Ever wondered where Scotch Tape came from?

Ever wondered where Scotch Tape came from?

What can be used to repair torn dollars, seal envelopes, and hang a picture of your favorite star? Scotch Tape is the answer. We use scotch tape almost every day and it is a standard supply in every classroom and office across America. Did you ever wonder how Scotch Tape was invented? Well, let me tell you. In 1921 Richard G. Drew, an employee of 3M, Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing, noticed while testing waterproof sandpaper, that the current method of using glue and newspaper to mask cars during two tone paint jobs was ineffective. The paste or glue used marred the finished paint job. Drew was determined to fix this problem that had auto painters so frustrated and he did. After two years of trial and error with different materials he discovered an ingenious rubber based formula with glycerin in it on crepe paper. Little did Drew know that this invention would affect not only the lives of auto painters but also of every American household, school, and office. Drew, who had dropped out of engineering school and was an active banjo player, was now an economic success. Drew continued his experiments and invented cellulose tape in 1929, which was transparent and closer resembles the scotch tape we are used to.

The timing of his invention was perfect. A few years later the Great Depression hit and America was suffering from economic loss and devastation. While other companies were laying off all of their employees due to the Great Depression 3M was going strong.Drew’s Scotch Masking Tape served as America’s household handyman. It allowed families to mend items in stead of having to buy them during a period of financial distress. According to Judith L. Benham, ACS board chair,“Scotch Tape was the perfect seal to mend a broken nation.” The rubber shortage in World War II, resulting from the war effort, produced an even better formula of scotch tape that retained its clarity. This clarity resulted from a new synthetic acrylate adhesive. Drew is now deservedly celebrated in the National Inventors Hall of Fame. So the next time you reach for the scotch tape, think of Drew and the frustrated auto body painters.