Flatback Tape: The Go-To Solution for Precision, Durability, and Versatility
Did you know that some flatback tapes can handle bake cycles of up to 225℉? This makes them a go-to choice for high-temperature splicing and industrial jobs that demand high heat resistance.
And did you also know that some flatback tapes are safe enough for use in food packaging? Certain types meet FDA rules for indirect food contact, making them perfect for sealing boxes in food-related industries.
Flatback tape is made with strong kraft paper backing and pressure-sensitive adhesive. The end product is a strong and reliable accessory you can use at home, business, or school.
It even has a writable surface so you can label your items. It peels easily, resists curling, and is great for high-stress industrial tasks or everyday projects like securing printing plates, sealing cartons, and more.
What Is Flatback Tape?
Flatback tape is a handy, all-purpose tape with a smooth paper backing that you can use for splicing, packaging, and other everyday uses. You can tear it easily by hand or use a machine to dispense it, making it super simple to handle.
This tape is used in busy settings like shipping departments and packaging lines because it's quick and efficient. But it's not just for industrial use; you can also use it at home, school, or office for general tasks like bundling, packing, or arts and crafts projects.
What makes flatback tape special? Here are a few of its most important qualities.
- Strong Paper Backing: Flatback tape has a strong and stable paper backing. The tape is sturdy and easy to work with, whether using a machine or hand to apply it. It's firm, yet you can easily tear it in a straight line to give you a neat, professional-looking application.
- Powerful Adhesive: Flatback tape usually has rubber-based adhesive, which gives the tape strong adhesion, excellent holding power, and quick stick properties. It can stick firmly to many surfaces, like cardboard, wood, or paper. It's designed to hold tight without peeling or slipping, making it perfect for jobs like splicing, bundling, or sealing packages.
- Built for Strength and Durability: Are you thinking of splicing in printing, sealing heavy packages, bundling and reinforcing, or handling some DIY projects? Flatback tape is hardy enough to handle tough jobs. It has strong tear resistance and won't stretch or break easily, staying reliable even with tension.
- Versatility: Need a tape that can do it all? Flatback tape fits the bill. Moreover, you can use printable flatback tape to add custom labels and double sided flatback tape for mounting or more detailed work.
- Matte, Non-Reflective Finish: Flatback tape has a matte surface that gives it a smooth, professional look. This tape doesn't reflect light, which is great for projects where a clean and polished finish is important. Plus, its writable surface lets you label or mark directly on the tape.
What Makes Flatback Tape Different From Other Tapes?
It's easy to differentiate flatback tape from other tapes like duct tape and masking tape.
For instance, flatback tape has a kraft paper backing, making it smooth and writable. In contrast, duct tape has a fabric mesh coated with polyethylene, giving it a rough, non-writable surface. While duct tape is extremely strong and is a good choice for heavy-duty repairs, it often leaves residue behind when it is removed. You don't have to worry about residue with flatback tape, as it offers clean removability.
Masking tape is made from thin paper and is easy to tear, but it won't give you the same durability and strength as flatback tape. Flatback tape works great for precise jobs like splicing and labeling, while masking tape is primarily for painting and simpler jobs.
Versatile Applications of Flatback Tape
As already mentioned, versatility is one of the best qualities of flatback tape. Here are some of its most popular applications.
Professional Settings
You can use flatback tape for professional tasks where reliability matters, such as labeling, bundling, and splicing.
For instance, you can use printable flatback tape in warehouses to label items or sections because the writable surface keeps information clear and visible.
Its clean removal makes it perfect for woodworking, allowing you to mask edges during staining or varnishing. The tape's durability makes it a good choice for industrial and office jobs.
Packaging
Packages from your favorite online store pass through many hands and steps before they arrive at your door. The package or box and contents can easily get damaged.
Fortunately, flatback tape's strong adhesive and reliable kraft backing prevent this from happening. It reinforces and bundles packages, providing extra strength.
Further, flatback tape resists moisture and stays firmly in place, even in challenging shipping conditions. Plus, it's easy to label and mark your address or the package's details on the printable flatback tape.
Printing & Graphics
Flatback tape is a must-have tool in printing and graphic arts, especially for splicing, holding, and masking.
With this tape, you can easily secure plate mounting in flexographic printing. The sturdy kraft backing keeps the plates in place during high-speed operations without damaging them. The tape's smooth surface ensures crisp, clean lines and prevents ink from bleeding so that you can produce high-quality prints.
Plus, thanks to a writable surface, you can efficiently label and mark with printers, saving you time.
Arts & Crafts
Flatback tape is a must-have for every artist and crafter, and here's why.
This tape is easy to tear by hand, making it great for projects that need a quick, clean cut. It sticks firmly but removes without leaving residue or harming delicate surfaces, which is perfect for scrapbooking, framing, or DIY crafts.
Its writable surface also lets you label or make notes directly on the tape, adding to its creative potential. You can use colored flatback tape for a variety of tasks such as color coding, bookbinding, decorative edging, and more!
Why Choose Tape Jungle's Flatback Tape?
