A guide to gaffer tape
Gaffer tape is everybody’s favourite tape. It’s widely used in the AV, entertainment, and exhibition industries thanks to its strong hold, easy hand-tearability, and clean removal.
Knowing how to use gaffer tape correctly makes a big difference in its performance. Here’s how to use gaffer tape like a pro.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What gaffer tape is
- Common uses
- Techniques the pros use
- A guide to gaffer tapes (which tape is best for the job)
If you have any questions, our expert team is here to help. Contact us today.
What is gaffer tape?
Gaffer tape is a heavy-duty cloth tape with a rubber-based adhesive that leaves little to no residue. It was originally developed for the film and theatre industries, but it’s now used in everything from photography to stage rigging and industrial installs.
Gaffer tape is often confused with duct tape, but they’re not the same. Here are three ways gaffer tape differs from duct tape:
- Gaffer tape removes cleanly without residue
- It is available in a matte finish that reduces light reflection
- It is easy to tear by hand (for fast use on-site)
5 common uses for gaffer tape
Gaffer tape is popular because of its versatility. Professionals are always coming up with new and different ways to use it. However, there are five common uses for gaffer tape.
✔ Securing down cables and cords on set or stage.
✔ Blocking out light leaks or reflections in photography.
✔ Discreetly holding back curtains or backdrops.
✔ Quick repairs on fabric, foam, or staging.
✔ Temporary signage and general fastening.
7 tips for using gaffer tape like a pro
1. Start by cleaning the surface
Wipe away dust, oil, and moisture before applying tape, especially on floors or gear. This ensures a strong initial bond.
2. Test before full application
If you’re using a new surface (like painted walls or delicate equipment), always test a small area first.
Pro tip: For delicate surfaces, we recommend using Nashua 500.
3. Hand-tear it properly
There’s a trick to hand-tearing gaffer tape properly. Start by pressing one thumb down on the tape at a 90° angle. With your other hand, tear sharply down and across.
Pro tip: If the tape stretches before you tear, it can distort the edge.
4. The trick to securing cables with gaffer tape
There’s also a trick to safely secure cables with gaffer tape.
- Tape across cables with short strips every 1.5 metres.
- Next, run a long strip lengthways over the cable.
- Press down for good adhesion to the floor.
Pro tip: For securing cables, we recommend using Nashua 357. This tape is the industry standard and has been the professional’s choice for more than 40 years.
5. Reduce light reflection with the right tape
When you need low visibility (for film, photography, or exhibitions), choose a matte gaffer tape that won’t reflect light, such as Nashua 510 or Stylus 3810.
6. Remove the gaffer tape correctly
Gaffer tape is known for removing cleanly. To remove it correctly, gently peel back the tape at a 45° angle. If the tape has been used on cords or cables, it’s important to peel the tape off the cable, not the other way around. This avoids sticky wraparounds.
Pro tip: Need to clean up residue? Read our tape residue removal guide.
7. Store your tape right
Proper storage of your gaffer tape can significantly extend its shelf life and ensure it performs as expected when it’s time to use it.
- Keep your gaffer tape in its original packaging in a cool, dry space.
- Storage temperatures should be 15–22°C with 50-50% humidity.
- Avoid prolonged UV or heat exposure.
Which Gaffer Tape Should I Use?
|
Use Case |
Recommended Tape |
|---|---|
|
General AV and events |
|
|
Delicate surfaces |
|
|
Matte finish required |
|
|
High Visibility |
Stylus 3702, Stylus 511 |
Pro tip: Don’t be fooled by ‘gaffer-style’ tapes. Not all black cloth tapes are true gaffer tapes. Look for tapes designed for clean removal, with high tensile cloth backing and a residue-free adhesive (like those used in film, theatre, and event production).
Need Help Choosing the Right Gaffer Tape?
We offer a wide range of professional-grade gaffer tapes. If you’d like advice on which tape to choose (from quick repairs to cable management and more), contact one of our adhesive tape experts. We have decades of experience and are happy to help you with product selection and tailored advice.
