When it comes to DIY assistive technology projects, creativity is key. But even the most brilliant design needs the right tools to come to life. Simple rolls of tape, often overlooked yet essential for crafting functional solutions, are the feature of this post. From securing parts to creating textured grips, the 17 different tapes featured here offer unique properties to meet various assistive technology needs. So, let’s explore the sticky world of tapes to help you find the perfect roll for your next project!
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Rolls of assorted tapes for DIY assistive technology projectsWho is This Post for?
This post is for MacGyvers from all walks (or wheels) of life. You may be:
Amateur or professional assistive technology creators
Assistive Technology Professionals (ATP)
Caregivers
Occupational Therapy Practioners (OTPs), Physical Therapists, or Speech Therapists
Teachers
Special Educators
Orientation and Mobility Specialists
Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists
Ergonomics Specialists
Rehab Engineers
Adult Day Services Providers
Wheelchair Technicians
Disability Services Providers
Inclusion Services Providers
Anyone else interested in DIY Assistive Technology
6 Tape Tips
Consider factors like adhesion strength, surface compatibility, removability, and comfort before selecting your tape.
Determine if there are any skin sensitivities before applying tape next to or onto the skin.
Clean the desired surface prior to applying tape.
Invest in alcohol wipes or adhesive tape removers to help with tape removal and cleaning up tape residue.
Do a patch test on a small area before applying to the final project.
Keep your rolls of tape organized for easy access.
Avoid the messy pitfalls of DIY assistive technology projects by keeping your rolls organized15 Top Tapes for DIY Assistive Device Projects
1. Duct Tape for Handles, Lanyards, and More
Duct tape is a must-have tape for its versatility. It offers strong adhesion and works on multiple surfaces. Duct tape has no stretch and offers a smooth, shiny top surface. Remember, duct tape can leave sticky residue on surfaces, so use with caution. Try these duct tape uses:
Create strong, durable handles and universal cuffs. Check out our tutorial!
Make lanyards to prevent keys and other important items from dropping off a wheelchair or walker.
Use different Duck Tape colors and patterns and for person-first customization.
Duct tape handle added to a flash light
DIY cuff for a flashlight made out of duct tape
Duct tape flags for hex wrenches to adhere to the back of a wheelchair backrest for frequent hardware adjustments. Bright colored flags help prevent loss of the small wrenches.2. Gaffer Tape for Visual Aids, Guides, and More
Borrowed from the world of theater, gaffer tape boasts similar qualities to duct tape, but with a few key differences. Its fabric backing makes it smoother to interact with and leaves minimal residue upon removal. These features make it perfect for delicate surfaces or temporary applications.
Create visual aids on floors, steps, and perimeters to help with mobility. Its matte finish reduces glare, making it ideal for visual aids.
Create visual cues on mirrors to help with visual scanning during self-care tasks.
Make labels for orientation of assistive devices or to organize drawers, bins, and equipment.
3. Self-Adhering Bandage Wrap for Tactile Grip and Cushioning
Commonly used in sports medicine and nursing applications, self-adhering bandage tape is perfect for creating cushioned grips on tools, utensils, prosthetics, orthotics, and more. It’s comfortable to wear, conforms to body shapes, and comes in several colors for a personalized touch. A great choice is 3M Coban Self-Adherent Wrap. Coban contains natural rubber latex, so be mindful of any latex allergies. There is a latex-free version, too.
Add anywhere extra leverage is needed, like around screw-top lids.
Wrap several layers around writing utensils, silverware, or handles for built-up grip.
Charging end of an Apple charging cord built up with self-adhering bandage wrap4. Hook and Loop Tape Strips for Repositionable Assistive Technology Projects
The classic hook-and-loop system offers secure closure without permanent attachment, great for a large array of assistive technology uses. While VELCRO brand is the most recognized brand, there are other manufacturers like Uline and 3M as well.
Attach The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) cards to a low tech communication board or book.
Secure items like remotes and call buttons to wheelchair trays without worry of them sliding off.
Call button attached to a power wheelchair user’s tray with hook and loop.5. Double Sided Hook and Loop for Wheelchair Cords, Sensory Fidgets, Adapted Clothing, and More
For projects requiring easy on/off securement, double sided hook and loop like VELCRO Brand ONE-WRAP is your friend. Its versatility and reusability make it perfect for many projects.
Secure power wheelchair cords together.
Create adjustable straps or closures to adapt shoes and clothing.
Create sensory fidgets.
Double sided hook and loop forming finger loops around a lipstick tube. Self-adhering bandage wrap is used under the loops to prevent them from sliding.6. Heavy Duty Fastener Tapes
Key features of heavy-duty fastener tapes include strong adhesive backing with a tough interlocking interface to provide secure yet adjustable connections. Try VELCRO Brand Industrial Strength Strips or 3M Dual Lock Reclosable Fasteners.
Secure tablets, laptops, and other devices to wheelchair lap trays and device mounting systems.
Mount high-tech communication devices to walls or stands.
Secures cushions or padding to wheeled mobility devices.
Potential heavy-duty fastener use— secure foam supports for seating systems to prevent parts from shifting.7. Double-Sided Tape for Low-Tech Communication Device Securement, Securing Phone Cases, and More
Need to securely attach items without visible tape? Double-sided tape may be the perfect solution. Choose permanent or removable options depending on your project. Also choose between thin or padded options. Just remember, double-sided tape might not adhere well to rough or porous surfaces. Scotch Double-Sided Tape is an example.
