(NAPSA)—Those looking for a wayto fix bad credit, mend a broken heart or piece together the meaning of life may find that America’s favorite fix-all—duct tape—falls a bit short. So let’s just say the possibilities for this adhesive are nearly endless. As a solution for unexpected repairs and a medium for creative expression, duct tape has adhered to American culture and become an integral addition to toolboxes, craft bins and toy chests. Duct tape was originally developed in 1942 for soldiers who needed an all-purpose and waterproof adhesive to assist during World WarII. For the less utilitarian and much craftier users of today, we offer a few helpful product facts and tips for this tape of all trades: Duct tape works best when it’s at room temperature. If the surface temperature is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the adhesive will harden and possibly freeze before adhesion takes place. To maintain pliability and prevent a sticky mess, store duct tape in a dry, temperate environ- ment with sheets of parchment paper betweenrolls. * Duct tape isn’t just gray! Duck brand duct tape is available in 20 colors and patterns. As a crafting tool, duct tape can be used to create nearly anything, from picture frames and purses to flowers and prom outfits! (www.stuckatprom.com) For many people, it is more difficult to cut duct tape with scissors than to tear it by hand. Cutting the tape will often cause the adhesive to stick to itself or the scissors. If you have to use scissors, remove any adhesive residue <> Take care of your duct tape. With proper storage and care, duct tape will last for years. from the blades with rubbing alcohol. For the savvy DIYer, strength and durability are important factors in choosing the right duct tape. Gradesof duct tape are determined by the thickness of the tape and its adhesive, as well as the durability of its fabric layer. For extreme duct tape enthusiasts, new Ultimate Duck Tape, the strongest, stickiest and most durable in the line of Duck brand duct tapes, is excellent for delaying permanent repairs and for jobs that require ultrastrength. Duct tape gets its strength from the threads that run through it. Those same threads also allow for easy tearing. Need a place to celebrate duct tape other than your garage? Avon, Ohio, is the acclaimed “Duct Tape Capital” of the world, where the Avon Heritage Duct Tape Festival (www.avonducttapefestival. com), a celebration of the neverending uses for duct tape, occurs every Father’s Day weekend. To learn more about the various grades and colors of duct tape, or to submit your ownreal-life uses, visit www.ducktapeclub.com.
