How to sew elastic onto Ballet shoes: A Step-by-Step Guide with Video

When it comes to ballet shoes, the placement of elastics plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect fit and support. That's why many of our ballet shoes are intentionally designed without elastics, allowing dancers to sew them on precisely where needed.

In this blog post, we will guide you through the process, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your ballet shoes fit like a dream.

Step 1: Gather you Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary supplies at hand. These typically include ballet shoes, elastic, pencil scissors, sewing needle and matching thread.

Step 2: Find the correct position for the elastic

Begin by folding down the heel of the shoe, pressing it flat against the inside lining. Use a pencil to mark the spot where the folded top part of the shoe aligns with the binding on both sides. This will help identify the correct position for attaching the elastic later on.

Step 3: Cut your elastic into 2 equal pieces

To properly attach elastic to your ballet shoes, you'll need two equal pieces of elastic. Start by cutting your elastic in half to ensure you have the right length for each shoe.

Step 4: Stitch one side of the elastic- angle forward

Stitch one side of the elastic to the inside of the shoe at the mark you have made. Take care to sew through only the lining of the shoe, ensuring that the stitches remain hidden from the outside. Sew along the edges of the elastic, securing it in place.

As you sew, angle the elastic slightly forward to align with the curve of the foot once both sides are sewn on. This angled positioning helps the elastic conform to the natural shape of the foot, providing a comfortable fit and better support for the dancer.

Step 5: Stitch the elastic along the top to secure it

Take care not to catch the drawstring that runs inside the binding as you sew, as this can cause difficulties with future adjustments. Once you have completed the stitching, finish off with a knot stitch and trim off any excess thread for a neat and tidy finish.

Step 6: Get correct measurement for the elastic on the foot

In the next step of sewing elastic onto ballet shoes, it's important to have the person whose shoe it is to wear it. This step allows for a more precise and personalised fit as the elastic is adjusted to match the individual's foot and ankle shape. 

Tighten the drawstring as needed and tie a knot to keep it securely in place.

Then, stretch the elastic slightly over the foot, aligning it with the previously marked spot on the inside of the shoe. Create a small horizontal line at the point where the elastic meets the shoe, ensuring proper placement for sewing. This step ensures that the elastic will provide the necessary support and hold the shoe in place during ballet activities.

Step 7: Sew the elastic to other side of the ballet shoe

Before sewing the elastic to the other side of the shoe, it's important to trim off the excess elastic, leaving approximately 1cm of length. This will ensure that the elastic is just the right size to be sewn securely to the opposite side of the shoe. Use sharp scissors to carefully trim the excess elastic, being mindful not to cut too close to the stitch line.

Line up the horizontal line you made with the top edge of the shoe and the mark previously made on the inside of the shoe. This alignment is crucial to ensure that the elastic is attached at the appropriate position on the shoe.

Sew along the edge and the top as before.

Step 8: Repeat these steps with the other shoe

Repeat the previous steps, including trimming the excess elastic and aligning the horizontal line and mark on the inside of the shoe, with the other shoe.

Ensure that both shoes are treated in the same manner and that the elastic is attached securely and at the correct position on each shoe.

Step 9: Check the fit of the ballet shoes to see if it is comfortable

After attaching the elastic to both shoes, it's important to check the fit to ensure optimal comfort. Have the dancer try on the ballet shoes and assess how they feel. The shoes should fit snugly but not be too tight or restrictive.

The elastic should provide the right amount of support and hold the shoes securely in place without causing discomfort or digging into the skin. If needed, make any necessary adjustments to the elastic or overall fit of the shoes to ensure a comfortable and proper fit for the dancer's feet.