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Whats the best binding tape you all have found that can be purchased from Home depot, Lowes,,etc... I like the LMI tape but run out. What comparable to that??

If your binding is preformed, and is a very good fit, you can use the basic 3M blue painters tape (regular kind) and just double up on it. I've done several guitars that way and it has worked like a dream.

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Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.

Lots of ways to do this. I use a method recommended by some folks that are much more experienced than I. I use 3M green masking tape (3M 233+) that has some stretch to it. Alternate as you put it on: top to the side on one, then side to the top on the other. Doesn't need to be doubled up. Usually on the shelf at automotive paint supply stores. Of course the binding still needs to fit well.

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Steve Smith
"Music is what feelings sound like"

Lots of tape will work. I like the Stew Mac tape for routine stuff and the fiberglass reinforced tape to really pull the binding in tight at places like the waist and cut-away.

I use duct tape...works really well.

I am going to second 3M Strapping tape. It does not react with CA like the adhesive on masking type and SM's binding tape. Holds well and comes off easy with less fiber tear out the SM's

The medium strength blue tape works great, though I haven't had a chance to try the green yet. The low-tac blue isn't going to work too well...avoid it unless you are just masking for finish or paint.

I wonder about packing and/or duct tape leaving residue/sticky behind...how well do they do with that? Obviously, Gorilla tape is WAY out.

-Matthew

Scotch 233+. I've used StewMac brown tape, strapping tapes from various makers, blue masking, white masking, etc. You get more pressure from the 233+ because of its elasticity. The local hardware store won't have it, but you can order from Amazon.

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Howard Klepper
http://www.klepperguitars.com

When all else fails, clean the shop.

Scotch 233 AKA green tape. You can find it at local "car" stores like CarQuest and others in 3/4" and 1/4" width. Like Howard pointed out, it's elastic yet most resilient under pressure. The 1/4" is handy for tight waists and cutaways.

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Laurent Brondel
West Paris, Maine - USA
http://www.laurentbrondel.com/

I get my tape from Uline. it is available in larger quantities and thus less expensive . I use stretch tape

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John Hall
blues creek guitars
Authorized CF Martin Repair
Co President of ASIA
You Don't know what you don't know until you know it

I'm in the 233 camp. I get mine at NAPA auto stores. I think for less then the blue painters tape.

Yet another vote for the green tape.

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Jim Howell
Charlotte, NC

233 here as well. Good stuff.

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John Mayes
http://www.mayesluthier.com