Paper backing -best way to apply

[johnny hulgan]

I use a ATG gun and tape, then have a paper backing blade cutter. The problem I always have is the cutter cuts in about a 1/8" and I've put the tape all the way to the edge of the frame and the have to rub the tape off. I know there is a better way.

 

[hangupsgallery]

Apply the tape 1/8" from the edge. You can actually buy a small guide that fits on the ATG gun. But with a little practice, you should be able to "eyeball" it.

 

[johnny hulgan]

Thanks about gun attachment. I've attempted to put it in a little but can't get it straight.

 

[Jeff Rodier]

Use the tape roll loose and not in the gun. You can stretch out the length of tape needed and stick it on the one end then stretch it tight hovering above the edge of the frame to eyeball the spacing then lay it down. Lift the carrier paper off and tear at the end. I use a single edge razor blade with my fingertip as an edge guide to trim. Do it enough times and you can get perfect trims in your sleep.

 

[Jim Miller]

1. Use frame glue instead, which costs a fraction of ATG

2. Use 1/4" wide fillet tape instead, which might cost about the same, but is easier to apply precisely.

3. Trim to the edges of the frame using an ordinary single-edge razor blade, instead of using a special tool to trim 1/8" in.

 

[wvframer]

This may be less useful now that so many of us are using CMC's, but Vivian Kistler pointed out to me years ago that a used matcutter blade is still perfectly sharp in the middle. Conveniently, this is the best part of the blade to use for trimming paper exactly to the edge of the frame.

If you lap a half inch over one side, you can make a perpendicular cut to the edge of the rail, then proceed to cut around the edges for a perfect finish. It takes a few tries to establish the technique. Now that I rarely use the straight line cutter, I still have a stock of blades and have continued to use this technique.

You can get "hand-held" ATG that is reverse-rolled to make it easier to use without a gun. This gives you much more control.

Jim Miller is right, glue is the least expensive and most secure method for applying paper. When I was working alone, I usually used this method. Now that I have employees, I try to keep things that create potential risk of accident out of the assembly room, so we use ATG for most regular work. It really doesn't hold as well over time though. For conservation work, I use glue and do the work myself.

 

[Bob Doyle]

You can also use a sandpaper block and sand the backing paper off the frame. Used to use that method a lot, just sand the paper off at a 45 degree angle. Done right you don't mar the molding and the paper is right to the edge.

After you put the ATG down do you use your hand and make sure there is no ATG on the side of the moulding? Cleanup before hand is easier than cleaning up after

 

[Pat Murphey]

...You can get "hand-held" ATG that is reverse-rolled to make it easier to use without a gun. This gives you much more control...

Is that like getting an 8 x 10 instead of a 10 x 8? No matter how you peel it, ATG alternates glue, release paper, glue, release paper - how you use it only depends on how you start. You can also use it clockwise or counter-clockwise just by turning it over.

(I know the reason for the orientation of the first little glue tab for the takeup reel on an applicator.)