Troubleshooting Tips for Optimal Box Taping Performance - InkJet, Inc.
Troubleshooting Tips for Optimal Box Taping Performance - InkJet, Inc.
You know how frustrating it can be when your box taping machine suddenly stops working properly. Tape application may be uneven or sloppy, tape jams clog the equipment, or the machine fails to seal boxes completely. While box taping issues can slow down operations and impact packaging quality, the good news is that many common problems are preventable and often easy to fix. This article shares practical troubleshooting tips to get your box taping equipment operating smoothly again. Learn how to identify common box taping problems, from loose components to worn taping heads. Discover quick solutions to restore tape application and resolve jams. Get advice to proactively maintain and care for your equipment to maximize uptime. With a helpful FAQ section, you’ll find answers to frequent box taping questions and steps to troubleshoot specific issues. Follow these tips to keep your box taping machine taping optimally.
With competitive price and timely delivery, Zhongfu Packaging sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.
Common Box Taping Machine Issues and How to Fix Them
Feeding and Tension Problems
Issues with inconsistent tape feeding or improper tension are common and can be frustrating. First, check that the tape spool is properly installed and spinning freely. Clean the tape path and ensure the tension arm is applying even pressure. If problems persist, it may indicate worn or damaged parts which should be serviced by a technician.
Noisy Operation
Excessive noise from the machine can indicate several problems and should be addressed to avoid damage. Most often, it signifies lack of lubrication or buildup of adhesive residue. Apply lubricating oil to all moving parts like gears, shafts, and bearings. Clean any tape residue from the cutting blade, rollers, and other surfaces. If noise continues after lubricating and cleaning, worn or misaligned parts may need replacement or adjustment by a service technician.
Frequent Jamming
Tape jams are inconvenient and reduce productivity. They are usually caused by improper loading, dull cutting blades, or worn or dirty parts. Ensure tape rolls are correctly loaded and unwinding freely. Have cutting blades sharpened or replaced if needed. Clean and lubricate all moving parts to minimize friction. Check that the tape path is clear of debris. Making these adjustments should significantly reduce jam frequency. If problems continue, it indicates more serious issues requiring professional servicing.
By properly maintaining your box taping equipment with frequent cleaning, lubrication, and part replacement as needed, you can avoid many common issues and keep your machine running efficiently for maximum uptime and productivity. Be sure to consult the product manual for specific servicing instructions and schedules to optimize performance and longevity.
Proper Tape Application Techniques for Optimal Seals
Ensure the tape path is clear of debris.
Before applying tape, inspect the box surface and tape path to ensure it's free of dust, dirt or product residue. Wipe away any debris to allow the tape to fully adhere to the surface.
Apply firm pressure when sealing the box.
Press down firmly along the entire length of tape with the palm of your hand or a roller to activate the adhesive and create an optimal seal. Light pressure will not activate the adhesive sufficiently and can result in an inadequate seal.
Seal all seams and edges completely.
Seal the opening flaps, then apply tape to all remaining seams and edges of the box to securely close it. Tape over any perforated areas as needed. For heavier boxes, apply multiple strips of tape or reinforce seams and edges with water-activated tape.
Consider using water-activated tape for heavier items.
If sealing a heavy or bulky item, water-activated tape provides a stronger seal than standard packaging tape. The water-activated adhesive requires moisture to activate it, creating an extremely durable bond once dried. Apply as directed, then let boxes sit undisturbed as the bond dries completely.
FAQs
The tape isn't sticking well. What should I do? Check that the tape path is clean and dry, then apply firm and even pressure along the entire strip of tape. If still not sticking, the tape may have lost adhesion or be inappropriate for the surface. Replace the tape.
How can I improve tape adhesion to difficult surfaces? Lightly score smooth surfaces like plastics to give the tape texture to grip. For powdery or porous surfaces, wipe away excess material before taping. A more aggressive adhesive like water-activated tape can also help.
How do I prevent excess tape use? Only apply as much tape as needed to securely seal the box. Do not overlap tape strips excessively. Use tape dispensers with cutters to cut tape efficiently to the needed length.
