Sewing and Tying of Ribbons and Elastics onto Pointe Shoes
While so much has been written about the fitting of pointe shoes, there is scant information about what to do after you have purchased the perfect pair of pointe shoes. In my experience, so many dancers come up short simply because their pointe shoe ribbons and elastics are not sewn correctly with the result that their feet often fall out of their shoes as they have insufficient support or hold of the foot in the pointe shoe as a result of bad sewing.
Before you even attempt to start sewing the ribbons into your shoes, be absolutely sure that they fit perfectly as dance shops are unlikely to refund your money once the ribbons are sewn on. It is often good to have a second fitting with your teacher who can give you that final approval.
Ensure that you have bought ribbons and elastic with the shoes. Most dance shops sell the ribbons and elastics separately and often don't offer to sell these as so many dancers recycle and re-use old ribbons. So, make sure that you ask for ribbons and check to see that they are a shiny satin on the one side but grosgrain on the other side. Also ask for approximately 18 inches of pink elastic.
Elastics should be sewn onto the shoes for those dancers whose feet are over-arched or who may need the extra support to keep the foot firmly in the shoe when on full pointe.
Divide the 5/8" elastic into two equal halves and then sew it in a semi circle from the back of the shoe where the seam meets on either side. The elastic should lie along the top of the ankle giving a more firm connection to the shoe and the foot.
Take the ribbon (7/8" wide) and fold into four equal lengths (approx 22 inches each). Cut it neatly.
Then singe the top of the ribbon lightly against a flame to prevent any further fraying. This will melt the fibres of the ribbon which will then bond and prevent any further fraying.
Fold over the ribbon on one end (approx 1.5 inches) so that you create a good strong base with which to attach to the shoe. Sew this neatly around three edges ensuring that the satin side is on the outside.
Now, fold over the back of the shoe to the sock liner. This is about where you are going to want to sew your ribbons.
Place the ribbon (satin side out) at about a 35 degree angle running toward the top (block) of the shoe. This is important as the ribbons will then lie flat against your ankle when you tie them. As you sew the ribbon onto the shoe, make sure that you don't catch any of the outside satin with your thread. Only attach the ribbons to the inside canvas of your shoe. Pink cotton double strand is most commonly used but dental floss is also a good alternative.
It is important to sew the ribbon along the bias (top) of the shoe but again ensure that you don't catch the string that runs under the bias of your shoe as you will not be able to pull your shoes up afterward.