Introduction: How to Make Babies (out of Tape)

By Mr. R. Photography

As a middle school teacher, I try really hard to have unique, fun, and creative lessons.  I'm a big believer in having cool projects.  That way no one in the class gets bored.  That includes me.  

So if you're into making babies (out of tape) then check out this instructable.  

Step 1: Get Supplies

First you'll need to go buy some packaging tape.  I teach big classes so I order it from northerntool.com It comes in boxes of 36 rolls and 1 box of 36 rolls is around $50.  Per roll that's pretty cheap.  If you just want to buy a few rolls, you can probably make a whole large body with 2-3 rolls of tape.  A single roll of packaging tape is around $3 give or take.  

Step 2: Wrap Sticky Side Out

Guess what? The sticky side sticks to whatever you put it on.  So start by wrapping your baby or any object with the tape sticky side out first.  Just one thorough layer will do. 

Step 3: Wrap Sticky Side Down

After you're finished wrapping it sticky side up/out, then simply twist your roll of tape over and begin wrapping it sticky side down.  While you are doing this, you can "sculpt" it by squishing the layers together.  Sometimes this will give you a smoother looking and stronger tape baby when finished.  

Step 4: Slice It Off

Once you've wrapped the baby up enough, you are ready to slice off the tape.  I suggest using a wrapping paper slicer.  These are perfect for the job and the blade is safely hidden within the slicer.  An x acto will work but you'd have to be very careful.  I always tell my students to get a nice clean slice because they'll need to tape that seem after they peel off the "shell" of tape.  A clean cut is easier to repair.  

Step 5: Re Tape the Seams

Now that you've sliced off the "shell" of tape, you are ready to repair your seams.  Pretty self explanatory.  Just take some more of the packaging tape and fix the places you sliced off.  The tape is clear so you won't notice any of the seams if you do it well.  

Step 6: Proudly Display

Now that you've made some babies (out of tape), you should proudly display them.  I think it's fun to float them from the ceiling but you can do what you like.  The artist we studied was Mark Jenkins.  Google it and check him out.  He creates some really interesting street art as well as gallery pieces. Have fun and thanks for looking.