Place the shoe in front of the person who is learning to tie. Have the learner to pull up both laces and then cross one over the other in the form of a X. Pull one end of the lace under the gap, and pull to tighten. The learner now has a basic starter knot.
Create a loop with one side of the lace, and grasp it firmly with one hand. Wrap the other lace around the loop that was just made. Make sure that the wrap ends in the front of the lace.
Make a loop with the wrapped lace, and push it through a gap in the wrap. Pull both laces tight to make a bow.
Perform each step as many times as necessary in order to learn the art of tying shoelaces. When teaching, always be positive to avoid discouragement. If teaching a child, small rewards may be given for achievements.