Invisible tape is meant to stick on, not stand out. It disappears on artworks and on documents so you can focus on the work rather than on the adhesive. The first waterproof, see-through tape was invented in 1930 by engineer Richard Drew, who later founded the Scotch brand. Scotch introduced transparent tape to the market in 1961. Now produced by a number of manufacturers, invisible tape is transparent, can be written on, and won’t discolor. Gift wrappers should note that invisible tape, with its matte finish, does not disappear on shiny wrapping paper; depending on the paper, clear tape may be a better choice for the job. Browse our selection of the best invisible tape products below.
1. Scotch Magic Tape
Scoop up this six-pack of Scotch’s iconic tartan-embellished tape dispensers. This matte-finish tape is frosted on the roll but goes on transparent. It is easily cut and removed from the roll. Write on the tape’s surface using pens, pencils, or markers. Perfect for labeling, mending, and mounting, this product is photo safe.
2. Staples Invisible Tape
Of slightly lesser quality than Scotch brand tape, but good choice for the budget conscious, this invisible tape comes in packs of 12. Once applied, this tape becomes transparent. The adhesive is durable and able to stick to a variety of surfaces. Thanks to the matte finish, this tape holds marker, pen, and pencil marks without their smearing.
3. Business Source Invisible Tape
Tape is a classroom essential. Educators will love Business Source’s bulk pack of 12 rolls. High in quality and low in price, this tape disappears on paper and won’t show up on copied pages. Super durable and smooth, it resists splitting and tearing and is easily handled and applied. Note that these rolls do not come in disposable plastic dispensers but are made to fit standard desk dispensers, making this option a bit easier on the environment.
4. Mr. Pen Invisible Tape
Mr. Pen’s product includes six refillable tape dispensers preloaded with one roll each. Each roll includes 600 inches of tape, so you’ve got a while before you run out. This high-quality adhesive comes off the roll smoothly and cuts easily. Resistant to splitting and tearing, it is ideal for office, home, and classroom use. Mr. Pen donates a portion of its proceeds to community foundations and schools.
5. Lineco Self-Adhesive Document Repair Tape
Known for producing high-quality conservation supplies, Lineco offers an ultrathin matte tape for repairing or mounting paper items, including maps, photographs, documents, and artworks. Acid-free and pH neutral, this tape is invisible on matte surfaces when burnished, but should be used on the reverse side of photographs or glossy book jackets. It is fully reversible when treated with mineral spirits. Because it is so thin, the tape comes mounted on a paper backing, which may be frustrating to those new to using it.