Fun fact: duct tape, originally called “duck tape,” is the creation of Johnson & Johnson. One of the most reliable tools in the world, it was designed for the U.S. military during World War II. Our troops needed a waterproof tape out in the field that was durable, easy to apply and strong. Personnel originally called the product “duck tape” because water ran off of it like on a duck’s back. The resource was rechristened “duct tape” when it was commonly used to secure metal air ducts.
Now you may think you know duct tape, but we’re betting you don’t. People reach for it for far more than holding parts in place. Here are a few of the more interesting uses.
Health & Fitness
- Walkers, hikers, weightlifters and runners apply a smooth layer of duct tape to blisters and sores. Fully-developed irritations are doubly protected with a padding of gauze or paper.
- An actual Marine exercise: hold a large roll of duct tape out to one side until you can no longer hold it. Repeat with the other arm.
- Place squares of duct tape on a punching bag to improve your accuracy.
Survivalist
- If you don’t have a handy paracord, lengths of twisted duct tape will make a doable cord or rope in an emergency. It’s also a great clothesline.
- Preserve food by resealing packages with duct tape, even cans.
- Make a sling, secure a splint, bandage a sterilized wound, wrap a sprained ankle, etc.
- If you tape the insoles of your boots, silver side up, the tape will reflect the warmth of your feet back into the footwear, providing a touch of insulation.
- Pull together some trash bags and use duct tape to construct a shelter-roof, windbreaker or sleeping bag cover.
Arts & Craft
Probably not as easy as it sounds: people are cutting, folding and twisting duct tape to make braided bracelets, hair bows, belts, beads, sunglasses, flowers, key ring wristlets and even wallets and handbags.
Or, surprise your kid with a duct tape book bag. They’ll never use it, but it’ll still make for a nice gift!
Home Repair
- Patch the tears in vinyl siding with a tape color that matches. Ensure the surface is dry first and smooth the tape with a rolling pin or by hand.
- Before removing broken window glass, crisscross the pane with duct tape. This minimizes the chances of it falling apart during the replacement process.
- Until you can replace a screen, keep bugs out by covering any holes with duct tape.
Whether for a professional or personal project, Nelco Products is the place to get started. We have all the
duct tape you’re ever going to need. Talk with one of our techs about your ideas and get the 411 on getting it done, whether with duct tape,
cable ties or heat shrink tubing. We’ll always put you on the right path.
