This tip was shared by Jodee from Inspire Woodcraft. It’s a smart and efficient way to use double-sided tape that removes the most frustrating part—peeling off the paper backing.
With one simple adjustment to how you tear and apply the tape, you can eliminate wasted time and make this tool a regular part of your shop workflow. It’s a small hack that solves a big annoyance.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Jodee’s channel:
Why Double-Sided Tape Matters in Woodworking
Double-sided tape is an incredibly useful item for temporary holds, especially when clamps are too bulky or impractical. It’s often used for holding templates in place, securing workpieces for routing, or keeping small parts steady during assembly.
But despite its versatility, many woodworkers avoid it because removing the paper backing can be a struggle. It’s fiddly, inconsistent, and slows down your momentum during a build.
The Frustration Most Woodworkers Know
Typically, you cut a piece of tape from the roll, stick it to your workpiece, and then try to dig at the corner to peel the paper backing. This step often turns into a time-wasting exercise, especially when working with gloves or on a dusty surface.
Over time, this hassle becomes enough of a deterrent that many stop using double-sided tape altogether. Jodee offers a workaround that removes this problem completely.
The Simple Trick That Changes Everything
Rather than cutting the tape first, Jodee starts by pulling the paper backing back from the roll. Once the adhesive part is exposed, he tears the tape—not the paper backing—so that the paper extends beyond the tape.
This leftover “tail” becomes an easy-to-grab tab that lets you peel the backing off cleanly with zero effort. You never have to search for the edge or dig in with your fingernail again.
When you place the tape onto your workpiece, the tail remains free, making the backing easy to remove with a single pull.
Why It Works So Well
This method turns the paper backing into a handle—something to hold onto every time you apply tape. That small tail eliminates the one frustrating part of using double-sided tape.
It’s a small change in how you use the roll, but it makes a big impact on efficiency. It also makes the tape more appealing for repetitive tasks, such as jig mounting or template work.
Choosing a Good Tape for Woodworking
Jodee recommends using a high-quality paper tape that sticks well without leaving residue behind. He avoids the foam-based or glossy types, which can be messy or too strong for delicate work.
While the video doesn’t endorse a particular brand, Jodee includes a link in the description to the type of tape he uses regularly. Finding a product that balances strength and removability is key to making this trick effective.
Tips for Better Tape Results
In addition to the backing trick, Jodee offers a few more tips to get the most out of your tape:
Clean surfaces before applying tape—dust and moisture reduce adhesion.
Press firmly across the entire strip to make sure the bond is secure.
Use it for delicate or awkward parts where clamps aren’t practical.
Try pairing it with blue tape or CA glue when extra hold is needed.
These habits, combined with the tail technique, help turn tape into a reliable tool rather than a backup option.
A Worthwhile Addition to Your Workflow
In woodworking, efficiency and repeatability are key. This simple habit shift makes double-sided tape faster to use and more consistent, which can shave minutes off every project involving fixtures or temporary holds.
Over time, small improvements like this add up, especially in busy shops. Jodee’s approach helps turn an underused material into something you’ll reach for again and again.
A Shop Hack That Just Makes Sense
Jodee from Inspire Woodcraft shares a lot of useful techniques, but this one stands out for its simplicity and usefulness. It doesn’t require new tools, costs nothing extra, and starts paying off immediately.
It’s a great example of how small details can improve your overall workflow and make your shop time smoother and more enjoyable.
Support Jodee by visiting his online store here: https://inspirewoodcraft.com/collections/all.