Your Affordable DIY Dance Space

by Rachel Minnie

It’s easier and more affordable than ever to create a dance practice space at home. All you need is a few supplies - some of which you may already have - and a small, empty space. Follow the instructions below, and then throw on those leotards and tights and get practicing!

Supplies:

2” dowel rod

handrail brackets

foam tiles or yoga mats

plywood sheet

laminate floor tiles

heavy duty glue, like Liquid Nails

drill & tape measurer

peel and stick mirror (optional, but fun)

1. Apply the peel and stick mirror to the wall where you want the dance space to be. You can use any large mirror you already have, but I prefer these shatterproof, peel and stick mirrors available in a variety of sizes. They can be cut easily with scissors to fit your space.
2. To make the ballet barre, cut the dowel rod (or ask them to cut it at the store) to your desired length.
3. Use the drill to attach the handrail brackets on each side of the mirror securely to the wall, making sure they are level. Next, attach the rod to the handrail brackets with the included screws. The height of the barre should be around 40-42”, which is the standard height. You can always install an additional lower barre, as desired.
4. To make the floor, start with your sheet of plywood and cut it (or ask them to cut it at the store) to your desired size. A 4’ by 4’ sheet runs around $8.
5. Use the Liquid Nails to attach the foam floor tiles or yoga mats to one side. This will be the bottom.
6. Cover the top in any kind of laminate flooring. Again, I like the peel and stick variety that can be easily applied and trimmed to fit, but really any laminate flooring and heavy duty glue will work, even the extra planks your friend has in her garage.
7. Place the floor in front of the mirror and ballet barre and don your leotard!
8. Feel proud that you are so handy.