bend down the points...............Good or bad?
The biggest problem I have with what you are doing is "bending down the points."
This makes me think you are using a frame that has flexible points already inserted and are limiting yourself to either making a package of framing contents that "works" with the point position in the frame, or are forcing the package to fit with the points, or may not have sufficient filler board and have too loose of a package.
Your best bet is to either order frames without the flexible points, or remove them completely before you fit your package and buy a good quality fitting gun and shoot in the appropriate ponts at the approtriate height and spacing. The problem with removing points and then putting in new ones is you are making swiss cheese of the rabbet. Better to have a virgin frame if possible.
As long as someone brought up my hero, Greg Fremstad, he also has a great article about having a framing package too tight.
Also, what is "acid free" tape and why do you feel compelled to use it? I would be more concerned with what kind of adhesive is on the tape and what the carrier is (durability) - it may stick now, but what about in the future? If left in a warm car? If on a wall that changes in temperature? Will the adhesive hold up against an unfinished wood frame?
Re: The tape - I HATE any package that is taped in. It is difficult to remove, will usually tear the filler board, and leave residue on the frame. Properly inserted fitting staples, points or brads will never need tape. With all due respect to my fellow framers across the pond, I also do not like pressure sensitive tape in lieu of backing paper - but water activated Kraft is OK and so much easire to work with. Greg's article is not about taping in the package, but sealing it before fitting.
Get yourself a good fitting gun!
