This tip comes from Jodee at Inspire Woodcraft. In this video, he shares a better alternative to the popular blue tape and super glue method that many woodworkers use for template-making and temporary bonds.
Jodee compares the pros and cons of both approaches and explains why he now prefers a simple roll of double-sided paper tape for cleaner, faster, and more reliable results in the shop.
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Understanding the Blue Tape and Super Glue Method
Many woodworkers use the blue tape and super glue trick to temporarily hold two pieces of wood together. It’s especially popular for making templates or duplicate parts using a router.
The method involves applying painter’s tape to each surface, adding a few drops of CA glue to one side, spraying an accelerant on the other, then pressing the parts together until they bond. Once the work is done, the pieces are peeled apart and the tape discarded.
While this technique works well in theory, it’s not always smooth in practice. The glue can squeeze out, the tape can shift, and misalignment can cause frustration or even ruin a workpiece.
Where the Method Falls Short
Jodee outlines several downsides to this trick that he’s experienced firsthand:
- Glue squeeze-out can bond directly to the wood surface if alignment isn’t perfect.
- Painter’s tape varies in quality—some are too soft, thick, or inconsistent for tight bonding.
- CA glue can cure faster than expected, leaving little room for adjustment.
- It’s easy to accidentally apply too much glue or get poor contact in critical spots.
In some cases, the time spent fixing glue residue or misalignment outweighs the convenience of using this method in the first place.
A Better Option: Double-Sided Paper Tape
Jodee now prefers using double-sided paper tape for many of the same tasks. This tape offers a strong, temporary hold without the mess, fumes, or alignment stress that comes with super glue.
To use it, simply apply a strip to one side, press it down firmly, peel off the backing, and attach the second piece. The hold is strong enough for routing or cutting but releases cleanly when you’re done.
It’s especially useful for template routing, zero-clearance fence attachments, and any task where you need a solid but temporary connection.
Benefits of the Double-Sided Tape Method
This alternative eliminates glue entirely, which means no accelerant, no squeeze-out, and no curing time. Jodee highlights several other key advantages:
- You can reposition the tape easily before applying pressure.
- It’s strong enough to hold parts firmly during routing or cutting.
- Separation is clean and requires no scraping or chiseling.
- It saves time and reduces stress when working on detailed or repeat projects.
For zero-clearance fences on miter saws, for example, the tape holds the fence tight during cuts but can be removed in seconds when it’s no longer needed.
How to Use Double-Sided Tape Effectively
The process is straightforward:
- Apply a strip to one part of the project and press it down.
- Peel away the paper backing, leaving a clean adhesive surface.
- Carefully align the second piece and press it in place.
- Proceed with your routing, sanding, or cutting.
- When finished, peel the parts apart and discard the tape.
Jodee recommends tearing off a small “tail” of the backing before you lay it down, which makes the tape easier to remove later if needed.
Choosing the Right Products
Not all tapes perform the same. Jodee recommends using a thin, firm double-sided paper tape that’s easy to tear by hand but provides strong adhesion.
As for CA glue and painter’s tape, quality still matters if you stick with that method. Thinner blue tapes and fast-curing glues paired with an accelerant can still work well—but they require much more care during setup.
Jodee notes that tape thickness, adhesive type, and how flat your pieces are all affect the bond strength and accuracy of your work. Testing on scrap material is a good way to avoid surprises.
Practical Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes
Whether you’re using glue or tape, Jodee offers a few solid tips for better results:
- Keep glue and tape centered on each piece to avoid edge squeeze-out.
- Apply multiple strips of tape on large templates to prevent movement.
- Check for flatness and even pressure before routing.
- Use the right drill bits or router bits to minimize vibrations that can break the bond.
- Practice the process on scrap to get a feel for alignment and strength.
Why It Matters in the Workshop
Template accuracy is critical in many woodworking projects, especially when routing multiple parts or reproducing a shape. The choice of bonding method impacts precision, speed, and cleanup.
While the blue tape and super glue trick has its place, Jodee’s experience shows that double-sided paper tape is often a cleaner, faster, and less stressful option. For woodworkers focused on efficiency and precision, it’s a change worth considering.
Support Jodee by visiting his online store here: https://inspirewoodcraft.com/collections/all.