How to Sew Ribbons on Pointe Shoes?

Are you thinking of adding ribbons on your pointe shoes but don’t know how? Then don’t worry, we will explain how you can add them in this blog. 

But, before explaining the process, let’s first cover the basics of “Pointe shoe”. For a ballerina, they are the most important thing.

The task of adding ribbons onto it is also an important and delicate task. The prospect may seem daunting to beginners however, with knowledge, it is an easy task. 

Sounds Interesting right? Let’s begin! 

1. How to Add Ribbons on Pointe Shoes? 

Ladies, before we explain the sewing process you need to gather the tools and materials mentioned below: 

1. Pink or White Thread
2. A Needle
3. Some Ribbons
4. Elastic 
5. A Pencil

2. Some Safety Pins or Sewing Pins

Alright ladies, now that you have gathered the tools, it’s time to met the story; How to sew ribbons on Pointe shoes? 

2.1. Position Marking 

In the 1st step, you need to mark the position. Start by bending the back of your pointe shoe forward, you need to create a fold.

Once you’re done with this, mark the cotton lining on the both sides of the shoe using a pencil. This marking will serve as your guide for sewing the ribbons. 

2.2. Preparation 

Preparation is the 2nd step. You need to determine the ribbon’s appropriate length for each shoe. Once you are done with this, cut the ribbon in half then cut those halves again in half. At the end, you will have four even pieces. 

3.3 Sewing Ribbon

Let’s move onto the 3rd step. In this step, you need to start the sewing process. Here is how you can do it. 

First of all, take a ribbon and place it at the marked position. After that, just start the sewing process through the inner cotton lining. 

Also, make sure to avoid satin and binding while sewing. 

Once you are done with one shoe, repeat the entire process to the other shoe.  

2.4 Finishing

In the last step, you just need to trim the ends of the ribbons. This will give your Pointe shoe a professional look. Also, it is advisable to do this step with the shoes on. Here is how you can do it:

Firstly, put your shoes on after that tie the ribbons you’ve added. After that, just trim the excess.

Secondly, while doing this make sure to leave a few centimeters of overhang for adjustments. 

You can also apply a clear nail polish on the ribbons to prevent them fraying.

3. Additional Tips You Can Try

3.1 Using Elastic 

If you need extra support then you can add elastic to your pointe shoes. Here is how you can do it:

Okay, first of all, you need to pin the elastic on one side of your shoe on the back heel seam. Alright, moving on, you wanna put them on and stretch the elastic around your ankle to find a comfortable position. After that, just pin the other side. 

Once you’re done with this, sew the elastic in place. 

3.2. Flexi Ribbon Sewing

Flexi ribbon is slightly different from normal ribbon that’s why a slight modification is needed. Before applying you need to make sure that ribbed elastic section sits perfectly on your Achilles tendon. After that, just repeat the entire process mentioned above. 

Also, if you need additional support then you can sew ribbons further down the shoe. 

3.3 Knowledge of Ballet Shoes

Pointe shoes are similar to ballet shoes. That’s why you can apply the same fundamental steps that are used in ballet shoes to apply ribbons.

The only difference between the applying process is that the ribbon applied in ballet shoes is more narrow in width than pointe shoes. 

Closing Thoughts

So, To sum up, All in all, many people believe that sewing ribbons on pointe shoes is a very hard task. However, With the right knowledge and approach, you can easily sew ribbons on your pointe shoes. 

Have you tried this method before? Share your experience with us in the comment section.