What make Eric Daniel Kohlman tic?
Ten revealing questions about the
guy behind the tape.
Q. If duct tape is so good, how can you
unroll it?
A. An excellent question, but I think we are all a little misunderstood.
You see, when we are saying duct tape is good, we are saying a lot. Not
only is duct tape formulated to have its unbelievable stick, but it is
also built to be durable in harsh conditions, and be waterproof for the
most part. Although duct tape’s stickiness is astonishing, we must not
forget about the waterproof, durable, and shocking backing and stitching.
Although you can easily unroll the tape, you can count on duct tape still
adhering surprisingly well to itself. The backing is built to protect duct
tape’s stick, without it duct tape could very well perish.
Q. I know you have the most profound respect
for the handyman’s secret weapon, duct tape, but what are your thoughts
on Tie Straps and WD40?
A. Although my sole purpose in life is to speak about the great wonders
of duct tape, these other two creations are also near the top of my all
time favorites. Tie Straps are an excellent addition to anyone’s toolbox
(especially when out of duct tape) because it is highly durable and strong.
These small inventions are surely a must in a handyman’s holster. As for
WD40, this is my second all time secret weapon. Not only is it known for
its great uses with rusty devices and loosening things, I’ve come across
a great use for it. We know duct tape has that great stick, but what if
it needs to be removed? Well, WD40 has come to the rescue. I myself have
actually used it to remove some of my creations, sometimes just for a reapplication
of duct tape.
Q. Do you have a defining moment when you
knew duct tape was more than just another adhesive?
A. Yes. One day I took a SINGLE piece of duct tape and pulled
one of my friends behind my car in a sled. It was a spectacular moment,
when I knew I would be unable to break away from its unshakable stick.
(Kids do not try this at home.)
Q. Would it be fair to say that you view
duct tape as a tool more than an adhesive?
A. Definitely. As a child I viewed duct tape as simply an adhesive
to be used when the others didn’t work. But now I have thankfully discovered
its great strength and power it has when put to the test in countless conditions.
Duct tape will no longer be viewed as simply an adhesive in my eyes, but
more of a tool, a tool to be used when you want a job done RIGHT.
Q. What do kids today need to know about
duct tape?
A. Kids today need to trust more in duct tape. I find siblings and
younger teens not appreciating it enough. Of course they do not have to
go to my extremes, but I would like them to try it out. A quote of mine:
“You can only live life to the fullest with a roll in your hand and adventure
in your eyes. With these, anything’s possible.” I want kids to know about
the wonders and defiance duct tape has today. They should try it out and
see if we can have some sparks fly from their imaginations.
Q. What is your favorite color of duct tape?
A. I’d have to say the traditional gray duct tape is my #1 choice.
Not only did I grow up with this color, I believe duct tape is known for
it’s traditional silver-gray color. But don’t get me wrong, I have tried
out the blue on my jacket and it seems to work just as great. The gray
is cheaper, but doesn’t always stand out well enough. I have experimented
with different colors from Christmas colors to neon. I have also seen reflective
duct tape, which I’m sure would be fun to use. (Moonlit walks, dances)
Q. What are your thoughts on the “mat tape”
that the wrestlers use.
A. I believe the mat tape does stand up to its duties to a degree.
It does last quite a while, but eventually does tend to tear. It also doesn’t
seem to have a great enough sticking power. I recommend the extra wide
duct tape to be used, but I have no experience in whether it would be the
greatest choice. I’ll have to experiment on that. Until then the clear
plastic type tape will have to try to do the job. One more thing when we
are on the wrestling subject. I have seen that wrestlers tend to use an
awful lot of tape for taping up injuries. This tape seems to wear off,
so I recommend adding a layer of duct tape over the top for extra protection.
School colors, and it’ll make you more slippery to escape from their grasp.
Q. I bought my cousin Mandy a cooler and
a roll of duct tape for her high school graduation, and she asked me, “I
know what the cooler is for, but what is the duct tape for?” Is this
a sign of bad parenting or is she just a mixed up young adult?
A. I believe she is just a little mixed up from my standpoint. The
parents are not probably at fault, because I think duct tape’s popularity
and its presence hasn’t been around for too long. Parents sometimes don’t
realize its great holding power unless finally shown. Mandy has to use
that sacred tape and will soon find its benefits. On a different note,
I enjoy the great gift idea. What better idea to give someone leaving high
school and pursuing their dreams but a roll of duct tape. I’ve used duct
tape as a gift to many loved ones, and have enrolled them into The Duct
Tape Club.
Q. Is it possible to have a self-help group
for duct tape (get-it?)?
A. I can assure you that such a thing is underway. I have been recently
working on some things to possibly start a web page for newcomers to the
wonder. Another excellent idea I might say.
Q. I do not advocate violence, but theoretically
who could you beat-up?
A. In wrestling: many a people. Out in the world: With duct tape as
my guide, anyone. I can get down to specifics if you ’d like.
Mr. Killinger,
Thanks for approaching this with an open mind. Hopefully these answers
will help you out with your web page. Feel free to revise/shorten any answers
as long as main ideas are crossed. You’re an awesome teacher and a great
friend Mr. Killinger. You’re the greatest, and I am proud to be a member
of The Duct Tape Club along side such a legend. Keep doing what you’re
doing, it’s working!
Thank you, Eric D. Kohlmann, yours in duct tape.