Introduction: Water Proof Pouches
This duct tape water proof pouch is sealed by doubled zip-lock bags under a quick release snap. Webbing on the back side allows for attachment to your life vest. Window cleaner helps make it possible.
You’ll need:
Duct tape
Window cleaner
Scissors
Razor blade
Quick release snap
Reflective tape
Strait edge
Step 1: Set Up
Find two zip lock bags in the size you want to use. I used 1 quart bags. Cut the bottom off of one of the bags. Place the intact bag into the bottomless bag. Adjust the bags so the zip locks are one above the other. The zip lock of the intact bag should be on bottom. See the pictures.
Spray your flat surface with window cleaner. Place the doubled bags on the wet surface and spray that as well. The window cleaner will give you some freedom in placing the tape. Don’t worry it will dry without effecting the performance of the tape.
Step 2: Duct Tape Strips
Cut a strip of duct tape long enough to cover the bag width wise. Lay it over the bag and squeegee out any air bubbles and excess fluid. I’m using a bondo plastic spatula but a credit card works well too.
Continue overlapping strips until the entire bag is covered. Next, apply a layer of strips vertically. When that’s done flip it over and do the same to the other side.
Apply cleaner as needed to keep it from sticking before you want it to.
Step 3: Trim
Using a razor blade along a strait edge remove the excess tape on the sides. Make sure to leave about a ¼ inch border around the zip-lock bag. You can overlay a third bag to help guide you.
Apply tape to the bottom and sides to cover the seams exposed from trimming. Also apply a single horizontal strip of tape over the zip-lock area to aid in pressing the zip-lock closed.
Wipe off any remaining window cleaner from the exterior of the pouch. Place a couple paper towels in it and let it dry over night. In the mean time make the adjusting strap.
Step 4: Make the Adjusting Strap
Roll out a strip of tape long enough to wrap around the pouch twice. Generously spray it with cleaner and fold it in half. Align the edges before you squeegee out air bubbles and excess fluid.
Cut a strip from the tape in a width that corresponds to your quick release snap. I have a 1” snap so I cut a 1” strip.
Feed the strip through the snap and secure one of the free ends by wrapping it with tape. Adhere the strap with a couple tape strips on the back side.
Step 5: Make the Webbing Loops
Measure out two sections of tape 5” long. Loop the tape around and attaché it to itself. Keep the sticky side out.
Place both loops on the back side of the pouch and press them flat. Lay anther strip of tape over the loops to cover the exposed adhesive.
For looks, use scissors to round off the corners on the flap. You can also throw on some reflective tape.
Step 6: Place It
Undo one of the straps on your life vest. Run the strap through the back webbing of the pouch. Re-do the strap and your set. Now your secret map to the national treasure will stay dry.
Thanks for reading.
First Prize in the
The Great Outdoors Duct Tape Contest
24 Comments
11 years ago on Introduction
I bow to thee, master of ductigami. =D
12 years ago on Introduction
I made one and it is awesome! Love taking it kayaking to hold my phone and other items. Instead of the clip I used Velcro as that is what I had avalible and it worked nicely! Thank you for the great idea!
12 years ago on Introduction
Still waiting to see if you won!
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
Fingers Crossed! =).
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
You won! Congrats!
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
I'm freaking out over here=). Thanks.
12 years ago on Introduction
Great project! I'll definitely be making one or lots of these for canoe trips. Thanks for the detailed walk through.
12 years ago on Introduction
wow where did you get 8x11 duct tape?
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
wHEN YOU ARE TAPING THE BACK SIDE ARE YOU MAKING THAT LONGER SO THAT IT FOLDS OVER THE FRONT? I can not tell from the pics and you do not mention that
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
This roll is the common size they sell at the Home Depot.
12 years ago on Introduction
what if someone steals your vest? then your national treasure map will be gone then your lost...hahahaha
I do like this btw, might work for something else, can't think of what else at the moment.
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
I'm thinking of using this to make an inexpensive "webbing" tactical vest / leg bag of sorts. For my needs, I would add in some reflective strips too.
12 years ago on Step 2
Ok, how the heck did you learn that trick with the window cleaner? That is GENIUS!
Reply 12 years ago on Step 2
I used to work as a mechanic for a construction company. We would use window cleaner to apply large sticker logos on the doors of the company vehicles.
With out the "application fluid" we ran the risk of creasing or tearing the sticker while trying to put it in place.
The same kind of idea is used for tail light tinting.
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
...and window tinting.
Reply 12 years ago on Step 2
Ahhh, ok, that makes sense!! I've often wondered about those auto decals! It's always seemed like they would be super-easy to mess up, especially if you're as clumsy as I aml
12 years ago on Introduction
NICELY done!!!
12 years ago on Introduction
This is one of the best looking duct tape projects I have seen.
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
Cool Thanks!
12 years ago on Introduction
Now this is a cool idea! Makes me want to make this for some other type of application which if I ever find my camera I will make some things for camping. My youngest daughter and I are giong camping in a few weeks, might be just the thing to do on the downtime before bed. Can't believe I forgot about the windex trick. Once again thanks for the insperation Mrballeng!