The ideal height of the barre is at the dancer’s waist level, or approximately 32-46” from the floor. [1] X Research source Remember that the barre itself will sit on top of your brackets, so the actual height of the barre could be a few inches above your mark for where the bracket will go. You may want to check first to find the placement of studs in your wall by using an electronic stud finder or finding studs based on wall outlets, nails in existing trim, or measuring in 16” increments from the wall. [2] X Research source
4’ barre: 2 brackets spaced 32" apart (8" overhang) 6’ barre: 2 brackets spaced 48" apart (12" overhang) 8’ barre: 2 brackets spaced 64" apart (16" overhang) 10’ barre: 2 brackets spaced 80" apart (20" overhang) 14’ barre: 3 brackets, 1 centered with 64" space on each side (20" overhang) 16’ barre: 3 brackets, 1 centered with 80" space on each side (16" overhang)[3] X Research source
The number of screws will depend on the type and size of your brackets, but you will need enough to attach each one to the wall as well as another for each bracket to attach the dowel.
You can also mark where to pre-drill holes by laying the dowel on the brackets and marking where you will need to screw through them and into the dowel. Do this by looking up at the underside of the barre.
You can also choose to attach the dowel to the brackets first, then mount the whole apparatus onto the wall. Just make sure you have helpers to hold the whole thing level and in place. [5] X Research source
Note that these pieces will make a single barre. If you want to make a double barre with two different heights, you will need to have four different sections of pipe and two extra cross joints to make the posts, which will total to your desired height. The ideal height of the barre is at the dancer’s waist level, or approximately 32-46” from the floor. [6] X Research source
Some of the length will be absorbed by the joints used to assemble the barre, so you might want to add a few inches to your length before cutting. Remember that you’ll need two lengths if you’re making a double barre at two different heights.
Remember that if you’re making a double barre, you’ll need two extra cross joint pieces.
For a single bar, attach your PVC or wooden dowel piece to the top of your posts with elbow joints at each end. For a double barre, attach the PVC or wooden dowel for your lower bar to your posts with cross pieces. Then place the second piece of post into the cross pieces on both sides. Add the top bar using two elbow joints.
Cut pieces of foam in squares or circles that will fit the bottom of the elbow joints. It doesn’t matter if the foam overlaps the edges slightly, as it will offer more protection. You can use PVC glue to affix the foam to the PVC, or buy self-adhesive foam sheets. [8] X Research source
