(no subject)

[violet-helix.livejournal.com]

In an unprecedented bout of craftiness, I've decided to try my hand at making a collapsible hula hoop this weekend. I know where to look for all of the components except for bulk bungee. Does anyone have any suggestions? I have a car, so travel is not a problem, but would prefer to buy locally, if possible.

Comments

[srakkt.livejournal.com]

Tags, while usually stocked with an interesting variety of materials, will fail you here. Probably you'll want a Boat U.S. or similar. I don't know that you'll be able to source this locally.

[rmd.livejournal.com]

there's a west marine up at the exit on 128 just south of the 93/95 interchange in woburn. also, rei might have bulk shock cord.

[swingchickie.livejournal.com]

you should be able to get it at any home depot-y type place, or even a sporting goods store. we made one a couple of years ago that i bring on vacations etc, it's super convenient... just make sure you stretch the bungee reeeeally tight, or your connector points will spread and pinch you when you hoop hard. ouch!

[lindau-nemesis.livejournal.com]

There is a much less labor intensive design, that folds on itself so it becomes half the diameter that it would normally be. It does not come apart, but it folds up quite small.

All you need is the tubing, two connectors that fit it, a pot of water on the stove, and knowledge of how to fold it :)
Then tape of course.

You can PM me if you want more instructions, I'd need to find pictures of how to fold it...

[sungold123.livejournal.com]

I didn't realize there were so many hoopers on here, how wonderful!!! I agree that this way (using the swivel connectors) is probably easier than the bungees and holds up better.

I make my collapsibles in a 3rd way, using the push button connectors - so it actually comes completely apart in 5 or 6 pieces (however many you want actually) - I like this way b/c it's super portable (fits in my suitcase) but you have to buy these:
http://www.mcmaster.com/#92988a650/=5ziejh
And you have to use a Dremel to file down the connectors so it's a little more complicated... but if anyone is interested in learning, PM me and I can send along my instructions!!

[violet-helix.livejournal.com]

Thanks, but I've already seen this design. I may play with this at some point, but I really like the separating design and want to try this as my first project.

[lindau-nemesis.livejournal.com]

I'm curious to hear how it turns out!
The bungee/separating ones I've seen have not fared well over time (except if they use the button connectors as the above poster mentions, or more complicated attachments). However, I've only personally seen the design done as a fire hoop which are subject to much more force than regular hoops, so it could totally just be that.

[violet-helix.livejournal.com]

Thanks everyone! I'll be making some phone calls this afternoon, now that I have an idea of where to start.

[icecreamempress.livejournal.com]

If you hadn't thought about trying Roach's, the camping/gun store in Porter Square, here's their number:

617-876-5816.