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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.