How to Tie Pointe Shoes

Ballerinas are gorgeous creatures that have the amazing ability to dance on their toes. It seems magical but really it's just a lot of hard work and some wonderful shoes. Pointe shoes are the most important part of a ballerina's wardrobe. But to be able to dance in them they must be tied correctly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pointe shoes with attached ribbons

1. Put your foot in the pointe shoe. Your foot should be under the elastic strap. Take the ribbons and pull them up straight so they are side by side. One of the ribbons should be slightly shorter than the other.

2. Take the long ribbon and cross it over the front of the ankle and hold it tight. Then take the short ribbon and cross it over the long ribbon across the ankle. Both ribbons should be tight across the ankle but still flat and not folding into the ankle, wrinkling or twisting.

3. Now take the long ribbon and continue around the ankle again so it loops back to the inside of the ankle and there is only a small section left. Allow the shorter ribbon to meet it at the inside of the ankle.

4. Tie the ribbons together in a small knot. You should probably double knot it to ensure it doesn't come undone while dancing. Then tuck the knot under the ribbon so the knot is hidden. Now stand and go on pointe. If your ribbons are loose you'll need to retie them and make them tighter. If the ribbons cut into your ankles then they're too tight and you'll need to loosen them.

Tips & Warnings

• You don't want your ribbons to be loose.
• Keep the ribbons flat, don't let them twist or crinkle.
• Don't try your ribbons too loose because after a while they'll either tear or cut into your ankles.