How to Use Rosin for Ballet Shoes
The soles of new ballet shoes are made of a soft, malleable leather that is naturally slippery when new. Ballerinas use rosin to help rough up the bottoms of their shoes and provide some grip for wood flooring. Rosin is a solid form of resin found in pine trees and some plants. It has a strong friction-increasing capacity which makes it suitable for using to increase grip and control.
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Instructions
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Pour a handful-size amount of rosin onto the floor in a corner of the dance room or off-stage. Pour it on a wood floor or in a rosin box (small, shallow wooden box).
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Put on your ballet slippers or pointe shoes. Put one foot in the rosin box and rub the ball of your foot into the rosin. Take your foot out of the box and tap the rosin off on the side of the box or on the floor to remove excess rosin.
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Quickly dip your heel in the rosin box. Tap your heel on the edge of the box or floor to remove excess rosin.
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Rub your ball and heel into the floor to make sure your feet are sticking somewhat but not overly sticky or overly slippery.
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Tips & Warnings
Dip the bottom of your shoes in a tad of water before a performance if rosin will show on your tights and costume.
Don't use too much rosin as it will clump up and prevent you from being able to turn.
