a Master, not a slave. Never been in a contest. Definitely not a trained bootblack. Mostly, I'm an observer of the North American leather scene who likes helping introduce or explain this world to newcomers.
As we were discussing, the Bootblack that one might observe is likely a well-trained service provider. She/He/They is more than a shoeshine and has put a lot of effort into learning their skills, choosing their products and has put themselves out there. Bootblacks are a part of the leather community and consider themselves historians and preservers of the community's garments.
Skills.
In many cases, the Bootblack has gone through an apprenticeship and spent many hours working on boots and other garments before being invited to work this event. They take great pride in providing a new life to your garment and making you proud of owning such a garment. At a minimum they have spent dozens of hours working on others' garments and boots, honing their style and perfecting techniques. The event's organiser searched out and recruited this bootblack, so likely they know what they are doing.
Products.
There are dozens of products out there for each step of the process. This Bootblack has more than the dried-up puck of Kiwi polish that you have at home. Each Bootblack has created a box of supplies to help them meet their customers' needs; there are items for brushing, cleaning, wiping, conditioning, and polishing, each chosen based on their knowledge and understanding. They have put time and a lot of money into building their kit. Products in that kit are based on their preference, their apprenticeship, hand-me-down products from mentors/friends or other personal preference products that they have learned about and selected.
Time.
This is a service and it takes time for a good job. Most likely, tonight's Bootblack will expend more time and effort, than your barber does on your head. All for something they may not see again.
Motivation.
The Bootblack is there to be of service to the community. On the most straight-forward level, they want to help you get the most out of your gear. Service is their thing, but each has their own reasons to do the work of a bootblack. Some do it out of their love for leather, others for the power dynamic of being at a leatherman's [person's of leather] feet. But while being of service most often follows the traditional dom/sub power dynamic, once you are in their chair, they run the show.
Ready to climb in that chair? Keep in mind that this is a person, there voluntarily, and not being paid other than by you and other customers. Approach the bootblack, without interrupting them and inquire what their schedule is. If the chair is empty, inquire if they are anticipating a client that has just stepped away and when a time may be available. Remember that the best polish and experiences are based on skills and knowledge, not on age, race, body type or gender.
Occasionally, Bootblacks have a posted suggested rate for services provided. Others provide the service for free and work for tips. Also note that the Bootblack may be donating some or all of their tips to a charity and plan to walk away with only costs tonight. Posted rates are suggestions and are based on an average garment, large, filthy or abused garments will take more time and should be compensated accordingly. Note that many Bootblacks will negotiate this fee/tips based on your circumstances, so suggestions are suggestions. Just ask. They may have an idea for payment as well. [Yes, I admit, in one instance, payment was made in private.] But it is best that both of you understand the transaction price before you begin.
Just like a trim at the barber, you need to describe what you want done, and discuss what is possible with the bootblack. Oiled leathers cannot be made spit-shine (high-shine), and faux leather uses different products than real leather. Feel free to ask about products they use and if you have a preference, you can request it. Ask about the products, odours, and Make your expectations clear. Remember, they may not be able to provide the service you are expecting. Know this up front. Some leather cannot be made to look new again. This is a negotiation and both you and the bootblack have the right to refuse the transaction. (I'm not one who is very clear and explicit, and thus it is my fault that I didn't specifically ask for a high-shine on my favourite pair of Redwing loggers.) Walk away gracefully if that is the case and they aren't able to meet your wants. Don't be that jerk that they tell all their friends about because you had a temper tantrum when they were done.
You are an adult and should be conscious of your behaviour and consent. ASK before acting. They will. Don't assume; you likely don't know this person's story. Some may be flirtatious and touchy with their best pal, while still suffering trauma from past abuse and not want to touch you that way. Just because that sub in the back asked to lick your boots, doesn't mean that this bootblack has any interest in doing such. Some Bootblacks may appreciate a drink, and others are trying to remain sober. Some are under the watchful eye of their Sir, Master or pup. Again ASK before acting.
While in the chair, share some of your leather's history with your bootblack. They are here to preserve both the leather and its stories. Give them your history with that garment. Was it your first? How did you get it? Why do you want it serviced? Who was the last person who took care of it? How did it get that gouge or scratch? This helps both you and the Bootblack more appreciate the service rendered.
Also ask the person at your feet about why they are bootblacking, and why at this event. You may be surprised.
While you are in the stand or chair, don't forget to sit back, enjoy and absorb the experience and the service. The experience should feel personal and powerful. But remember, while it is all about your boots, it is not always just about you.
Suburbdad6 – is now living in the suburbs of Rehoboth Beach Delaware, appreciating retirement, but trying to build a leather community in his small adopted beach town.
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