If you're seeking premium flatback tape, Tape Jungle delivers the best in the market. Here's why Tape Jungle's flatback tape stands out:
Quality Assurance
Tape Jungle's flatback tape is designed with quality in mind. It has strong adhesive and a tough kraft backing that holds up well, even when there are significant changes in temperature or high humidity.
You don't have to worry about sticky messes either - this tape sticks securely but removes cleanly, even after prolonged use. Whether you're an artist, a packer, or working in a warehouse, this tape keeps surfaces clean and neat every time.
It can also handle demanding jobs, like holding plates in printing presses or sealing heavy cartons for shipping.
Variety of Options
Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, Tape Jungle provides several options to match the right tape to your needs.
You can choose from:
- Kraft Flatback Tape: A classic option with a natural rubber resin adhesive, available in tan and brown shades for a seamless look.
- Colored Flatback Tape: Perfect for color-coding, bookbinding, decorative edging, and identification. It's available in bold shades like black and red.
- Printable Colored Flatback Tape: This one is perfect for custom labeling. It comes in light blue, white, orange, red, and yellow.
- Double Sided Flatback Tape: This type of flatback tape has adhesive on both sides. You can use it to mount photographs, install carpets, manufacture golf grips, and for splicing applications.
Tape Jungle also offers different sizes of flatback tapes for different tasks, from narrow 6mm widths for precise jobs to wide 144mm rolls for bigger projects. Whether packaging fragile items or labeling with bright colors, there's a flatback tape just right for your needs.
Competitive Pricing
You don't have to break the bank to get high-quality flatback tape.
Tape Jungle offers affordably priced products compared to competitors without compromising on performance. Rest assured, you'll get a cost-effective, high-performance tape for your business or individual needs.
Eco-Friendly Features
Many of Tape Jungle's flatback tapes feature renewable materials like recycled kraft paper, natural rubber and water-based adhesives, recycled plastic, and bio-based options like cornstarch or plant-based resins. They're a sustainable alternative to plastic-based tapes.
You'll get the same strong performance as traditional tapes but with less impact on the planet. You can often recycle them along with cardboard boxes, cutting down on waste.
Using eco-friendly flatback tape shows you're committed to sustainability and supports eco-friendly practices in your industry.
Tips for Using Flatback Tape Effectively
One major advantage of flatback tape is that it's easy to use. However, to get the best results from flatback tape, follow these practical tips.
Surface Preparation
The first step before applying flatback tape is to ensure a completely clean and dry surface. Any dust, grease, or moisture can weaken the adhesive and cause the tape to peel off prematurely. Fortunately, preparing the surface is easy peasy.
A quick wipe with a lint-free cloth works well enough for most surfaces. For tougher dirt, try using a mild detergent or isopropyl alcohol. Let the surface dry completely before applying the tape. This step is important because even slight dampness can prevent proper adhesion.
If you're working on an especially dirty or oily area, repeat the cleaning process to ensure the surface is fully ready for the tape.
Storage Recommendations
How you store your flatback tape can have a big impact on its quality and performance. All Tape Jungle's flatback tape products are resistant to temperatures between 30 and 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
Nevertheless, it's a good idea to store your tape in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme heat or cold. High temperatures can make the adhesive too soft, while cold can reduce its tackiness. On the other hand, moisture can degrade the adhesive over time. Ideally, store the tape in a temperature-controlled environment to maintain its quality.
Keep the tape in its original packaging to protect it from dust, moisture, and any physical damage. Plus, avoid stacking multiple rolls directly on top of each other to prevent deforming the edges.
Last, but not least, try to use your tape within 12 months of purchase to maintain its adhesive strength and flexibility.
Proper Removal
Removing flatback tape carefully can save you from dealing with residue or surface damage.
Always peel tape off slowly at a 45-degree angle, as ripping it off quickly can damage surfaces or leave adhesive behind. If you spot any residue, a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol or a commercial adhesive remover will help lift it easily.
If you're dealing with tough spots, let the solvent sit for a minute or two before gently rubbing it off. First, test the solvent on a small, hidden area to ensure it doesn't damage the surface. If the tape tears during removal, use a flat tool to lift the remaining pieces without scratching the surface.
Additional Tips
- Press Firmly: Apply even pressure when putting the tape down to ensure it sticks well. Use a roller or flat tool to help smooth out any air bubbles.
- Cut Cleanly: Use sharp scissors or a utility knife for a neat edge to make your work look tidy and prevent fraying.
- Layer Carefully: When layering tape, overlap the edges a little and smooth out any wrinkles to create a strong, seamless hold.
- Mind the Temperature: Apply the tape at room temperature for the best results. If it's too cold, the adhesive might not stick as well, and if it's too hot, the tape could get too soft.
Closing Thoughts
Flatback tape can come in handy for all kinds of projects. Maybe you're tackling something professional, being creative, or just going about your daily routine.
This tape is easy to use, strong, and flexible enough to work for everything from packaging and printing to fun arts and crafts. With features like a writable surface, clean removal, and eco-friendly options, it's no wonder many people rely on it.
If you're searching for the perfect flatback tape, Tape Jungle has you covered. We offer a huge selection of different types, thicknesses, colors, and sizes to fit any job.
Request a sample or place your order today and see how reliable and versatile flatback tape can be!