An American engineer who invented masking tape, revolutionizing the way people temporarily hold things together. This humble innovation has become an essential tool in various industries and households.
Richard Gurley Drew, an American inventor, is renowned for revolutionizing the adhesive tape industry with his ingenious creations: masking tape and cellophane tape. Born on June 22, 1899, Drew's innovative spirit and perseverance led him to become a pioneering figure in the world of adhesives.
In 1921, Drew joined 3M in St. Paul, Minnesota, a modest manufacturer of sandpaper at the time. During his tenure, he noticed the struggles of auto painters in achieving smooth, two-tone finishes. This sparked an idea, and after two years of dedication in 3M's labs, Drew invented the first masking tape in 1925. This innovative two-inch-wide tan paper strip was backed with a light, pressure-sensitive adhesive, specifically designed to facilitate smooth transitions between colors.
The initial masking tape had adhesive along its edges but not in the middle, which led to an amusing yet instructive encounter with a frustrated auto painter. The painter's demand for more adhesive led to the nickname "Scotch" – a term that would later become synonymous with Drew's inventions. Building upon this feedback, Drew refined his design, and in 1930, he introduced the world's first transparent cellophane adhesive tape, known as Scotch tape in the United States and Sellotape in the UK.
The introduction of Scotch tape transformed the way people lived and worked. During the Great Depression, the tape's versatility and practicality made it an essential tool for repairing rather than replacing items, fostering a culture of resourcefulness and frugality. This innovation not only contributed to 3M's diversification and growth but also had a profound impact on the broader industrial landscape, enabling the company to thrive despite the economic downturn.
Richard Gurley Drew's remarkable inventions left an indelible mark on the world of adhesives and beyond. Throughout his career, he worked for prominent companies, including Johnson and Johnson, Permacel Co., and 3M, where he developed groundbreaking products that continue to influence modern industries. Drew's legacy extends beyond his remarkable inventions, inspiring generations of inventors, entrepreneurs, and innovators to pursue their passions and transform the world around them.
Drew's contributions to the world of science and industry were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including his induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 1996.
Richard Gurley Drew passed away on December 14, 1980, in Santa Barbara, California, leaving behind a lasting legacy of innovation and progress. His remarkable story continues to inspire and captivate audiences, serving as a testament to the power of human ingenuity and dedication.
Born in 1871
Co-founder of the Wright Company, credited with inventing and building the world's first successful airplane, making powered, controlled, and sustained heavier-than-air human flight a reality.
