Collapsible Hula Hoop

Collapsible Hula Hoop
Most collapsible hoop designs I've seen feature removable sections that snap back together with the help of elastic straps.  This Instructable features a more sexy folded infinity method, reducing the hoop to two smaller circles that can be worn across the body.  I like this design for taking my hoop on public transit to hoop get-togethers in the city.
 
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Step 1Tools and Supplies

Tools and Supplies
Supplies:
* polytubing (see Notes on Polytubing, below)
* connectors, 2 per hoop (3/4 inch connectors for 3/4inch tubing, 1inch connectors for 1inch tubing)
* decorative tape (electrical tape works great and is available in a variety of colors)

Tools:
* utility knife
* hack saw or ratcheting pvc pipe cutter
* heat gun or hair dryer

Notes on Polytubing:
* 3/4 inch 100psi or 160psi, or 1inch 100psi can all be used to make hoops.  For beginners, 3/4 inch 160psi seems to work well.
* 1inch 160psi tubing is also available, but will make a very heavy hula hoop.
* Polytubing is commonly sold in 100ft rolls.  This is enough for approx. 8 hula hoops.
* Tubing can be hard to find in some areas. It is mainly used for lawn sprinkler systems. Call around to big-box hardware and irrigation supply stores to save time and gas.


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11 comments
Nov 9, 2011. 5:12 AMjbrecken says:
If you put a marble inside the tube to make the "shoop shoop" sound, would it get hung up on the connectors?
Nov 9, 2011. 8:18 AMRobot Lover says:
I would imagine that if you used a small enough marble it would work.
Jul 29, 2010. 9:09 AMccbabyfactory says:
This is awesome. thanks so much for sharing. i really like this option. kelli
Jun 16, 2010. 12:32 AMmonkey227 says:
having use this type of collapsing hoop in the past, i wanted to warn that the hoop does not stay circular very well when your actually hooping with it, it kinda turns in to a oval. if your not worried about that then this is a great design. Its just not so great if your need a very circular look, for say isolation/manipulation Just my two cents for experience. I'm not criticizing the author or the tutorial
Feb 19, 2010. 9:06 AManghasch says:
I always wanted to learn! I also LOVE making things myself.  I am very excited I will have plenty to share as well!!!
Feb 5, 2010. 1:12 PMbodyhoops says:
(removed by author or community request)
Feb 7, 2010. 9:09 AMskidude28 says:
Go away, troll.
Feb 6, 2010. 2:49 PMcascahawk says:
Acording to you site you have a patent pending. Second this man is not selling or making any profit.
Check you laws.
Feb 6, 2010. 5:33 AMpaganwonder says:
This site is for people who enjoy making things for themselves- not necessarily to save money or take business from vendors but for the pure joy of building things with our own hands.  There aren't many of us left in the world today so I doubt we will impact your bottom line in a meaningful way.

Besides, Summation didn't offer to sell me anything.
Feb 6, 2010. 2:50 PMcascahawk says:
beautiful, we ar going to make 10 of them for our group as they are so compact. Thanks and great instrictable.
Will post pics after tommorows build.
Feb 5, 2010. 2:30 PMDasBus says:
 This is a DIY project, not for selling.

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Author:summation(Thing-A-Day Blog)
Summation is a mathematician/cartographer in Seattle enjoying outfitting her friends in fuzzy and festive attire. She has hundreds of project ideas and will never have fewer than 15 going at once. Ch...
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