Sewing the Elastic

Use 3/8" - 5/8" wide elastic. Sew to the outside of the shoe, where it will not rub the heel and cause blisters. Measure a length of elastic to fit snugly from the back of the heel, around the ankle and back to the heel again. This elastic will hold the shoe level on the foot. It should be fairly tight (but not tight enough to stop circulation). Sew the elastic with the same type whipstitch used to secure the ribbons, starting at the top edge of the shoe, down the right side, across the bottom, taking long stitches at least ¼" into the elastic, and then up the left side of the elastic. It is not necessary to secure the elastic to the casing of the shoe. The elastic should be sewn at a slight angle at the back of the shoe.

After each wearing, the dancer should check her ribbons and elastic for any needed repairs and make them before the next wearing.