Scrim tape is an excellent tool for some reasons, and not knowing how to use it properly can hinder it. Fortunately, there are a few simple guidelines that will have anyone using scrim tape like a pro in no time. Here are our ways the best scrim tape can be used correctly:
- GET YOUR MEASUREMENTS RIGHT
When it comes to getting the best use out of scrim tape, proper measurement is vital. Measuring correctly ensures you won’t waste any strips when cutting, which means less work later on. It’s best to measure the template or surface you’ll be putting together with your tape around. If there are multiple layers, don’t forget the middle size, too – this still counts as one piece.
- START FROM AN EDGE AND WORK INWARD
When scrimming, it’s best to always start from an edge and work toward the middle. When you finish working on one piece, pull that tape taught but not too tight to stretch it. Keep tension between each piece for best results throughout all your sessions. This will allow any creases caused by pulling too tightly to fall out over time, which you don’t want happening.
- USE MULTIPLE TAPES WHEN NEEDED
Scrim tape isn’t going to hold everything together forever, so sometimes, it’s best to use more than one strip of tape. If you need to hold together several layers or one particularly tough panel, it’s best to use strips of tape (or even multiple pieces) to make the best support for what you’re trying to build.
- TEST YOUR DESIGN BEFORE TAPING DOWN
When scrimming something like an intricate model, it’s best to do a test run using pieces of paper or flattened cardboard first. This ensures that the final product (and all its broken pieces) don’t end up on your doorstep – at least not because you scrimmed it wrong. This also ensures that the tape is laid down properly and completely without needing any real-life practice.
- USE GOOD QUALITY TAPE EVERY TIME.
Using the best scrim tape will ensure everything you build with it is the best it can be. Cheap, nameless brands often don’t hold up or form properly when pressed against each other, causing creases and complications in your builds – so why save a couple of bucks if you’re going to end up throwing it away later?
- COATING YOUR TAPE WITH MODGE PODGE OR WHITE ELMER’S GLUE HELPS ADHERE BETTER
Scrim tape is a fantastic tool on its own, but having something to stick better to using helps immensely! An easy way of doing this is by coating your tape with either one of these two before sticking them together. If desired, spray the coat evenly for best results. This will ensure nothing comes apart when you’re not looking, which is always best when dealing with ambitious builds.
- DON’T USE IT IN WET ENVIRONMENTS
Unfortunately, there are some situations where scrim tape might not be best to use. The best option for this is masking tape, which can handle itself much better than scrim tapes in moist areas. If the space you’ll be building in has any moisture (e.g., high humidity or even just sweaty hands), then it’s best to avoid using this method entirely – especially if your tape isn’t reinforced.
CONCLUSION:
Scrim tape is so helpful when you need to cover up an enormous surface area. But sometimes, it’s hard to know how best to apply the scrim, and then there can be creases or bubbles that ruin your work. It is essential to know how to use the right type.