How to Make a Backpack With Duct Tape

green insulation tape image by green308 from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

The duct tape fashion fad was most certainly kicked off by Tim Nyberg and Jim Berg, known as "The Duct Tape Guys" when they got the idea to write a book about the many uses of duct tape in 1993. Duct tape is not just extremely sticky, but extremely durable, lending itself to many creative uses beyond patching your heating ducts. Duct tape can be formed into "fabric" and then taped into many items like wallets, clothes and backpacks.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

One roll Duct tape
Magnet snaps
Measuring tape
Scissors (optional)
Stapler

Step 1

Determine the size of backpack you wish to create. You can measure a bag you already own, or measure a pile of things you need to carry. Duct tape will allow you to build a custom bag of any size. You'll need to create five panels: a back panel with flap, a front panel, a bottom and two sides. You will also need straps and extra panels for any desired pockets.

Step 2

Assemble duct tape panels. For example, to build a panel that is 15 inches by 10 inches, you will start with a 15 inch piece of duct tape. Place it on your work surface sticky side up. Place another 15 inch piece of duct tape on the first--sticky side up--overlapping by a half inch. Continue placing strips of duct tape sticky side up until you have a panel 15 inches by 10 inches (or whatever size you need). Next place 10 inch strips of duct tape going across the 15 inches strips, sticky side down. Overlap the 10 inch strips by a half inch. Trim any ragged edges of the panel when done. Repeat this process for each panel of the backpack (back with flap, front, bottom and sides).

Step 3

Create two straps, at least 24 inches in length, by placing two pieces of duct tape sticky sides together.

Step 4

Assemble the bag. Lay the side panels on either side of the back panel, with the bottom edges lined up. Tape together. Trim tops of side panels if they are uneven. Lay the front panel next to one of the side panels and tape together. Fold into a box shape and tape the bottom panel onto the bag.

Step 5

Add straps by taping them to the back of the backpack. The straps should form a "C" shape on the bag so the strap lays on your shoulder comfortably. Reinforce with staples and cover with more duct tape.

Step 6

Attach magnet snaps to the flap to hold the bag closed. Follow directions on snap package.

Step 7

Add any pockets that you need. You can make small panels and tape them to the outside or inside of the bag for pencils, a water bottle or a cell phone.

Tips & Warnings

Magnet snaps are available at fabric and craft stores.

Resources

Article Written By Denise Bertacchi

Denise Bertacchi is a freelance writer with a degree in journalism from Southeast Missouri State University. She is a St. Louis suburbanite who has written for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Boys' Life, Wisconsin Trails, and Missouri Life.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...