How to Tie Ribbons for Pointe Shoes

Pointe is a form of ballet in which ballerinas wear pointe shoes. They raise themselves up on the ends of the toes for moves and positions while performing. A pointe shoe is made of satin, two ribbons, a stiff blocked toe and an elastic strap across the top of the foot. The ribbons extend from the sides behind the elastic.

Things You'll Need

• Pointe Shoes

Instructions

1. Insert foot into the shoe. Place the foot on the floor so that the shin is at a ninety degree angle to the foot.

2. Grasp the ribbon that is on the inside of the foot and straighten it. Pull the ribbon until it is tight and move it across the front of the ankle. Wrap the ribbon (staying just above the ankle bone) around the back, around the front again, stopping at the back of the ankle. The ribbon should feel tight, but shouldn't hurt when you move.

3. Still holding the first ribbon, grasp the ribbon on the opposite side of the shoe. Move it across the ankle toward the inside of the leg, around the back of the ankle, above the first ribbon. Continue to wrap the ribbon until you reach the front of the ankle again. Pass the end of the ribbon down through this wrap. Flatten and tighten.

4. Tie the two ribbons together on the inside of the leg, behind the ankle bone. Tuck the knot up under the layers of ribbon to create a smooth, clean look.

5. Stand up and check the ribbons. It should be possible to do a plie with no restriction.

Tips & Warnings

• Seal the ends of the ribbon nail polish to keep them from fraying. To keep the knot from untying, wrap a clear band aid around the ribbon; or stitch the tucked in knot to the rest of the ribbon.

• Work with a qualified teacher when going "en pointe."

Resources

• American Ballet Theatre's Ballet Dictionary
• History of Ballet