If your dancer needs convertible tights for jazz or contemporary work, a Bloch stitch kit is the tool that makes them actually functional. This guide covers what the kit does, how to choose the right convertible tights, and which jazz essentials are worth adding to your order. All products ship tracked to New Zealand from our Australian warehouse.
What Is a Bloch Stitch Kit?
A Bloch stitch kit is a small sewing tool designed specifically for convertible dance tights. The pointed hook helps you fold back the opening at the foot and stitch it neatly to the side seam, keeping the hole out of the way during class. Without it, the opening shifts, bunches, or catches on the floor. With it, your tights sit flat and stay put through turns, leaps, and floor work.
The kit is compact enough to live in a dance bag permanently. It takes less than two minutes to use once you know the technique, and it protects the tights from tearing at the opening edge over time.
Choosing the Right Convertible Tights for Jazz and Contemporary
Not all convertible tights work the same way. The opening size, fabric weight, and waistband height all affect how they perform in class.
Fabric and Weight
Bloch convertible tights come in footed, footless, and convertible styles across different fabric weights. For jazz, a mid-weight microfibre sits close to the leg without restricting movement. For contemporary and barefoot work, a lighter, more matte finish lets the foot grip the floor naturally when the opening is folded back.
Sizing for NZ Dancers
Bloch sizes tights by height and weight, not just age. Always check the size chart on the product page before ordering. A child who is tall for their age will usually need to size up. Adults sizing between two options should go up if they prefer a relaxed waistband, or stay in the smaller size for a firmer hold during high-movement classes. Our full sizing breakdown is covered in detail in our Bloch dancewear sizing and buying guide, which applies equally to NZ orders.
Colour Selection
Most dance schools in New Zealand specify a uniform tight colour. Bloch stocks convertible tights in ballet pink, theatrical pink, suntan, black, and white. If your school specifies a particular shade, check the product description carefully. Theatrical pink is deeper and warmer than ballet pink, and the difference shows clearly under stage lighting.
Jazz Essentials to Add to Your Order
If you are already ordering convertible tights and a stitch kit, it makes sense to complete your jazz kit in one shipment. Tracked shipping to New Zealand means combining items saves on delivery costs.
- Jazz shoes in the correct sole style for your studio floor (split-sole for most contemporary-influenced jazz, full-sole for beginners building arch support)
- A seamless crop or fitted camisole leotard that stays tucked during floor work
- Dance shorts or jazz pants for rehearsals where tights alone are not required
- A small mesh bag to keep stitch kits, spare pins, and elastics organised in your dance bag
For a broader look at what Bloch offers across all these categories, including shoes and accessories, browse the full Bloch range at Total Dance. Everything is priced in AUD and converts clearly at checkout for NZ customers.
Shipping Bloch Products to New Zealand
Orders ship from our Australian warehouse with tracking included. NZ delivery typically takes five to ten business days. Express options are available at checkout. Duties and taxes may apply on arrival depending on order value. Check the New Zealand Customs Service guidelines if you are ordering a large combined order for a dance school or group.
If you are unsure which products your school requires, ask your teacher before placing your order. Most studios have a specific tight shade, shoe style, and sole type listed in their uniform guide. Getting those details right before ordering avoids the cost and delay of returns.
Caring for Convertible Tights Once Stitched
Once you have used the stitch kit to secure the foot opening, the stitched section needs a little care in the wash. Turn tights inside out before washing. Use a cold gentle cycle or hand wash. Avoid the dryer entirely. The stitched fold can loosen with heat, and the microfibre fabric pills faster with high-heat drying. Lay flat or hang to dry between classes.
A well-cared-for pair of Bloch convertible tights lasts a full school term with regular use. Replacing them at the start of each year keeps the fit consistent and the fabric performing as it should.
For more guidance on building a complete Bloch kit for your dancer, read our article on where to find Bloch dancewear in Australia and online. It covers stockist information, what to expect from each product category, and how to order with confidence for both Australian and New Zealand dancers.
