How to Install a Ballet Bar

A ballet bar installed on a wall

A ballet barre (or bar) is an essential piece of equipment for serious dancers. The bars are placed in front of or across from mirrors so dancers can see themselves practice and correct and adjust their bodies. Ballet bars are typically positioned about 3 feet from the ground and should be at least 3 feet long.

Things You'll Need

• Ballet bar or dowling 2 inches in diameter and 3 feet long
• Brackets (many pre-made ballet bars come with their own, or you can use metal closet brackets)
• Screws
• Wall anchors (optional; needed only if you install the bar where there are no wall studs)
• Stud finder
• Level
• Drill
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Measure 3 feet (36 inches) from the floor and mark the height with a pencil in at least three places on the wall where you will install the bar.

2. Use the level to make sure all three marks are perfectly horizontal.

3. 

   Locate wall studs using the stud finder. Place the brackets on at least one stud and mark where the screws will go. If there are no studs available to use, just mark the location of the bracket screws.

4. Drill into the screw marks you made and install the wall anchors if you need them.

5. Screw in the brackets using the drill and the screws.

6. 

   Place the bar across the brackets or through the bracket rings and and screw it onto the brackets. Test all of the screws to make sure they are tight and flat.

Tips & Warnings

• Measure carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves when using the drill.

Resources

• Basic ballet bar exercises