Instructions for the Duc_ Tape Purse:
This pattern is best done on a plastic folding table or large
surface that tape can be adhered to and then removed easily and cleanly.
Decide on the width of the purse you wish to make. Mark on table (or use
removable tape to mark). Decide on the height of the purse and multiply
it by two. Add to this amount the depth of the purse and you have the
length necessary to make the purse. Begin taping down long strips of
tape that extend longer than this length (trimming can be done later).
Layer strip after strip onto previous layer allowing for 1/2 width
overlap each time. This helps to strenghten the bag. Continue until the
desired width is reached in double thickness of the duc_ tape. Now pull
the tape off the table and turn it over. Tape the glue side over with
the desired inside color of tape until completely covered. Using a pen
mark the area of the tape that will be the bottom of the bag. (Draw
lines where it will fold to come up the sides.) Using the inside bag
color layer tape across this area perpendicular to the previous tape and
long enough on each side to match the height of the purse plus a little
more. Have the tape over lap the area by half a tape's width on each
side. This overlap will be used to connect the pieces when then are
folded up into position. Turn the whole piece over and tape the outside
with the outside color without covering the 1/2 tape width overlap. Cut
at the "base" only the 1/2 width of the overlapping tape that is
for connecting when folded up. Now fold the purse at the bottom edge
folds that you previously planned for and when bringing up the short
sides, attach the 1/2 duc_ tape width to the side of the front and back
sides. Using two additional pieces of long tape reinforce the edges of
the front to sides by tapeing 1/2 on the front and 1/2 on the back all
the way down the side, across the bottom and up the other side. This
will happen twice. You now have the shell of the purse. Add tape around
the top edge of the purse to finish off the main piece. Add straps to
the purse by taping around the purse and up to the desired length of the
straps. Using a long piece that wraps around the purse is the strongest.
The example is of a braided strap that was done with three pieces, each
folded in on themselves and then braided. One of the pieces was taped to
the bag originally and then brought up to braid for stablility (a bit
tricky and easier with help). Decorate and enjoy!