Whether you’re painting a bedroom, crafting with the family, wrapping a special gift, or decorating for a party, there’s one brand you’ve turned to, time and time again. Scotch™ Brand is proud to have been the unsung hero of your minor fixes, major milestones and memorable moments for 100 years.
How it all began – the history of Scotch™ Brand
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It started with a painter’s problem
In 1925, Richard Drew invented masking tape to help auto-body painters detail cars without damaging existing paint jobs. His solution helped the process of painting two-toned cars, providing a sharp demarcation between the two colours. The adhesives used up until then stuck so firmly that removing them often ruined the paint job.
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New transparent tapes are invented
In 1930, Richard Drew developed Scotch® Cellulose Tape. Later to be renamed Cellophane Tape, it provided grocers and bakers with a moisture-proof way to seal packages. The tape also helps people “make do” during the Great Depression in the 1930’s, fixing everything from ripped clothing to torn money.
This decade also brought other inventions: in 1932, Scotch™ Brand introduced the first heavy-duty, countertop tape dispenser. Then in 1939, Scotch™ Brand welcomed the "snail", its iconic handheld tape dispenser.
During World War II, tape production was diverted to the war effort, with 3M creating over 100 types of tape for various uses. Scotch® Double-Sided Tape was also introduced during this time.
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A “star” product is born, and the range expands
In the 1950’s 3M invents Scotch® Magic™ Tape. This innovative matte-finish tape is virtually invisible on light-coloured paper and envelopes. Unlike glossy tapes, it can be written on with pen, pencil or marker. Also during this time, Scotch® Cellophane Tape is renamed Transparent Tape.
In the late 60's the range expands to include packaging supplies, then in the 1990's Scotch® Gift-Wrap Tape is introduced, followed by craft adhesives and glues, cutting tools and more.
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Today and the future – the next 100 years with Scotch™ Brand
Over 100 years, the Scotch™ Brand has continued to evolve, introducing a broad range of adhesive products for both everyday household needs and specialised industry applications.
Today, we understand the importance of developing with sustainability in mind, finding ways to replace plastic packaging and improving the efficiency of our manufacturing process wherever possible. We’ve already developed a plant-based version of our Scotch® Magic™ Tape. Additionally, we have introduced alternative packaging solutions like paper-based tapes and Scotch™ Cushion Lock™ Protective Wrap – an expanding paper alternative to plastic bubble wrap that keeps items safe during transit.
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Why Scotch™ Brand stands the test of time
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Versatility and inspirationWith a range of more than 400 products for both consumers and businesses, Scotch™ Brand solutions create endless possibilities and make everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable.
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Reliability you can trustOur products are designed to stand up to the toughest challenges, ensuring your projects stay secure, whether your wrapping gifts, creating art or sealing delicate packages. -
Innovation and sustainabilityAt 3M we’re committed to helping shape a brighter future by continually improving the sustainability of our products and manufacturing. We’re working to reduce plastic packaging and introduce plant-based materials.
100’s of products for 100’s of uses – explore the Scotch™ Brand range
Scotch™ Brand isn’t just about tape, we also provide other adhesive solutions including glues and sprays, as well as scissors, with options for all ages. Here are a few examples of the most common uses for our products.
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CREATE- Craft and school projects, scrapbooking, gift cards
- Home décor – creating wall galleries with photos, children's art
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WRAP- All year round present wrapping and gift decorating
- Creating custom gift labels
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SEAL- Sealing envelopes and protecting documents
- Securing packages
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ORGANISE- Labelling kitchen items, lunchboxes or school supplies
- Organising loose items like cables and cords
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PACK & PROTECT- Protecting items during shipping
- Packing boxes for storage
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PAINT- Protection of walls, windows and fixtures from paint
- Wall pattern creation, creating clean, sharp paint lines
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MOUNT- Home décor, wall art, collages, information in the office or classroom
- Lightweight mirrors, plants and racks
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REPAIR- Hosehold repairs such as sealing vaccum tubes, repairing shoelaces or boxes
- Fixing torn pages in books or documents
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Find out where to get your favourite Scotch™ Brand products and start creating, packing and more!
3 fun facts about Scotch™ Brand
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The 3M Hutchinson plant in Minnesota, USA, makes about 12 million miles of tape every year. That’s enough to go to the moon and back 25 times!
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Having been around for over 60 years, Scotch® Magic™ Tape remains one of the most recognisable tapes in the world, sold in 100’s of countries. In 2024 it won a contest held by The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce’s to find ‘The coolest thing made in Minnesota’.
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The Scottish tartans used to designate Scotch® Tape were designed exclusively for the 3M Company by New York colour consultant Arthur Allen. The familiar tartan design, a take on the well-known Wallace tartan, was introduced in 1945.
