A close-up centered shot of colorful rolls of tape in various textures and patterns, elegantly arranged on a wooden desk, bathed in warm natural light

National Cellophane Tape Day celebrates one of the most practical inventions that helps bring things together – the humble adhesive tape. This clear, shiny invention has become an indispensable part of our daily lives, from wrapping gifts to fixing documents.

Quick Facts

When is it?: May 27
Tagged as: Innovation & Invention Day
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalCellophaneTapeDay
When was it founded?: 1930
Who founded it?: Richard Gurley Drew at 3M Company

History

The story begins at 3M Company in Minnesota, where Richard Drew worked as a lab assistant. The name “Scotch” came from a frustrated body shop painter who complained about the adhesive’s stinginess, telling Drew to “take this tape back to those Scotch bosses.” What started as a criticism became one of the most recognizable brand names in history.

Timeline

  • 1921: Richard Drew joins 3M as lab assistant
  • 1925: Invention of Scotch Masking Tape
  • 1930: First waterproof clear adhesive tape created
  • 1932: First heavy-duty tape dispenser with cutter blade introduced
  • 1945: Post-war expansion to over 100 tape varieties
  • 1961: Launch of Scotch Magic Tape

Dates for Next Year

YearMonthDateDay
2025May27Tuesday
2026May27Wednesday
2027May27Thursday
2028May27Saturday
2029May27Sunday

How It’s Observed

People celebrate by getting creative with tape projects, from gift wrapping to craft making. Some even experiment with its unique properties, like its ability to emit X-rays when peeled in a vacuum!

Fun Facts About Cellophane Tape

  • It can produce X-rays when peeled in a vacuum
  • Ornithologists use it to repair cracked pigeon eggs
  • The iconic plaid design was introduced after World War II
  • It’s made from processed cellulose, not plastic
  • Featured in a Saturday Night Live skit called “Scotch Boutique”

Quiz

  1. Who invented cellophane tape?
  2. What year was the first tape dispenser created?
  3. Why is it called “Scotch” tape?
    (Answers: 1. Richard Drew, 2. 1932, 3. Due to a complaint about being “scotch” (stingy) with adhesive)

FAQs

Q: Is cellophane tape made of plastic?
A: No, it’s made from processed cellulose, similar to paper.

Q: When was it first marketed?
A: January 31, 1930

Related Days

  • World Marketing Day
  • National Innovation Day
  • National Invention Day
  • National Office Supply Day