Masking tape removal

[Mt. Clemens Bowyer]

What is the best, and or easiest procedure for removing the masking tape from the fiberglass backing, and facing upon removal from the bow oven?
  At this point in time I have cured my 4th bow for 5 or 6 hours and have found it very difficult to get the tape off of the bow. Please share the best information. Thankyou          John

[JamesV]

I always use 3M tape. The cheap tape is no bargain. Mine pulls off easily.

[JamesV]

I have never tried the blue stuff

[Mt. Clemens Bowyer]

I used the blue painters tape and that is the one that is hard to get off. Do not use it.   John

[Mike Most]

Elmont Bingham sells a high heat masking tape for that purpose, and it peels quite easily after the bow comes out of the oven, Not really expensive either.

Good Hunting

Mike

[Hermann From Bavaria]

i use a hot air gun for tape removal. heat it up a bit (not too hot, just a bit) and you can pull it off easily.

Greets,
Herm

[Swissbow]

I always put two or three layers of masking tape on the glass. That makes it much easier to pull it off after the bow has cured.

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Andy

[jess stuart]

I have had good luck with the blue painters tape, clean the residue off with acetone and a rag.

[bjansen]

I've had a problem with regular masking tape as you described (and even some of the painters tapes).  I now use Bingham's high temp tape and it really comes off easy (and overall about the same cost as the 3M painters tape).  

Another tip, I always taper the limb with the tape on and lightly sand/round the edge prior to tape removal...and always start at the center and work to the limb edge in order to avoid lifting a fiberglass fiber upon removal.

[Pennsyltuckey pete]

I have had decent luck with the blue painters tape but it is still a PITA.  I like the idea of gentle heat.  Gonna try that next time.

pete

[kennym]

I use 3m and remove it as soon as possible after limb cleanup,then put new tape on(any kind) to lay out limbs.

[JamesV]

Just looked out in the shop. The 3M tape is use is "paint production tape". Not blue. I leave this tape on till I start final sanding and it still removes easily. Cheaper too, than regular 3M masking tape at Lowes.

[Mt. Clemens Bowyer]

Thanks a lot guys for all of the great information. I will use better procedures the next time around. My computer was down recently until my oldest son repaired it.    John

[2treks]

I use 3m as well and it comes off pretty good. You need to clean up the edges first. if it wants to fight you then just pass your heat gun over it a few times and it will work right off. It takes only VERY MILD heat and it comes right off.