Use double-sided tape for temporary positioning
Hold a template, guide or trim piece in place before a proper fixing.
Fix, Fasten & Secure
Tape Tricks
Simple ways to mark, protect, position and temporarily repair with common workshop tapes.
Practical tricks
View all tricksUse duct tape for temporary non-critical repairs
Make a short-term patch or hold while planning a proper repair.
Use masking tape for clean drill marks
Put a small patch of tape on a surface so pencil marks are clear and easier to remove.
Use painter’s tape to reduce splintering when cutting
Tape along a cut line to support surface fibres during light cutting work.
Use tape as a depth marker on a drill bit
Wrap tape around a drill bit as a visible reminder of the target depth.
Guides
View all guidesChoosing the right tape for the job
A practical guide to matching common tapes to temporary DIY tasks.
Removing tape residue without damaging surfaces
Careful ways to soften and lift adhesive residue from common surfaces.
When tape is only a temporary fix
How to recognise tape jobs that need a proper follow-up repair.
Glossary
View glossary
Adhesive residue
Sticky material left behind after tape is removed.
Double-sided tape
Tape with adhesive on both sides for light positioning or bonding.
Duct tape
A strong cloth-backed tape used for temporary holding and patching.
Masking tape
Paper-backed tape used for masking, marking and light temporary holds.
Painter’s tape
Lower-tack masking tape intended to reduce paint bleed and surface damage.