With the proper techniques and maintenance, your box taping equipment will run smoothly and efficiently. Consistently monitoring performance and making minor adjustments as needed will help optimize your box sealing operations in the long run.
Maintaining Your Case Sealer for Peak Performance
To keep your case sealing equipment running smoothly, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. Neglecting necessary upkeep can reduce performance and longevity, leading to costly repairs or replacements down the road.
Lubricate Components
The moving parts of case sealers, like chains, gears, and bearings, need to be properly lubricated to function efficiently. Refer to your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended lubricant and application schedule. Clean and lubricate parts after every 8 hours of use.
Inspect and Replace Worn or Damaged Parts
Inspect the machine before each use for any worn or damaged components like sealing pads, tapes, belts, or wheels and replace as needed. Worn parts won’t seal cases properly and can damage contents or the machine itself. Perform more thorough monthly inspections to catch issues early.
Clean Regularly
Built-up dirt, debris, and residue can negatively impact your case sealer’s performance and longevity. Wipe down the entire machine after each use to remove any dust or debris. For tough to remove buildup, use a commercial degreaser according to directions. Monthly deep cleaning may require disassembling some parts to access all areas.
Test and Calibrate
To ensure your case sealer is working properly, test it regularly using the manufacturer's guidelines. Check that it's accurately detecting case sizes, properly sealing, and applying the correct amount of tape. Calibrate as needed to optimize performance. Monthly testing and calibration, along with proper maintenance and care, will keep your case sealer running like new for years to come.
FAQ
Q: How often should I lubricate my case sealer? A: Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended lubrication schedule. As a general rule, lubricate moving parts after every 8 hours of use.
Want more information on Adhesive Tape Packaging Machine? Feel free to contact us.
Recommended article:Buyer's Guide for Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine - Finopack
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The Role of Technology in Industrial Waste Recycling
Q: What parts typically need replacement? A: The parts most commonly needing replacement are sealing pads, tapes, belts, and wheels. Inspect these before each use and replace as needed.
Q: How can I improve my case sealer’s performance? A: Regular maintenance like lubricating, cleaning, inspecting, testing, and calibrating your case sealer according to the manufacturer’s recommendations will optimize its performance and longevity.
Adjusting Settings on an Industrial Box Taping Machine
To ensure optimal performance of your industrial box taping machine, it’s important to understand how to properly adjust the settings. The correct tension, sealant temperature, and conveyor belt speed will help maximize throughput and minimize downtime.
Tape Tension
Tape tension refers to how tightly the tape is applied to the boxes. If the tension is too loose, the tape won’t properly seal the box, but if it’s too tight, it can damage the contents or tear the box. Most standard box taping machines have a tension dial or knob that can be adjusted. Start with the recommended setting for your box specifications and contents, then make minor adjustments up or down until you achieve secure sealing without damage.
Sealant Temperature
For adhesive tape, the sealant temperature impacts how well the adhesive sticks to the box. If the sealant is too cold, it won’t bond properly. If it’s too hot, it can become stringy and damage the tape roll or applicator head. Refer to your tape specifications to determine the optimal sealant temperature range. Then use the temperature controller on your box taping machine to set the appropriate temperature. Give the machine adequate time to heat up to the correct temperature before running boxes through.
Conveyor Belt Speed
The speed of the conveyor belt determines how quickly boxes move through the taping machine. If the belt speed is too fast, the tape may not seal properly before the box exits the machine. If it’s too slow, it can reduce your throughput and productivity. Most box taping machines offer variable speed control so you can set the optimal pace for your operations. Start at a moderate speed and run some test boxes through, then make adjustments up or down until you achieve strong, secure tape application at your target throughput rate.
By taking the time to properly adjust the key settings on your industrial box taping machine, you'll ensure it operates safely and efficiently for optimal performance and productivity. Be sure to also regularly inspect and maintain the machine according to the manufacturer's recommendations. With some ongoing care and oversight, your box taping machine can provide many years of reliable service.
FAQs on Troubleshooting Box Taping Machines
Why is my box taping machine jamming or tearing tape?
