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What is Gaffer's Tape?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Gaffer's tape is a flexible, strong, fabric-backed adhesive tape that comes in lengths ranging from 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) to a potential of 6 feet (1.8 meters), with the most common width being 4 inches (approximately 10 centimeters). It is similar to duct tape, but it is more flexible, can be molded over a variety of shapes, and usually leaves no residue. This tape most commonly comes in a matte black finish designed for use on stages, but it is manufactured in a range of colors for various applications, including red and bumblebee-striped to indicate hazards.

Although it will not break if pulled or twisted, gaffer's tape can easily be torn along any side. This makes it ideal for applications in which a wide variety of tape lengths and widths are needed, because users do not need to carry scissors to cut it. The tape is widely used in the film and stage industries, and its common name probably comes from the head of the lighting department for a film crew, who is also called a gaffer. A company called Gaffa also manufactures Gaffas Tape, so both spellings are accepted. Gaffer's tape is manufactured in large rolls that are 6 feet (1.8 meters) across and cut down to the size needed, making it theoretically possible to custom order a roll of tape in that size, although it might be challenging to unroll and handle.

Electricians often use gaffer's tape.
Electricians often use gaffer's tape.

Gaffer's tape is capable of adhering to a wide variety of surfaces, although it sometimes removes paint or finish from wooden surfaces. The tape can be easily removed or repositioned with gentle traction. It's also somewhat heat and water resistant and capable of handling low temperatures, which is why it is used in many stage applications, such as taping down trailing cables and cords for safety; placing blocking marks for furniture, actors, or cameras; and taping set pieces together. The tape is also commonly used to label and seal film cans, as well as to label channels on light and sound boards. Costume departments have also been known to use it for emergency alterations.

Gaffer's tape may be used to repair the binding of a damaged book.
Gaffer's tape may be used to repair the binding of a damaged book.

Most members of electrical and sound crews on films carry rolls of gaffer's tape in various sizes and colors, and the multipurpose, sturdy tape has spread to other industries as well. Librarians, for example, frequently employ it on the binding of damaged books, and the military uses it in a number of environments as well.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseTour researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

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Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseTour researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

novashun

@Anon12990: We normally use a company called Gaff Tapes, 2" is probably what you need. Quality tape and pricing is reasonable. Are you using it for photography, film, or events?

anon176721

Used to mark actors positions on stage, temporarily hold down cables or wires for trip hazards, yet is removable without damaging the floor or carpet.

anon131911

Gaff tape is never called duct tape. it's quite different. Find it online.

anon127495

Gaffers tape is not duct tape! duct tape bonds with the product it is adhered to and is time consuming to remove and melts together. gaffers tape is clean, quick and easy to work with. The right product gets the job done correctly.

anon112066

Look online for it, where production crews get this stuff by the case. Black, white, and gray are most common. 2" and 1". Great stuff!

anon60365

Gaffer's tape is not duct tape. Duct tape often leaves behind a sticky residue and is much harder to reposition.

Gaffer's tape is prized for its ability to be removed from surfaces without leaving residue or causing damage. Duct tape has a plastic back, whereas Gaffer's tape is made with fabric. It is easier to tear with your fingers, and stronger.

anon51919

gaffer tape is also called duct tape and cloth tape.

anon12990

Where can I get Gaffers Tape? It's hard to find.

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    • Electricians often use gaffer's tape.
      By: Sudheer Sakthan
      Electricians often use gaffer's tape.
    • Gaffer's tape may be used to repair the binding of a damaged book.
      By: Erik Schumann
      Gaffer's tape may be used to repair the binding of a damaged book.