How to Make Tap Shoes

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By kittycooks
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tap shoes

Tap dancing was all the rage when I was a kid and to save money we made our own tap shoes with this simple technique. I was in love with Fred Astaire and of course I imagined I was Ginger in one of those gorgeous dresses, doing it all backwards, in heels! Read on to learn how easy it is to make your own tap shoes at home.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

a dressy pair of shoes that fit well
pkg of flat head thumbtacks
hammer

Step 1

Your tap shoes will look best if they are dressy looking and fit securely - you don't want them to slip off while you're cutting up the rug! Shoes that tie or strap on are best. Boots (cowboy or lace up), children's shoes, Men's dress shoes, women's pumps, and fancy dancing shoes can be converted into inexpensive tap shoes. They need a sturdy bottom - no ballet slippers and please leave athletic shoes for the gym!
Step 2

Turn the shoe over and hammer or press one flat head tack into the center of the toe area. Continue adding more to enhance tapping volume. Make sure the shoe you picked for your tap shoe has a sturdy sole and the tacks won't go through the insole.
Step 3

Now hammer three or more tacks on the heel of the shoe. The amount will depend on the style of your shoe and desired tapping volume for your tap shoe.
Step 4

Test your tap shoes by tapping them on a wooden table top as you work to find the right amount of tacks to add. Purchased tap shoes have the entire ball area and heel covered, but you can get a satisfying sound with less if desired. They will not compete with professional tap shoes, but, hey, it only cost you pennies!
Step 5

That's it! Tap shoes sound best on a wooden dance floor. Tap with your toe, with your heels, or flat footed for different sounds. Have fun with your new tap shoes!

Comments

joanhaines said

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on 6/9/2009 Love it! How easy and fun is this?

veryirie said

on 5/15/2009 I always wanted to do this, guess I could try now. Thanks for the tips. :)

toogie2 said

on 5/13/2009 Now I just need to learn how to move my ankles that fast.

Susang6 said

on 5/2/2009 Now I can see myself tap dancing while I clean the house, how fun! I use to tap dance as a kid, but have not done it for decades. I am going to tap my way across the floor...what a great way to work out! thanks for sharing!