There are a few common reasons why box taping machines may jam or tear tape:
-
Dull or damaged tape blades: The blades that cut the tape can become dull over time and with heavy use, causing the tape to jam or tear. Replace your tape blades every 3-6 months to prevent issues.
-
Incorrect tape tension: If the tape tension is too loose, the tape won’t adhere properly and may jam. If too tight, it can cause the tape to tear. Adjust the tape tension dial to the recommended setting for optimal performance.
-
Buildup of adhesive or debris: Excess adhesive or debris on the tape path or blades can cause the tape to stick and jam. Clean your box taping machine regularly with a solvent like isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth.
-
Incorrect tape size: Using a tape size that is too wide or narrow for your machine can lead to jamming, tearing or poor adhesion. Always use the recommended tape size for your specific box taping machine model.
How can I improve the longevity of my box taping machine?
To keep your box taping machine running well for years to come, follow these best practices:
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Perform regular maintenance: Clean your machine regularly, replace tape blades every 3-6 months and inspect/replace any worn or damaged parts as needed.
-
Use high-quality tape: Choose a reputable brand of packaging tape that is specifically designed for automated box sealing machines. Lower quality tape is more prone to jamming, tearing and poor adhesion.
-
Keep it lubricated: Apply a small amount of lubricating oil to rotating parts like rollers to prevent friction and keep parts moving freely. Wipe away any excess oil to avoid buildup.
-
Avoid overheating: Allow your box taping machine to rest for 15-30 minutes after 2-3 hours of continuous operation. Overheating can cause damage to electrical components and the motor.
-
Train operators properly: Ensure anyone operating the box taping machine has been properly trained on setup, operation and troubleshooting. Proper operation and maintenance is key to longevity.
-
Perform periodic inspections: Have a certified technician perform inspections of your box taping machine every 6-12 months to detect any potential issues early and perform necessary repairs or maintenance. Preventive action will minimize downtime and costs.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Shrink Wrap Packaging Machine. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
Conclusion
Crash course 101 on adhesive tape (typoe of scotch tape David ...
links to myself being in UK (where I could be improved by having an improvement then just using/having 1 regular roll of Sellotape - you understand
Research/facts about scotch tape.
Draft one of writing:
ITM
Post about scotch tape on david allen forum.
I see something in book to get:
Is scotch tape.
At first - didn’t actually know what it was, but must be linked to Sellotape.
This related to myself - because myself I just have one Sellotape in my bedroom regular type, which maybe doesn’t have best stickiness.
And has the issue - when use it , when stopped using it - you forget where the end of Sellotape was (unless you fold it and make a note to always fold it) - Ive see sold/advertised before type “Sellotape dispenser”.
"-maybe I could get something a uk type Sellotape dispenser and just use that instead of scotch tape?"
Myself tim was thinking of using Sellotape for specific reason related to diet? E.g. I was thinking literally - using tape on top paper note to note the weight of item used to hold foods (on top of scale) for tracking macros- should note weight of everything used, for this I need some kind of transparent tape (so doesn’t get washed off the label when trying washing up the equipment) - you understand?
What else would Sellotape or tape or scotch tape have uses for for persons? Should I be using more? For packaging stuff (don’t do that much) maybe … - gon right don’t really do that much designing stuff myself ,so not sure has complete use for myself to invest in tape? [end of paragraphs writing about What use tape for).
When searched online I see “Scotch Tape is a brand name used for pressure-sensitive tapes developed by 3M.
[Scotch tape | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary] https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/scotch-tape
Its just a brand of a usa tape - so david properly put it in book being from America (but - its also possible use other tapes styles/brands instead - why didn’t david just write tape in the book?)
[Scotch Tape - Wikipedia] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scotch_Tape]
[Tapes (scotchbrand.com)] on the official website have 3 different main sub types of tape [https://www.scotchbrand.com/3M/en_US/scotch-brand/products/all-tape/clear-tape/]
So scotch tape clear is basically same as Sellotape in UK? Or very similar. [in conclusion scotch and Sellotape are types of adhesive tape - maybe allen would have been better writing adhesive tape in book]
*I also personally have 1 black tape (small diameter) and 1 thick black duct tape (large diameter) which I barely use
end question poll below
Idea occurred make a poll for users reading in this thread series - should I try something:
- Obtain some type normal Sellotape normal quality not low quality.
