Inserting Elastic in the Ribbons

Dancers with a relatively small demi-plié (which becomes even smaller with ribbons tied around the ankles) may wish to sew elastic into the ribbons. This allows the ribbons to adjust to the changing size of the ankle and allows the dancer to have a near-normal plié.

To do this, sew the ribbons on as normal. Then begin to tie the ribbons, marking each one where it touches the bank of the ankle bones. Cut each ribbon straight across, melt the end, and sew a 2-3" length of 3/4" elastic to the ribbons. You may sew by hand or on a machine. Sew the remaining ribbon pieces onto the other end of the elastic. When this has been done on all four ribbons, tie as normal and cut off the extra ribbon.