Duct Tape Engineer: The Book of Big, Bigger, and Epic Duct Tape Projects

by Lance Akiyama

Overview

Duct Tape Engineer: The Book of Big, Bigger, and Epic Duct Tape Projects shows you how to create the most enjoyable and impressive projects you’ve ever made—and they all start with a simple strip of duct tape. Build furniture, bags, outdoor items and more using simple tools and materials, with no special engineering skills needed.  

Start with duct tape basics that will aid in assembly: Learn cutting and tearing methods and taping techniques (yes, there’s more to it than slapping it down). Discover how to make sturdy duct tape sheets that can be cut and shaped. Using easily accessible tools and supplies like a utility knife and heavy-duty cardboard boxes, try your hand at making a desk and desk chair. Grab some foam and make a backpack, or create a custom hammock. Build a geodesic dome, and go truly epic with a giant pyramid catapult.

Every project includes step-by-step instructions and clear diagrams and photos. Don’t miss Lance Akiyama’s tips and suggestions for supplies, project variations, and material substitutions. Follow the solid construction techniques and you’ll ensure that these DIY projects will become favorite classroom activities and family projects.

Among the projects are:
 

• A lightweight bed frame and full-size dresser with working drawers
• Outdoor pieces like a hammock and garden swing
• A heavy-duty toolbox with pockets galore, and a stylish two-color messenger bag
• Ballistics, including a slingshot
• A kayak!

These projects are real, they work, and are super fun. Roll up your sleeves and let the engineering begin!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781631591303
Publisher:	Rockport Publishers
Publication date:	02/01/2017
Series:	Engineer Series
Pages:	160
Product dimensions:	8.50(w) x 9.90(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

Lance Akiyama is the author of four books in Rockport's Engineer series: Rubber Band Engineer; Duct Tape Engineer; Launchers, Lobbers, and Rockets Engineer; and The Zoom, Fly, Bolt, Blast STEAM Handbook. Lance is the Science Curriculum Manager for Galileo Learning (STEAM camps for Pre-K to 8th grade), for which he designs STEAM-based lessons and projects for K–8 students. He has been developing hands-on engineering projects for kids since 2011 and working in education since 2006. He lives in the San Francisco Bay area.

Table of Contents

Big, Bigger, and Epic: Introduction 8

The Basics 10

Ripping and Cutting 12

Recommended Tools 13

Taping Techniques 14

How to Make a Duct Tape Sheet 16

1 Furniture 18

Desk Chair 20

Desk 28

Dresser 36

Bed Frame 44

2 Everyday Essentials 50

BackPack 52

Heavy-Duty ToolBox 64

Messenger Bag 72

3 Backyard 82

Hammock 84

Geodesic Dome 92

Garden Swing 102

Kayak 116

4 Ballistics 128

Giant Pyramid Catapult 130

Giant Slingshot 140

Rocket Launcher 148

Material Sources 158

Acknowledgments 159

About the Author 159

Editorial Reviews

04/15/2017
Duct tape has infinite possibilities. Akiyama, author of the very cool Rubber Band Engineer, pushes the limits of the medium with this collection of projects. While there are some predictable items, such as the backpack and satchel, the reinforced cardboard furniture designs are unexpected, as are the geodesic dome, garden swing, and kayak. The projects are well organized, with materials and tool lists, cutting measurements, and step-by-step instructions. VERDICT This volume will have great appeal to young adults and teens. And while the durability of cardboard and duct tape furniture may be questionable, it certainly is unique. Strongly recommended.

Library Journal