If you read "First Time User: Before You Apply," you should be ready to apply for the first time! In this case, we're going to go over packing with TransTape for the first time. We covered how to pack in the past, but this time we're going to focus on key tips for first time users. If you need a detailed step by step, check out "Packing With TransTape."
Welcome!
We meet again.
If you've stumbled upon this post, I'm going to assume you're looking for a new way to pack that doesn't involve expensive boxers or harnesses.
Or maybe you're just looking to learn more about TransTape.
No matter why you're here, happy to have ya!
If this is your first time applying TransTape or you haven't read the last post about preparing to tape, I would recommend reading these posts first to get a more detailed and in depth explanation of taping.
This post is more for helpful tips and things to keep in mind when you go to pack for the first time, not a how-to guide.
But before we get into it, there may be some readers who aren't entirely sure what packing is
And that's okay.
Packing is when a person uses padding or a prosthetic, which may or may not be phallic, to create a bulge in the front of their underwear and/or pants. Many people, myself included, pack to help relieve gender dysphoria and to achieve the look and feel of having a penis.
There are pre-packed boxers out there, underwear you can pack yourself, harnesses, skin-safe adhesive and of course the almighty TransTape.
Packing can look like basic non-phallic packers that can be slipped into packing underwear or, at the other end of the spectrum, there are painted prosthetics that can be used to pee standing up.
Among other things.
My point is that there are many ways to pack and also that not everyone wants a long shlong in their underwear.
But personally, I do.
Alright enough of the sausage fest, let's move on.
TransTape
I already covered the usual recap on TransTape in the last first time user post so this is going to be short and sweet.
As always, feel free to skip through this part.
It'll only break my heart.
I'm kidding but also, please read.
TransTape is a high quality, body-safe tape that allows the user to toss bras, binders, gaffes and harnesses away and live freely in their skin.
Compression free.
TransTape is sweat-proof, waterproof and it's designed to move and stretch with your body for days at a time without restricting your movements.
The compression free and hypoallergenic design also gives users who have breathing difficulties or sensitive skin another option to feel free and safe in their skin.
TransTape is a pretty incredible thing.
Unlike other gender affirming products, TransTape doesn't limit you to how many hours you are able to wear it for.
You're good to go for days, my friends!
But of course, be mindful of your skin and look for signs of skin irritation or possible reactions. Because although TransTape is made with the highest quality materials possible, that does not guarantee that everyone is going to have the same experience.
Which brings me to the next point.
Before attempting to apply TransTape for the first time, complete your test strip.
Do not skip the test strip!
Do not.
Skip it.
I think that just about covers our summary.
Let's go!
Packing Prep Time
Prepping can be a little more time consuming for packing.
Or maybe I'm just impatient?
Either way, it's a good idea to set aside some extra time to prepare your tape and get your O-ring and everything situated.
I'd suggest at least an hour worth of time for prepping and applying.
Basic Packing Needs
TransTape
Scissors
O-Ring
Packer
As long as you have these things on hand, you'll be able to prep and pack no problem.
It's not too complicated.
But when it comes time to attach the o-ring, it takes a little bit of time and patience.
So make sure you are setting aside enough time so you can have a stress-free experience.
Cutting Strips
The general shape of your tape is likely going to resemble an upside down house at first.
If you start with that shape in mind, you just have to then trim it up to match your body better.
Everyone's body is different and you should definitely take the time to fine tune your tape so that you're comfortable the entire time you decide to wear your application for.
And round your corners, dammit!
Avoid the Leg Creases
When you're trimming the main part, avoid letting the tape fall in the creases of your legs.
For me, this is very uncomfortable.
It tends to pull on some hair and just feels weird in general.
Instead, try to cut the tape so it covers only the top of your pubic area and doesn't fall onto any sensitive areas.
Hold Packer Up for Reference
For a visual reference, hold your packer where it will need to sit for you.
If you wear a stand-to-pee packer like I do, you'll likely need to apply your tape lower than someone who is using a basic packer. This is why it's a good idea to see where exactly everything will need to rest for you to be comfortable.
This will show you where you need to cut the o-ring in for a good pack.
And try to leave lots of space for the o-ring so you have plenty of support from the tape.
Save Your Scraps
Save your trimmings!
As you're cutting away at the strips to better fit your body, save the scraps!
You can use these when you're reinforcing the o-ring.
I like to do this so I don't have to cut another separate piece of tape to cut into small pieces.
Maybe I'm just lazy, not impatient. Let's call it innovative?
This might not make a difference for you but I find it pretty helpful.
It's the little things.
Support Strip
Not everyone feels like they need it, but consider a support strip!
Similar to what a vertical strip with binding would do, a support strip with packing gives a little bit more support and can help keep things in place a little bit longer.
I use a support strip because I use an STP.
STP's tend to be a little bit heavier, but you're also using it throughout the day which can affect the wear on your application.
Highly recommend giving it a go!
Other Tips
Most of the tips for first time tapers are about prepping your tape before the actual application.
But that's not all.
Body Hair
If you really want to save yourself some aggravation, and probably discomfort, you should trim the hedges.
I mentioned it being uncomfortable if the tape falls into your leg creases, but the tape catching your pubic hair is a whole other ballpark.
Pun intended.
Don't shave it all the way down, that'll cause ingrown hairs, but definitely give it a nice buzz cut or at least cut the stragglers that might get pulled out of the way.
I'm a hairy guy so I always need to do some landscaping beforehand.
Patience
It's easier said than done, but having patience with the process is huge.
We all get discouraged sometimes but don't beat yourself up about it.
Setting aside extra time is always great but you gotta season that time with some nice-ness.
You understand?
Be your own best friend.
It's also super beneficial to set the mood.
If you've read my posts in the past, you've definitely read about that before too.
But it's true!
Setting the mood for yourself to be kind and patient with yourself is super beneficial and important to the process.
A lot of times, we're handling parts of our body that aren't our favorite while applying TransTape so it's important to feel safe in our environment while we tape.
We want to feel positive while we tape!
This could mean treating yourself to a spa day and if this is you, avoid oil based products before applying TransTape.
But it could also mean lighting some candles, smoking a legal joint, watching a movie or going for a run before you tape.
Whatever setting the mood looks like for you, go ahead and do it!
Setting the mood is for everyone.
But everyone sets the mood differently.
Because everyone is different.
And I think that's beautiful.
Until next time,
Stay awesome,
Stay beautiful,
Stay you.
You are loved and it gets better.
Talk to you soon,
Jamie
Welcome to the cool kids club!
My name is Jamie and I'm a young (ish) transman born and raised in the Hudson Valley of New York state. I started my transition in May of 2017 and since then, I've made it my mission to live unapologetically as myself and spread awareness through my pursuit of happiness. I am the creator and writer of Spilling T blog, a proud affiliate of TransTape and when I'm not outside with the best dog ever or hanging out with my two cats, I make and sell my own beard care products through Buckaroo's Beard Care. I'm always looking for my next adventure and have been skydiving, road-tripping, hiking in the mountains and even served for a short time in the United States Marine Corps. My life has had its fair share of twists and turns and I hope to use those experiences to create helpful and relatable content that may help someone else navigate a difficult time in life.
Beards, Socials, Tape and Writing
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