Brand-new pointe shoes don’t come ready to dance in. They arrive with the ribbons and elastics loose in the box, and it’s up to you to attach them by hand. It might feel like a daunting first step, but learning how to sew ribbons and elastics on pointe shoes properly is one of the most important things you’ll do for your fit, support, and safety. Sew them in the right spot and your shoes hug your feet, sew them in the wrong spot and you’ll fight your shoes every time you rise.

Here’s how to do it right!

What you’ll need

  • Your pointe shoes
  • Pointe shoe ribbon (about 2.5 yards, cut into four equal pieces)
  • Elastic (3/8″ or 1/2″ wide)
  • A strong, sharp needle and heavy-duty thread (button or carpet thread works well)
  • A thimble, because pointe shoe layers are tough to push through
  • Scissors, a pencil, and a lighter or fray sealant for the ribbon ends

Step 1: Find the right placement

Before you thread a needle, figure out where everything goes. The classic trick: fold the heel of the shoe forward toward the toe until the back of the heel touches the inside of the shoe. The crease this creates shows you the natural fold line of your foot.

Attach your ribbons just in front of that crease, angled slightly toward the toe so they lie flat across your ankle when crossed and tied. Mark both spots with a pencil on the inside lining. Elastics generally sit at or just behind that same crease, closer to the heel.

A quick but crucial note: every teacher has preferences, and some studios require a specific placement. When in doubt, ask before you sew! It’s much easier than picking out stitches later.

Step 2: Sew the ribbons

Cut your ribbon into four pieces (two per shoe), and seal the cut ends so they don’t fray. Seal by passing the synthetic ribbon (quickly!) over a lighter’s flame, or dab on a fray sealant. Fold the raw end under about a quarter inch where it meets the shoe.

Position the ribbon end on the inside lining at your marked spot, then stitch a small square or rectangle through the binding and lining, reinforcing it with a stitch across the diagonals for strength. The golden rule: never sew through the outer satin, and never catch the drawstring. Stitching through the satin shows on the outside and weakens the shoe; catching the drawstring means you’ll never be able to adjust the fit. Knot your thread securely and trim. Repeat for all four ribbons.

Step 3: Attach the elastics

Elastics keep the heel from slipping and add ankle support. The simplest setup is a single band across the front of the ankle: stitch one end to the inside of the heel near the back seam, then the other end on the opposite side, so the elastic crosses over the top of your foot.

Many dancers prefer a criss-cross configuration for extra hold, using two elastics that form an X over the ankle. Stitch each end securely with the same boxed stitch you used for the ribbons, again working only through the lining and binding. Try the shoe on and check the tension before you finish. The elastic should feel snug and supportive, never tight enough to dig in or cut off circulation.

Pro tips and common mistakes

  • Sew by hand, not machine. Hand-stitching lets you control depth and avoid the satin and drawstring.
  • Mirror your placement. Pointe shoes often aren’t left- or right-specific, but your ribbon and elastic positions should match on both shoes.
  • Use a thimble and short lengths of thread. It saves your fingers and prevents tangling.
  • Don’t rush the knots. Loose stitches are the number one reason ribbons come undone mid-class.

Sewing your first pair takes patience, but by your third or fourth pair it becomes second nature. Might even become a peaceful ritual you come to enjoy!

Ready for your next pair?

The right shoes make all the difference, and so do the right supplies. The Dance Store carries a full range of pointe shoes, ribbons, elastics, and sewing kits, shipped free on orders of $150+ across Canada, so you’ve got everything you need to get sewing.

Once your shoes are stitched and ready, learn how to make them last with our guides on How to Properly Break in Pointe Shoes and 5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Pointe Shoes. New to pointe altogether? Start with our guide Can Beginners Wear Pointe Shoes?