How to Turn Children's Tap Shoes into Slip Ons

Most children's beginning tap shoes are similar to the style above - the traditional patent leather Mary Jane style.  Unfortunately, these shoes usually come with black grosgrain ribbon laces that need to be tied and ultimately get lost.  I have never been able to find replacement laces for children's tap shoes.  They can be replaced with a piece of matching 1/4 inch grosgrain ribbon, but the ends will fray if they are not sealed and, they still need to be tied if your dancer cannot tie his or her own shoes (boys oxford style tap shoes usually have laces that are easier to replace - flat cotton or round type laces). 

It is very easy to turn this style of tap shoes into slip ons. All you need is two large shank-style buttons and about four inches of round elastic in a color to match the shoes (have you seen the adorable light pink tap shoes?).  A slender small hair tie will also work.  Be creative with your button choice (as long as your dance instructor doesn't mind) - this button is shiny black with crystals.  How about some of those cute colorful daisy shaped buttons?

Tie a knot in the end of the round elastic (skip this step if you are using a hair tie).  Thread the elastic (or hair tie) through the shank of the button.

Push the elastic loop on one side of the shank through the loop on the other side of the shank and pull it tight leaving the button secured on the elastic loop.

Thread the large loop you now have attached to the button through both eyelets of the tap shoe.

Place the elastic loop over the button.  You are finished!  Now, the shoe can be pulled open enough for a little dancer's foot to slide in and the elastic pulls tight to hold the shoe on.  Now make another elastic tie for the other shoe.  No shoe tying needed!  Make several sets with different buttons and your dancer can change her look whenever she wants to!