April 24 - 27, 2025

Wanna shine at International Ms Leather & International Ms Bootblack 2025? You’ve got until March 15 to apply!​

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You must be:

• Weirdly enthusiastic about rubbing on leather and/or latex

• Able to work a 5-6 hour shift at the stands/table
   

Bootblacks working a full 5-6 hour shift will receive 1 Basic Registration package. People of color, women, femmes, trans folks, and disabled folks are especially encouraged to apply. 

 

Key Dates:

 

• Application Deadline: March 15

• Applicants Contacted: March 22

• Schedule Confirmed: April 1

• Schedule Released to the Public: April 8

 

Frequently Asked Questions

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• Can I sign up for multiple shifts?

  • No, but feel free to pick up more time during unscheduled hours in the mornings and evenings, or at one of the additional stands in the dungeon or smoke tent!

 

• Do I have to donate my tips?

  • No, bootblacks at IMsLBB keep 100% of their tips. If you’d like to donate, however, proceeds will go toward the IMsLBB ASL Team.

 

• Does bootblacking count as volunteer time?

  • For a limited number of individuals, bootblacking can count as volunteer hours. You MUST select the “2 hour volunteer shift” option in the application.

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• What if my bootblack shift overlaps with my class or volunteer shift?

  • It is your responsibility to ensure that they don’t. Be mindful of your existing schedule when scheduling bootblacking shifts.

 

• Am I required to bootblack for anyone who walks up?

  • No. Please include any concerns/preferences about guests in your stand in your response to the question about accommodations on the application. Note: any requested accommodation stemming from an oppressive mindset – one that perpetuates non-consensual dynamics between marginalized groups and their counterparts – will not be accepted. For specific instances of harm, please provide details in the designated section.

 

• I’m a titleholder. Can I have extra stand time or only work during peak hours?

  • While we strive to create an inclusive and fair environment, we do give some priority to previous IMsBB titleholders. However, all bootblacks, including titleholders, will follow the same application and scheduling process.

 

• Can I apply if I’m a baby bootblack?

  • If you feel ready to work the stands, yes! Newer bootblacks will be scheduled to work alongside more experienced bootblacks. If you’re not sure, drop by the stands during the event. We’ll have opportunities for new bootblacks to shadow more experienced ones, learn about products, and meet others throughout the weekend. Our self-paced drop-off table is also a great option for new bootblacks.

 

• Can I make appointments during my shift? 

  • No. The stands operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with special priority given to judges, event staff, and those who purchase a fast-track pass. If you’d like to schedule private appointments, you are welcome to do so outside of public stand hours, which are early mornings and evenings each day. There will also be stands available in the dungeon and smoke tent that can be used at any time!

 

• Can people request me as their bootblack?

  • Guests may request a specific bootblack only if there is no line for service. This policy helps maintain fairness and prevents popularity contests at the stands. While some people prefer to sit for certain bootblacks, special requests will only be honored if they do not disrupt the overall flow of service.
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• Will there still be an opportunity for me to work the stands if I don’t apply beforehand?

  • There will be opportunities to sign up to bootblack each morning. Limited slots available. Otherwise, bootblacks are welcomed to use the stands outside of scheduled hours each day. 
     

If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact the Bootblack Coordinator at shaanthebootblack@gmail.com.