- Obtain sellotape with a tape dispenser not low quality.
- Try purchase online some scotch tape brand which is shipped overseas(so worse for environment.
The purpose of this post - is for myself to gain knowledge/understand of what actually scotch or adhesive tape is.
,clarify the uses of it, what would use it for (does it have practical application).
Is it worth I invest in better product right now.
By making this post - I could also help other users using internet (do same thing of gain knowledge of three points written above (because when searched scotch or adhesive tape myself I couldn’t actually find anything - a specific forum post about this topic.
I would be very happy if other uses added and interacted ideas about this post.
I think I have cleared up all the 5 Ws of English in this post.
Anything else - make note at end of it .
Myself tim would be willing to totally delete this one post off forum and re write it (if users agree it makes sense because this post is low quality).
This image attached (did it first time for some reason, just pasted from weblink upload (why is that this happens I don't know))
I show Pic just took trying say what about writing here: that my sellotape doesn't have best stickiness .
2 other problem is that having find end of the tape (which is why tape dispensers were invented) I see most tape dispensers (are for smaller sized sellotapes?) so need research - unless you write some note "to leave a fold on your Sellotape" my mother was saying.
When I was talking to her about this topic - first thing says is that don't need scotch tape, its American tape ...
[https://www.bing.com/search?pglt=67...YQNIBCDcwNDZqMGoxqAIAsAIA&FORM=ANNTA1&PC=HCTS] If I search tape dispenser UK in to my browser things come up - mostly for smaller sized tape - there are some which look normal size - you probably if buy sellotape dispenser - it probably has to be used with a specific type of branded sellotape to work properly, unlikely that it will just fit any regular sellotape
+so if have sellotape which is sub optimal 8cm diameter -makes sense I could get new Sellotape as well.
W STN?
and users @René Lie or @Mrs-Polifax or @gtdstudente "to start with 9 red lines Dear @TimBourne:
You say David Allen recommends scotch tape on his list of office supplies. Scotch tape is a brand name of the 3M company. However, "scotch tape" has become a generic name in the U.S. for any invisible or transparent tape that sticks, so it is not a special kind of tape from the U.S. I don't know what kind of tape you have in the U.K., but I am guessing it should work fine.
Since you can't think of any use you have for tape right now, you could wait to buy tape until you do have a use in mind for tape. This would save money on office supplies.
However, since you say the big rolls of tape you now have lack stickiness, which is an essential feature of tape, you could buy one roll of normally sticky tape now, in case a need for it arises, and you could wait to buy more tape until later, if needed.
If you do decide to buy one roll of tape now, then you could also buy one tape dispenser for that roll. This would prevent the cut end of the tape from sticking to itself, which would spare you unnecessary frustration.
I use invisible tape, which has a matte finish, meaning that it is dull or non-reflective and not shiny. I buy this size: 0.75 inches wide by inches long (19 mm wide x 32.9 m long). It has a one-inch core (hole) in the center. This is typical scotch tape used for everyday things. Here is a link to one roll of this size and kind of tape:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I like to use a small, lightweight, hand-held tape dispenser for my tape. This dispenser fits the tape mentioned above. The dispenser does not include tape. Here's a link to the dispenser I have and use:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You may not need some of the supplies David Allen recommends. For instance, having a label maker would be a convenience and would save time. However, if costs are a concern, you can manage without a label maker, and when you need labels, you can print them from a printer or hand print them.
To print labels legibly by hand, it helps a lot to slow down, take a deep breath, and take your time. A good marker or pen makes a big difference. One pen I use for dark legible lines is a black Sakura Pigma Graphic 1.0 mm pen. Here is a link to the Sakura pen:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When I had a laser printer, I used Avery file folder labels. These are long, narrow, half-letter size sheets of labels. These Avery file folder labels are about 3.4 inches wide x 0.66 inches high, and they fit on manila file folders with 1/3 cut tabs. I had more options than a label maker usually offers because I was printing them from MS Word, which has lots of font choices. I think these labels were a lot less expensive than label-maker tape, and they looked very legible and neat. It was easy to print them from the auxilliary paper tray without removing paper from the main tray. However, I think a label-maker is faster and more convenient because an organizing coach I knew highly recommended using one. Here is a link to these Avery labels:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thats all for now.
