Duct tape is an awesome craft supply -- no one is denying that! But let’s face it, it’s an expensive product. If I told you how much I spend on duct tape each year, you’d pass out! But the kids (and adults) love it, so I keep using it! But keeping in mind that not everyone has a big budget for tape, I’d like to offer up some ideas to help you stretch your duct tape farther. My husband once made a documentary about barbecue, and in it a fellow said that when they cooked, they “used everything but the ‘oink!’” I thought that was really funny, so with that in mind, I give you part one of a three-part series. I’m calling it “Duct Tape - Using Everything But the Rip!”

For this installment, I’d like to talk to you about the end of the roll of tape. You are going to find about one foot of duct tape that has paper backing instead of sticky backing. This piece should be pulled off and saved (I put all of mine into a shoebox) because they have a multitude of uses!

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One of the problems with crafting 24/7 is that I kind of create my crafts in a bubble. I forget that not everyone can get pool noodles in the winter, or that not everyone has an ample supply of popsicle sticks or clothespins lying around. Right now my team and I are working on “craft kits” we can sell to those who need specific supplies, but for the time being, here are some suggestions for stand-in items to use in place of some commonly missing items.

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