I have been asked to make a cake featuring ballet pointe shoes and I was wondering what medium to use (fondant, gumpaste, 50/50) and if there is a template that can help me with this request.

Definitely not fondant alone...you'll need to add gumpaste, or what I prefer, tylose powder.

Here's a thread with great info and a template: http://cakecentral.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=27303&highlight=ballet+shoes+template

thank you for the info. where do you get tylose powder? The cake is due Nov. 4

I get mine on-line...I like to add a jar, even if I don't need it, to any order I place anywhere.

You should compare shipping prices for the best deal...the jar doesn't weigh anything at all, so the charge can be shocking!