Best wishes, @TimBourne
Emily Polifax
Dear @TimBourne:
You say David Allen recommends scotch tape on his list of office supplies. Scotch tape is a brand name of the 3M company. However, "scotch tape" has become a generic name in the U.S. for any invisible or transparent tape that sticks, so it is not a special kind of tape from the U.S. I don't know what kind of tape you have in the U.K., but I am guessing it should work fine.
Since you can't think of any use you have for tape right now, you could wait to buy tape until you do have a use in mind for tape. This would save money on office supplies.
However, since you say the big rolls of tape you now have lack stickiness, which is an essential feature of tape, you could buy one roll of normally sticky tape now, in case a need for it arises, and you could wait to buy more tape until later, if needed.
If you do decide to buy one roll of tape now, then you could also buy one tape dispenser for that roll. This would prevent the cut end of the tape from sticking to itself, which would spare you unnecessary frustration.
I use invisible tape, which has a matte finish, meaning that it is dull or non-reflective and not shiny. I buy this size: 0.75 inches wide by inches long (19 mm wide x 32.9 m long). It has a one-inch core (hole) in the center. This is typical scotch tape used for everyday things. Here is a link to one roll of this size and kind of tape:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I like to use a small, lightweight, hand-held tape dispenser for my tape. This dispenser fits the tape mentioned above. The dispenser does not include tape. Here's a link to the dispenser I have and use:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You may not need some of the supplies David Allen recommends. For instance, having a label maker would be a convenience and would save time. However, if costs are a concern, you can manage without a label maker, and when you need labels, you can print them from a printer or hand print them.
To print labels legibly by hand, it helps a lot to slow down, take a deep breath, and take your time. A good marker or pen makes a big difference. One pen I use for dark legible lines is a black Sakura Pigma Graphic 1.0 mm pen. Here is a link to the Sakura pen:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When I had a laser printer, I used Avery file folder labels. These are long, narrow, half-letter size sheets of labels. These Avery file folder labels are about 3.4 inches wide x 0.66 inches high, and they fit on manila file folders with 1/3 cut tabs. I had more options than a label maker usually offers because I was printing them from MS Word, which has lots of font choices. I think these labels were a lot less expensive than label-maker tape, and they looked very legible and neat. It was easy to print them from the auxilliary paper tray without removing paper from the main tray. However, I think a label-maker is faster and more convenient because an organizing coach I knew highly recommended using one. Here is a link to these Avery labels:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thats all for now.
Best wishes, @TimBourne
Emily Polifax
"However, "scotch tape" has become a generic name in the U.S. for any invisible or transparent tape that sticks, so it is not a special kind of tape from the U.S." Yeah - that's what my mother claimed that is US only, but told her that it is a brand.
In the U.K. Sellotape (transparent tape) is popular brand - Can I just order this instead?
"ait to buy tape until you do have a use in mind for tape. This would save money on office supplies." Yeah but what other supplies would help myself?
"rolls of tape you now have lack stickiness, which is an essential feature of tape, you could buy one roll of normally sticky tape now," it was just the 1 tape shown in picture transparent sellotape which said that for - probably because its old? True I could get a new one right now or later?
"also buy one tape dispenser for that roll. " yeah I would have to get the right sized dispenser, searched about that a bit...
Never herd of invisible tape.
I had searched "label maker" into net - comes up results different machines?
Not so long ago - was sorting through all my pens in room, trying to categorise them a certain amount.
I mean clicked open the hyper links you shared:
The one of tape dispenser is too small for any tape have right now.
P.S. thought came to mind I bought a while ago and still have "sticky labels" cheap from amazon - type of paper labels which have a stick side also (about 3x5cm maybe 20 on a sheet you can peel off)
I think yea right now I'm just - can do labels by hand? Don't use labelling that much, but these sticky labels aren't best quality. For example they may peel off (what stick them on after maybe few days) (which is why I put Sellotape on them also - so its worth I get better new Sellotape?)
