#the tool shed
[Image Description: a one-page document formatted so both sides are visible as two pages. It is titled “DypsohiAid Packing Sheet v1.0″ and is all black text on a white background. The full text can be read under the readmore of this post.]
Packing Guide v1.0
This is the second guide I’ve developed for DysphoriAid, a project meant to create simple and printable guides for transgender people on the topic of dysphoria-relieving items. This packing guide includes basics, where to buy packers, making your own, Do’s and Don’ts, and additional information. It was developed with the help of a coworker and friend Richard Cole.
As always, the original files may be requested for modification via an ask to this blog. If you download, please reblog!
The text can be read below the readmore, formatted in the intended reading order.
First / Front Page
DysphoriAid Packer Sheet Online v1.0
Trusted Companies - Make Your Own - Do’s and Don’ts - Further Info
The Basics, What to Keep in Mind, and Where to Buy
A packer is an item used to replicate a bulge and occasionally other features associated with having a penis for those born without one. There are multiple reasons why someone would choose to pack, including lessening dysphoria, improving body image, and increasing personal safety in public places and for people who are expected to “pass” as a non-transgender man. Making the choice to pack can be very personal and not everyone who “could” pack will or wants to. Discomfort with or a lack of a need to pack doesn’t make anyone any less transgender or nonbinary, nor does packing make anyone more transgender or nonbinary.
The decision to pack starts with the decision of one’s price range and what one would like from a packer. There are three main times of packers: soft packers, pack n plays (packers that can also be used for sex via an insertable rod), and pack, play, and pees (packers that can be used for both sex and for peeing in a standing position). Usually, the ones with more uses are more expensive. Packers come in many different materials, sizes, and colors as well. Packers made from porous material and can easily soak up bacteria and dirt, which can cause urinary tract infections and skin problems, but can be more comfortable for the wearer. Silicone packers are more durable but still need to be cared for. When it comes to size, bigger is not always better. There are definitely large packers, as there are definitely people with large penises, but smaller packers give a more realistic look and are often more comfortable to wear. Finally, most packer companies offer a range of skin colors, but finding one to match your exact skin tone if desired may make the search for a packer take more time. It is possible to recolor some packers, look for a link in “Additional Information.”
Most people who own packers own a variety of accessories as well. Packers, especially the lower-end ones, do not stay in place well. Harnesses and special underwear can be used to keep them from falling out. Pack and plays cannot be used for the “play” function without a harness. Most packers can be cleaned with soap and water, but some companies and some materials warrant special cleaning solutions. Going to websites listed in the next paragraph and the “Additional Information” section can help you make an informed decision and show you what else you need along with a packer.
If everything written here sounds confusing and convoluted to you, there’s good news - transgender and nonbinary people have been packing for decades and companies are more than willing to help you understand their products. The Tool Shed (toolshedtoys.com) is an LGBT-owned business that focuses on sex positivity and safety and offers a good selection of packers in a clean layout, including the popular first-time-packer line Mr. Limpy / Softie. TranZwear (tranzwear.net) is a transgender-owned business that focuses mostly on packers and packer accessories. A note for TranZwear however: the site may be difficult or impossible to navigate for those with reading or sensory difficulties due to the general uncleanliness of the design. For the extreme end of quality and price, look at the transgender-owned Transthetics (transthetics.com).
Make Your Own / Packing Without a Packer
Sometimes, purchasing a packer is not feasible for any number of reasons. So, here are some alternatives! All the rules to regular packing - found in the “Do’s and Don’ts” section - should be followed even when not wearing an official packer. These methods are often helped by the use of the specialized underwear made for packers.
NOTE: Never ever use tape or adhesive to secure a packer of any type. Surgical glue is used in some cases, but only for prosthetic packers and only by trained medical professionals.
Second / Back Page
Option #2: Fill an unlubricated condom about halfway with some sort of gel, like hair gel, and tie it off tightly at the desired length. Place within another unlubricated condom or two, typing those off as well. Cover with a sock or other sleeve to reduce tugging and catching. Place in a jock strap or tight-fitting underwear. Watch for tearing and leakage, replace often.
Option #1: Roll a pair of socks into itself to create an oval-ish shape, manipulating the socks until a desirable bulge is achieved. Stick the faux-bulge into your underwear, securing it with safety pins if there’s concern of it falling out or losing its shape. Not always realistic-looking, but cheap and easy. Use thin socks to reduce heat.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Packing
Do
Wash your packer every day after wearing it with at least soap and water
Try out different placements and ways of securing your packer to find out what fits and feels comfortable
Look at examples of cisgender men and other packing transgender people online for placement reference, like underwear models
Listen to your body and make sure your packer isn’t overheating or hurting your genital region
Replace your packer if it becomes damaged, worn out, or cannot be cleaned properly
Look up reviews and videos on packing and specific packers and accessories before buying
Dust non-hommade packers with cornstarch before wearing to lessen the dirt and hair they pick up
Experiment if resources permit you to
Don’t
Leave your packer in a damp area or where bacteria is likely to flourish
Expect other transgender people to always feel comfortable talking about their packing experiences
Place tape or adhesive anywhere near your genital area
Trade your packers with other transgender people, especially if they are pack and plays or pack, play, and pees.
Feel discouraged if a popular packer isn’t right for you
Boil silicone / cyberskin / thermal gel packers, as they will melt
Ignore the directions of the manufacturer or seller - they know best!
Use non-skin-safe cleaning materials on your packer
Force yourself to pack even if you identify as a trans male or trans masculine
Additional Information
Online*:
A Guide to Packers for Transmen (http://ftm-guide.com/guide-to-packers-for-transmen/)
Hudson’s FTM Resource Guide (http://www.ftmguide.org/packing.html)
Making your own Stand to Pee (http://www.wikihow.com/Make-an-Easy-StP-(Stand-to-Pee)-Device)
Reviews on packing harnesses (http://transguys.com/features/packing-harness-roundup)
How to recolor your packer (http://toysfortransmen.tumblr.com/post/36054626438/how-to-recoloring-your-packer)
*While this info sheet includes both binary and nonbinary transgender people, a great deal of the online resources available for packing only includes language about transgender men. The information is still good for nonbinary people, but readers should be aware of this. Additionally, online guides and resources often include pictures of packers, many of which are very realistic. Keep this in mind when searching on a non-private computer, browsing in public, or if you are adverse to images of penises.
Footer
DysphoriAid
Updated as of May 18th, 2017
Queer Condensed (QueerCondensed.tumblr.com)
Free for non-commercial use. For editing, contact Queer Condensed for original word document
A huge thank-you to Richard Cole for helping out with the research and links for this information sheet
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[Image Description: a one-page document formatted so both sides are visible as two pages. It is titled “DypsohiAid Packing Sheet v1.0″ and is all black text on a white background. The full text can be read under the readmore of this post.]
Packing Guide v1.0
This is the second guide I’ve developed for DysphoriAid, a project meant to create simple and printable guides for transgender people on the topic of dysphoria-relieving items. This packing guide includes basics, where to buy packers, making your own, Do’s and Don’ts, and additional information. It was developed with the help of a coworker and friend Richard Cole.
As always, the original files may be requested for modification via an ask to this blog. If you download, please reblog!
The text can be read below the readmore, formatted in the intended reading order.
The final material needing updates! Minorly changed the image description and added the full text. Also there were a few minor text errors in the file I just caught so that’s been updated as well. Enjoy!
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