How to Wrap a Gift in Duct Tape

This article will teach you how to make duct tape wrapping paper.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• X-acto Knife, Duct Tape (various colors), Paper Towel, Safe Cutting Surface, Scissors

1. Using the paper towel measure the amount you will need to cover the gift. If the paper towel is not wide enough as is add squares (the tape will create a cohesive surface, the paper towel is only used as a guide.).

2. Once you know how much you will need to cover the gift begin adding duct tape lengthwise to the paper towel (on both sides). Use whichever color you'd like. You can even use more than one to create stripes. I recommend overlapping the duct tape slightly (as not doing so will cause a rip where there isn't any tape. On the other side to further reinforce it put the tape where the other 2 meet. This will also ensure the over lap isn't too thick.

3. Once it is covered trim the edges. Doing this will make a more uniformed sheet.

4. Begin a normal wrapping process. While it is usually recommended that you fold wrapping paper instead of cutting, I recommend cutting the duct tape so that it doesn't bulk up too much. Use duct tape to seal. It's easier to open than it looks. Duct tape comes off duct tape easily.

5. To decorate:
   I made stencils of hearts and used them as a guide to make the ones in the picture.
   
   I used a clear tape to stick the stencil over the duct tape which I put on a self healing cutting mat. If you do not own one, you can use a magazine with duct tape as a surface (so your working tape will not stick to the magazine). I recommend a different color (to see the difference easily).
   
   Add anywhere you'd like these stickers to appear on the gift.

6. The Bow"
   
   I folded duct tape on itself and cut it down.
   
   I connected them with small duct tape where I was planning on putting the bow.
   
   I made the bow by making a large loop.
   
   I cut a thin strip of duct tape to make the center part of the bow. I folded it in half and cut the center at the top and bottom so I could stick it onto itself. I used this to secure the bow on the strips.

Tips & Warnings

• I recommend this technique for smaller gifts.
• If the Paper Towel is 2-ply, Remove one ply and use the thinner of the two.
• using a scissor or x-acto kife to cut the duct tape will give you more control & create cleaner edges.
• Be careful when using any sharp objects

[janica]

on 5/19/2009 so cute =] 5* check out my article on a paper gift box..