How to Make a Hula-Hoop

Hula-hooping isn't just for children--it's a great workout and a lot of fun, too. You can even make your own hoop so you can customize it to the exact size you need. The great part about making your own hoop is that you can decorate it and make it unique. Follow these steps to learn how to make your own hoop.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Polyethylene plumbing tubing
• PVC cutter
• Beans
• Hair dryer
• PVC tubing connector
• Tape

1. Buy your supplies. You will need ¾-inch polyethylene plumbing tubing, ratcheting PVC cutter and a ¾-inch PVC tube connector. All of the supplies are available at your local hardware store.
2. Cut the tubing to your desired hoop size. The desired hoop size is somewhere between naval and shoulder height.
3. Add weight or noisemakers to your hoop if desired. You can add corn kernels or beans for noise; for added weight you can pour in some sand.
4. Soften the ends of the tubing with a hair dryer or hot water. After the tube is soft and pliable, slip one end of the PVC tubing firmly into the connector. Bend the tubing around and connect the hoop by placing the other end into the connector.
5. Decorate your hoop to fit your personality. You can make it all one color or candy cane striped with a wide variety of colorful tape. Wrap colorful tape around the pipe, leaving space in between wraps for the candy cane effect.
6. Make a few extra hoops so you can share with your friends or family. These custom hoops make inexpensive gifts and you can help other people discover the joy of hula-hooping.

Tips & Warnings

• You can add extra padding to your hoop by wrapping it in pipe insulation. This is very helpful if you have added weight to your hoop.