How to Tape a Hula Hoop

Video transcript

One of the most important skills in hoop making is taping a hoop. Decorative tape is the most exciting part of crafting your own hoop. We sell many varieties, ranging from glitter to mirror, holographic glitter, and prism, to the largest range of color-shifting tapes available. All of our decorative tapes have a peel-off paper backing and come in one-inch or 3/4-inch widths.

Let's talk about spiraling with decorative tape. When you're taping, make sure you're using an adequate amount of tension as you lay the tape onto the tube — this helps it lay flat without wrinkles or bubbles. We also recommend using the fingers of your opposite hand to smooth the tape as it's laid down; use your thumb on one side and your fingers on the other to smooth both edges simultaneously. Allow the paper backing to collect at the bottom of the hoop — you can cut it off every few feet, or let it remain in one continuous piece.

While a hoopmaker's goal is to tape the entire hoop in one continuous piece, it's okay to work with two- to three-foot lengths while practicing your technique until you become more comfortable. Remember that Hoopologie carries many types of decorative tape, and not all tapes apply the same way. Some require more tension than others, some are thinner and harder to lay down without wrinkles, and some stretch while others don't. Work with all the different types and adapt your technique to each tape's properties. A little practice goes a long way — have patience with yourself.