I scanned over your writing maybe three times now.
Thanks for the detailed reply to this thread, clarifying things about adhesive tape. l'
Just to confirm Sellotape is the main brand in the UK, but you can also get 3M's Scotch tape. Both are good quality. Shops like WHSmith also sell their own brands. I usually get Sellotape or Scotch tape, whichever is the cheapest and fits my dispenser. I don't trust own brands as they are often thin and tear easily, or don't stick very well. I've just been googling for large tape dispensers in the Uk, and there are hardly any available. Ryman's stationers has one - see https://www.ryman.co.uk/ryman-tape-dispenser-large . There are probably some on Amazon UK, but I try to avoid Amazon where possible. Lots of places sell the smaller sized sellotape ready fitted in a disposable dispenser. Unless you use lots and lots of sellotape the smaller roll should be enough. Mine lasts for ages - I mostly use it when I'm making a parcel to post.
ITM and also @m
You're welcome, @TimBourne!
*"see there is option this fourm - double quote (or more than one quote in a thread - never used before*
words were I didn't get notified of these posts
Ruth here gives suggestion of Rayman brand - never herd of that, says link was out of stock
1 one
I had thought updating this thread drag and dropping pictures
explaining literally I obtained from shop I work at - type of ne Sellotape role - cheap good quality, local just one pound
* 1 = side showing offical brand sellotape image, below showing (what wrote about in previous post - about trying using sellotape
Picture after that shows type normal sellotape compared to offical brand new version
the final picture above - shows type line of selopate (hanging from desk - a bad habit that just left a strand...
These next 2 images: show also what writing about in previous thread (that one of uses for this tape: is to put on these type cheapo "sticky labels" I got lots from amazon (because lost stickiness, don't work)... - showing myself trying label type pencil cases in bedroom (but still came off because of problem of Sellotape I was having
here quote from wrote to mother "
next actions for tape
Are you sure that Poundland should - have type of dispenser used for normal sized Sellotape? is it something which is shown on website? - if wanted to do look at in shop should measure it and see it matches to regular tape size you think?
IWA think - with two other sellotapes which don't work don't work so well well at all put downstairs in cupboard , it could also be worth donate them since "
STN SV
P.S. background thoughts which came back to myself , while previewing this post
I'm using this as a memento/cue that investing more in sellotape links to an action: using sellotape to try to pack/package types items - on online auction websites such as e-bay - which is something myself having Voice thoughts I should do more off to be better financially and help mother earth etc
That I recently since moving - tried using facebook market place list items locally for selling online and doesn't seem work so well, so maybe go back to e-bay ???
Because thats a use for tape/Sellotape which occurred to myself
" idea/question : what other uses for Sellotape are there
"NA when x responds could be adding more tags to this post such as charity/ethics and packaging/sellingonline
"STN x3
Dear @TimBourne:
You say David Allen recommends scotch tape on his list of office supplies. Scotch tape is a brand name of the 3M company. However, "scotch tape" has become a generic name in the U.S. for any invisible or transparent tape that sticks, so it is not a special kind of tape from the U.S. I don't know what kind of tape you have in the U.K., but I am guessing it should work fine.
Since you can't think of any use you have for tape right now, you could wait to buy tape until you do have a use in mind for tape. This would save money on office supplies.
However, since you say the big rolls of tape you now have lack stickiness, which is an essential feature of tape, you could buy one roll of normally sticky tape now, in case a need for it arises, and you could wait to buy more tape until later, if needed.
If you do decide to buy one roll of tape now, then you could also buy one tape dispenser for that roll. This would prevent the cut end of the tape from sticking to itself, which would spare you unnecessary frustration.
I use invisible tape, which has a matte finish, meaning that it is dull or non-reflective and not shiny. I buy this size: 0.75 inches wide by inches long (19 mm wide x 32.9 m long). It has a one-inch core (hole) in the center. This is typical scotch tape used for everyday things. Here is a link to one roll of this size and kind of tape:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I like to use a small, lightweight, hand-held tape dispenser for my tape. This dispenser fits the tape mentioned above. The dispenser does not include tape. Here's a link to the dispenser I have and use:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You may not need some of the supplies David Allen recommends. For instance, having a label maker would be a convenience and would save time. However, if costs are a concern, you can manage without a label maker, and when you need labels, you can print them from a printer or hand print them.
