Elastic is an important part of ballet shoes as it helps to keep the shoe secure on the foot. It also adds more support and stability to the dancer’s feet during quick movements and turns. For many dancers, properly sewing elastic onto their ballet shoes is essential for a comfortable, secure fit.
When sewing elastic onto your ballet shoes, it’s important to know where exactly to place it on the shoe. You will typically want to sew two pieces of elastic onto each side of the shoe – one at the heel and one at the arch – in order to create a secure hold for your foot.
Sewing Elastic at the Heel
When sewing elastic at the heel, place one end of your piece of elastic so that it sits just below and to the side of your ankle bone. Make sure that there is no gap between your ankle and the edge of the elastic.
Then, sew along this edge with a zigzag stitch, making sure that you are going around your heel as you do so. Once you reach back around where you began stitching, stitch over this area twice in order to create a secure hold that will last through heavy wear and tear.
Sewing Elastic at the Arch
For sewing elastic at the arch, begin by placing one end directly underneath your arch and make sure that there is no gap between your foot and the edge of this piece as well. Then, using a zigzag stitch again, sew along this edge until you reach back around where you began stitching. Stitch over this area twice in order to create a secure hold for your foot in this area as well.
Finishing Up
Once both pieces are securely sewn into place on either side of your feet, you’re all set! Your shoes should now fit comfortably and securely when worn during practice or performance. Make sure to adjust any areas that feel too tight or too loose before beginning dancing so that you can stay comfortable throughout class or rehearsal time.
In conclusion, sewing elastic onto ballet shoes can be an important part of creating a secure fit for any dancer’s feet during practice or performance time. For best results, make sure that each piece is placed just below and to either side of either ankle bone or arch with no gap in between before beginning stitching with a zigzag stitch pattern around each area until back where you began stitching; then stitch over this area twice in order to create an extra secure hold that will last through heavy wear and tear.