Sealed with humor: Plaid duct tape

Duct tape, the prosaic lifesaver of do-it-yourselfers and outdoorsy types, continues its ascent as a design accessory.

L.L. Bean's "Maine Guide" plaids (red with black and green with black) join two other popular company prints: camouflage and wildlife.

At $9.50 per plaid pair (each is 30 yards long and two inches wide), they are more than just a stocking stuffer, says Mac McKeever, senior public relations representative for the Freeport, Maine, company. "Obviously it's essential for hunters and anglers, but at Christmastime people are actually using it to wrap presents as a way to put a little pizzazz on their gifts." www.llbean.com