Duct tape is notorious for its ruggedness, strength, and versatility. It’s the closest thing you’ll ever have to the perfect tool. For decades, craftsmen have been using duct tape for quick fixes, unique builds, and other odds and ends. You’ve probably already gotten creative with this dynamic tool, but you haven’t thought of everything! Let’s take a look at some creative uses for duct tape that you’ll be eager to try.
It’s a drink holder in a pinch.
As a craftsman, you’ll drive anything that gets the job done. Old pickup trucks? Perfect. Messy service vehicles? Oh yea. On the job site, it’s not uncommon to come across a vehicle with a cup holder that’s damaged, missing, or full of junk. Instead of having to leave your drink behind, just whip out your roll of duct tape, throw it on the ground, and voila – you’ve got yourself a makeshift cup holder. The thicker the roll, the sturdier it is!
You can remove splinters with it.
You’re no stranger to getting splinters on the job site or when tackling a project at home. Even if they’re not painful, they’re still a nuisance. When you don’t have a pair of tweezers handy, a bit of duct tape can do the trick. Break off a small piece, place it over the splinter, and pat down firmly to make sure the duct tape connects. When you’re ready, peel it off slowly so the duct tape stays stuck to the splinter. Who knew duct tape could be used as a non-emergency first aid kit?
Keep your shoelaces from falling apart.
Shoelaces are typically the first thing to go on a pair of work boots. Once those little plastic things on the end fall off, your laces start to fray. (Those plastic ends are known as aglets…by the way). While you can always get cheap replacements online, you’ll need a quick solution when you’re out and about or on the job site. Take a small piece of duct tape and wrap it around the end of your shoelaces where it’s starting to come apart. Make sure it’s big enough to keep your laces from slipping through the hole in your shoe.
It’s a makeshift lint roller
Why waste your money on a cheap lint roller when you have a perfectly good one in your garage already? That’s right! Duct tape doubles as a homemade lint roller. Whether you’re having trouble seeing your couch under all that dog hair or your suit hasn’t seen the light of day in a while, just a few light touches with the sticky end of the duct tape will do the trick. If you really want to get fancy, grab a long piece and wrap it around itself with the sticky side on the outside. That way, you get the rolling action of a real lint roller.
Use it as an impromptu bug catcher.
If you’re experiencing a pest problem and don’t have any proper traps, sprays, or repellent on hand, your trusty roll of duct tape will suffice! It’s characteristic stickiness makes it a highly effective bug trap. You can lay a long piece on the ground with the sticky side facing up to catch any ants, spiders, cockroaches, or other creepy crawlers from getting into your home. If you’re hunting flies, simply hang up a piece of duct tape like fly paper.
Improve the insulation in your boots.
As a craftsman, you’re used to braving the elements on the job site so the northwest winters no longer bother you. You have a bunch of tough winter gear to keep you warm and toasty no matter the weather. But if you ever find your toes needing a little extra heat, break out the duct tape. Believe it or not, this versatile tool can help lock in heat to give your winter boots some added insulation. Simply cover your shoes’ insoles in a few layers of duct tape. You can always buy cheap insoles to keep your main ones intact.
Eager to find a fulfilling construction gig with competitive pay? You’re in the right place! Madden Craftsmen has been helping talented craftsmen find work with some of the best construction companies in the northwest. Check out IamMadden.com for the latest job openings. And if you’re not qualified yet, we offer an apprenticeship program where you can get the qualifications you need with the chance to earn some money along the way. Let’s build something