To print labels legibly by hand, it helps a lot to slow down, take a deep breath, and take your time. A good marker or pen makes a big difference. One pen I use for dark legible lines is a black Sakura Pigma Graphic 1.0 mm pen. Here is a link to the Sakura pen:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When I had a laser printer, I used Avery file folder labels. These are long, narrow, half-letter size sheets of labels. These Avery file folder labels are about 3.4 inches wide x 0.66 inches high, and they fit on manila file folders with 1/3 cut tabs. I had more options than a label maker usually offers because I was printing them from MS Word, which has lots of font choices. I think these labels were a lot less expensive than label-maker tape, and they looked very legible and neat. It was easy to print them from the auxilliary paper tray without removing paper from the main tray. However, I think a label-maker is faster and more convenient because an organizing coach I knew highly recommended using one. Here is a link to these Avery labels:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thats all for now.
Best wishes, @TimBourne
Emily Polifax
'
You say David Allen recommends scotch tape on his list of office supplies. Scotch tape is a brand name of the 3M company. However, "scotch tape" has become a generic name in the U.S. for any invisible or transparent tape that sticks, so it is not a special kind of tape from the U.S. I don't know what kind of tape you have in the U.K., but I am guessing it should work fine.'
said
"
I came back to this after I got some
do you know what is "scotch giftwrap" , that is the type I got " s @TimBourne:
Hi, Tim.
I've never used Scotch Gift Wrap Tape, so I don't know anything about this Product. However, I found a link that might help.
Tape does have minor but definite importance because it serves a useful function, and many of us use it. However, if your tape sticks, which is its function, and if it is fast and easy to use (possibly with an appropriate dispenser), and if it does not frustrate, annoy, or bother you in any way, then I think your selection of tape is fine. There is no reason to spend more of your precious time on tape, unless you believe that researching tape is an important use of your time.
I want to remind you of your purpose: You wanted to get tape because it is on the list of office supplies in David Allen's book. He suggested that those are the basic office supplies needed by most people who want to create a GTD system. Your purpose was to get the office supplies you need, so you can start your GTD system.
Is this stlll what you want to do?
If so, I would view getting the office supplies you need to set up your GTD system as a Project. Your Desired Outcome (which is where you want to end up, or what "done" will look like when you get there) could be this: you have acquired all the basic office supplies you need to start a GTD system, and you are feeling happy and satisfied with these office supplies.
I believe that your first Next Action for this Project was to buy tape. I believe you have tape now that works fine and does not bother you in any way. In that case. you are done with your first Next Action. I seem to recall that you once got an Inbox, so you may have acquired certain other office supplies, and if so, you may have already completed other Next Actions on this Project.
What office supply item do you want to acquire next? You can add acquiring that item to your Next Actions list now, so you can begin to move this Project forward toward your Desired Outcome.
I'm not sure you have a Next Actions list yet. If not, get out an A4 page and write NEXT ACTIONS at the top. Below that start a list, and enter the first item on the list this way: "Go shopping for a two-pocket red folder at Office Discount Warehouse and list the prices found." (You will need to substitute the office supply item you want and your local store in the underlined places).
You can see here that the Next Action is very specific. It is not "Buy X" but clarfies more specfically what exactly you need to do, so you are not left with more decisions to make when you choose a Next Action. This is really very interesting because things can be broken down to an even more granular small level, so the question is: how much breaking down is really needed? I guess exeprience is the best teacher about this.
Where will you put your Next Actions List so you can find it? For now, put it anywhere you will easily be able to find it again. Gradually, as you keep working on setting up your GTD system, you will be creating spaces in your room to hold all the things that need homes.
Here is one idea for a place to put your Next Actions List, so you can find it at the moment. This is a red two-pocket folder. It is easy to find because of the red color, and if you buy it as a single item, it is not is costly. See the link below:
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Hope this helps!
Warmly,
Emily
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