Category
Pointe-rs
Everything pointe, fitting, care, and going up on your toes.
Ballet Shoe Sizing: How They Should Fit
Soft ballet slippers should fit snug like a glove, not roomy. How to size them, why dance size differs from street size, and the grow-into-it myth.
Pre-Pointe: Are You Ready? A Checklist
Wondering if you're ready for pointe shoes? Here's what teachers actually look for, how a pointe assessment works, and why it's never a solo decision.
Ballet Shoes vs Pointe Shoes: The Beginner's Guide
Ballet shoes vs pointe shoes, explained for beginners and parents. Here's the real difference between soft ballet slippers and pointe shoes, and why you can't start on pointe.
How to Wash Ballet Tights So They Last
How to wash and care for ballet tights so they last: hand washing vs machine, water temperature, drying, and dealing with runs and holes.
Freed of London: A Dancer's Guide to the Brand
A friendly guide to Freed of London dancewear: who they are, what makers and the maker's mark stamp mean, and which dancers their pointe shoes tend to suit.
How Long Do Pointe Shoes Last?
How long do pointe shoes last and when should you replace them? A friendly guide to pointe shoe lifespan, dead-shoe signs, and tips to make each pair go further.
Pointe Shoe Accessories: The Essentials Every Dancer Needs
The pointe shoe accessories that actually matter, from toe pads and spacers to ribbons, elastics, and blister care, and how to use each one.
Ballet for All Ages: Tailoring Training Across Lifespans
From toddlers taking their first plié to adults returning to the barre after decades, I've seen firsthand how ballet for different age groups can be empowering, joyful, and life-changing.
Ballet Basics: A Beginner’s Guide to Positions, Techniques, and Training
Embarking on a ballet journey is both exciting and rewarding. As someone who has experienced the transformative power of ballet, I'm thrilled to share some.
What is an Allongé?
Allonge means stretched or lengthened. Learn what an allonge is in ballet, how it is used in arabesque and other positions, and how to perform it with a long line.
Allegro Meaning in Ballet: All the Jumps, Explained
Allegro means the fast, jumping steps in ballet. Here's what allegro means, plus petit vs grand allegro and simple tips to make your jumps look easy.
5 Time Management Tips to Prevent Dance Burnout
For the constant kids’ activities, I pulled in an expert to answer parent questions about time management, picking the right ones, and preventing burnout.
Mastering the Art of Tying Pointe Shoes in Ballet: A Step-by-Step Guide
Pointe shoes are an essential part your ballet attire. They all you to perform with grace, poise, and precision.
What is a Dégagé in Ballet?
A degage is a ballet step where the working foot brushes along the floor and lifts slightly with a pointed toe. Learn how to do a degage and how it differs from a tendu.
What is a Coupé in Ballet?
A coupé in ballet defines an action that has a "cutting movement."
Audition Tips for Ballet Dancers
Audition tips for ballet dancers. Find a few key tips for your next ballet audition.
How to Be a Ballet Teacher
Are you interested in becoming a ballet teacher? Learn how you can become a ballet teacher and plan your first class.
Darning Your Pointe Shoes
Learn how to darn your pointe shoes. Darning your pointe shoes can be an effective way to increase the longevity of your pointe shoes, increase friction, and more.
Tendu Meaning: What It Is and How to Do One Right
Tendu means stretch. Here's what a tendu is, how to do a clean one, and the small mistakes that quietly hold most dancers back at the barre.
How to Get Ready for Pointe Shoes
Think you're ready for pointe shoes? Learn what teachers look for and how to get ready to dance on pointe shoes. BalletBox is the #1 resource for everything ballet.
Pointe Shoes for Egyptian Feet
Egyptian feet have a long big toe that tapers down. Learn the best pointe shoe brands, box shapes, and fitting tips for Egyptian foot type dancers.
How to Sew Pointe Shoe Ribbons
One of my favorite memories from ballet was when I finally made it en pointe. It's the moment that separates the serious dancers from the novices.