How to Remove Nails From Pointe Shoes

Deshanking pointe shoes increases a dancer's flexibility.

When you reach an advanced level of ballet, your pointe shoes may become impractical. When converting your pointe shoes to semi-point or soft- block ballet shoes, you'll most likely need to deshank your shoes. Deshanking shoes saves a great deal of money in comparison to buying new ballet shoes, and requires relatively little effort and skill. However, exercise common sense when working with the butter knife you'll use, always pointing it away from your eyes.

Things You'll Need

• Butter knife

Instructions

1. Pull out the inner sole of your ballet shoe, and set it aside.

2. Locate the nails holding the shank to the bottom of the inside of the shoe. Wedge your butter knife between the shank and the nails, and slowly pull them out.

3. Replace the leather sole of your shoe. It should stay in place on its own, but, if necessary, glue it to the bottom of your shoe to keep it from sliding around. Your shoes will now be versatile enough for advanced ballet applications.

References

• Louisiana University: How to Prepare Pointe Shoes for a Performance