Better Packages
Section 3
Sealing with Gummed Tape
23
CHOOSING THE CORRECT TAPE LENGTH
In most situations, the correct length of tape is the total length of the seam to be sealed plus a two to
three inch (5cm-8cm) overlap on each side.
• On extremely long cartons, such as those used for furniture or mattresses, an overlap of four to five
inches (10cm-13cm) may be best.
• On very short cartons, those less than 16 to 20 inches, only a one or two inch (3cm-5cm) overlap may
be necessary.
APPLYING TAPE TO THE CARTON
The best way to apply the tape to the carton is:
1. Place the wet tape on the end of one of the flaps to be sealed so that:
- Half of the tape’s width is on one flap
- The other half is overhanging
2. Fold the flap without the tape down to its closed position.
3. Fold the other carton flap (the one with the overhanging tape) down into its proper closed position so
that the overhanging portion of the tape is now in contact with the other flap on the opposite side of the
carton.
4. Starting from the middle of the carton, apply a light downward pressure and wipe your hands over the tape on
top of the carton flaps. Move from the center to the sides and then down over the overlapping ends in the
sides of the carton. Sometimes wiping the tape down a second time before releasing the carton is helpful.
This process will ensure:
• Full adhesion of the adhesive
• A strong permanent bond
• A neat professional appearance of the sealed carton.
NOTE:
It is not necessary to apply more than one piece of tape to any one seam being sealed.
Reinforced water-activated tape provides an extremely strong seal.