Mount tactile dots for low vision orientation help.
Secure phone cases to mounts or stands for easier reaching.
8. Foam Tape for Gentle Padding and Supported Grip on Assistive Devices
Foam tape provides adhesion and cushioning, making it ideal for adding comfort, grip, or mounting to various surfaces. There are two main foam tape types: 1.) single sided designed for user interaction on the foam side and 2.) double sided used primarily for mounting. You can wrap single sided foam tape in layers for customized comfort levels. Here are a couple examples: Nexcare Absolute Waterproof Tape (single sided) and Scotch Mounting Tape (double sided).
Modify utensils to cushion the fingers and support grip.
Pad splints and braces at pressure points.
Line reacher or grabber jaws for better object control.
Mount objects to a sensory board with double sided foam tape.
9. Transpore Surgical or Nexcare Flexible Clear First Aid Tapes by 3M for Medical Assistive Device Uses and More
Transpore Surgical tape and Nexcare Flexible Clear First Aid Tape by 3M are transparent, hypoallergenic, and water-resistant with good adhesion to skin and tubing, making them ideal for securing dressings and medical devices comfortably and reliably. They are a good choice for light-hold assistive device use next to skin.
Make small finger loops to open small lids like on medication cassettes.
Secure small assistive devices (microswitches, EMG switches, cameras, etc.) next to the skin and onto eyeglasses.
Occlude lenses for vision therapy purposes.
Transpore tape uses10. Athletic Tape for DIY Handles and Equipment Repairs
Athletic tape, made of cotton or a blend of materials, is a versatile sports tape known for its supportive and stabilizing properties. Designed to adhere to the skin, it is commonly utilized to provide joint support and limit the range of motion.
Create strong, non-stretch loops and handles for any device.
Wrap several layers around for equipment or device repair.
11. Electrical Tape for Assistive Device Cord Management and More
Used by electricians and DIY enthusiasts, electrical tape is designed to provide electrical insulation and protection. Its stretchy and wrappable qualities also make it a must-have in every tool box.
Repair and fortify assistive device charging cords and power wheelchair or scooter electrical wiring.
Make modifications to touch screen styluses without interfering with the flow of conductive energy for capacitive touch screens.
12. Painter’s Tape for Visual Cues, Temporary Adhesion, and More
Painter’s tape is an inexpensive and valuable tool for DIY enthusiasts. Its low-tack nature makes it an ideal choice for temporary applications and repositioning.
Create visual cues or boundaries on surfaces like mirrors, walls, and mobility devices, aiding individuals with spatial awareness.
Temporarily affix assistive devices, low-tech communication devices, and adaptive tools to various surfaces, allowing for easily adjustable setups.
Mark out wheelchair and walker adjustments. .
13. Self-Fusing Silicone Tape on Handles, Tools, and More
Self-fusing silicone tape is a versatile and durable material that adheres to itself without the need for adhesive. This tape provides a strong and flexible bond, creating a waterproof, airtight seal with resistance to heat and cold. Try X-treme Tape or Duck Brand Wrap-Fix.
Provide grip and cushion on tools and handles, such as brooms and brushes.
Create non-slip surfaces on walkers and wheelchair parts like wheel locks and push canes.
Make waterproof repairs to shower chairs.
Silicone tape fork adaptation to improve grip14. Grip Tapes for Heavy Duty Traction on Stairs, Wheelchair Footplates, and More
Grips tapes offer increased traction with their rough surfaces. From stair treads to bathtub treads, they provide essential grip and safety in diverse applications.
Use stair tread tape like Gorilla Anti-Slip Tread Tape on wheelchair footplates to help anchor feet.
Use grip tape for adaptive athletes’ equipment like weights, rugby chairs, canoe paddles, and more. CatTongue Non-Abrasive Gription Roll or similar tapes have great potential.
Tread tape on wheelchair footrests. Note— user has an acquired ankle deformity, not a broken ankle.15. Anti-Slip Tapes to Prevent Sliding and Drops
Anti-slip tapes are similar to grip tapes in increasing traction, but their surfaces are tacky instead of rough. Sweaty palms and weak hands gain leverage and stability when anti-slip tapes are used. Dycem Super Grip Tape and Elastack Soft Tape are top choices.
Wrap around silverware to improve control and prevent drops.
Place under plates, makeup containers, artist palettes, and other objects to prevent sliding.
16. Moleskin Tape For Cushioning and Skin Protection
Moleskin tape is a soft, adhesive-backed material with a suede-like texture, designed to prevent friction-related skin issues.
Cushion pencils, silverware, and other objects for blister prevention.
Cushion splints and braces at friction points to protect the skin.
17. Thermoplastic Tape for Orthosis and Custom Grips and Fixes
Thermoplastic tapes are heat activated at 140-150 degrees, allowing them to conform around many objects and surfaces. When cooled, they make strong and durable braces, grips, and fixes.
Therapists and other people with specialized skills can use Orficast Thermoplastic Tape to create small finger braces, as well as finger knobs and loops for assistive device use.
Top Tapes Summary
These ideas are just a starting point! Explore different tapes, experiment with their properties, and don’t be afraid to get creative. When choosing tape, consider factors like adhesion strength, surface compatibility, removability, and comfort. Always do a patch test on a small area before applying to the final project. With the right tape and a dash of ingenuity, you can turn your DIT assistive device ideas into reality.
