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Position:Home>Dancing> What type of 4x4 piece of wood would you buy for tap dancing if you could not byQuestion:A piece of plywood cut into a 4' by 4' section is usually sufficient. Usually the thicker the board the better. Keep in mind that thicker pieces of plywood can be much heavier than thinner ones (though they are less likely to warp from use). Also remember that no matter how thick the plywood is it won't be sprung, so it won't do anything to protect your joints when laid over concrete or any other firm surface. Don't give up on the dance mats yet, they are not all "uber-expensive". Visit http//:www.JubileeDanceFloor.com They have a portable dance floor/mat that is sprung that would be perfect for practicing. The best part is, it's not very expensive. It's made of a polymer sold in 2' x 2' sections that attach to one another - flush - using industrial strength velcro. The boards are $35 each. They are durable and strike a great balance between being lightweight, cost-efffective, and protective of your joints. I promise I don't work for them, I just love their product. Another option is the Portable Tap Board sold at http://www.Stagestep.com. It's heavier and a bit more expensive but the sound it creates is wonderful! It's about $75 + shipping and it lasts for years. (I am dancing on one of these in YouTube clips, just search my name to see and hear it). I hope that helps! Terrence Taps The Tap Dance Blog http://www.tapdanceman.com/blog Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: A piece of plywood cut into a 4' by 4' section is usually sufficient. Usually the thicker the board the better. Keep in mind that thicker pieces of plywood can be much heavier than thinner ones (though they are less likely to warp from use). Also remember that no matter how thick the plywood is it won't be sprung, so it won't do anything to protect your joints when laid over concrete or any other firm surface. Don't give up on the dance mats yet, they are not all "uber-expensive". Visit http//:www.JubileeDanceFloor.com They have a portable dance floor/mat that is sprung that would be perfect for practicing. The best part is, it's not very expensive. It's made of a polymer sold in 2' x 2' sections that attach to one another - flush - using industrial strength velcro. The boards are $35 each. They are durable and strike a great balance between being lightweight, cost-efffective, and protective of your joints. I promise I don't work for them, I just love their product. Another option is the Portable Tap Board sold at http://www.Stagestep.com. It's heavier and a bit more expensive but the sound it creates is wonderful! It's about $75 + shipping and it lasts for years. (I am dancing on one of these in YouTube clips, just search my name to see and hear it). I hope that helps! Terrence Taps The Tap Dance Blog http://www.tapdanceman.com/blog Anything, really... Make sure it's thick. I'd go for oak, probably - it's usually pretty sturdy. Then again, plywood would probably work just as well. Up to you. =) ~Kate |