Double-Face Tape Substitute

Double-face tape has many applications in a woodworking shop. It can be used to hold pieces together for tracing or cutting and is durable enough to hold up to machining operations. As such a versatile product, it becomes essential to have in the shop. but what if you find yourself in need of a strip only to realize that you’re completely out? Is it time to call it quits and wait until the hardware store is open? Not at all!

If you find yourselves in this predicament, with a little creative engineering you’ll be able to complete your project without interruption. All you have to do is employ a technique using a couple products that you probably already have in your shop.

Here’s what you can do to engineer a work-around for these situations:

1. Apply single face tape

Cover both your template and workpiece with regular tape, being careful to have no overlap. A single layer will ensure a nice gap-free contact between the template and work piece.

2. Apply glue

Using a type of glue like the one George recommends here, place an appropriate amount on one of the surfaces.

3. Press the pieces together

With adequate pressure, hold the pieces together until a bond has formed. Be careful not to release too soon or you will have to re-apply glue and start over.

After the pieces are firmly attached, make your cuts, then pull the pieces apart as you normally would with double face tape. If you enjoyed this video, check out our other helpful workshop tips.