Tying on your block or pointe shoe for ballet

To tie your Bloch ballet or pointe shoe ribbons neatly and securely, follow a standard method that keeps the knot comfortable and hidden.

Step-by-Step Tying Instructions

• Position your foot: Flex your foot or point/demi-plié slightly so the ankle muscle is engaged. This ensures the ribbons are not tied too tightly when you dance.
• Start with the inside ribbon: Take the ribbon attached to the inside of the shoe. Wrap it flat around the front of your ankle once or one-and-a-half times. Keep it low—do not wrap it too high up your calf.
• Bring in the outside ribbon: Take the ribbon from the outside of the shoe. Cross it over the front of your foot and wrap it around the back of your ankle in the opposite direction, meeting the first ribbon on the inner side of your ankle.
• Tie a double knot: Tie a secure double knot on the inside of your ankle (specifically in the soft space just forward of your Achilles tendon and behind your ankle bone). Never tie the knot directly over your Achilles tendon, as pressure there can cause injury.
• Tuck the ends: Tuck the knot and any remaining ribbon wings smoothly under the layers of wrapped ribbon around your ankle so everything looks flat and clean.