Gaffer Tapes and Adhesive Tapes for Theater, Stage, and Event Technology

The TÜCHLER range of adhesive tapes covers typical requirements in theatre, stage construction, event technology, and trade fair operations – from fixing and marking to cable management. Gaffer tape is used for routing cables, securing edges, or creating temporary fixings where hand-tearability and residue-free removal are essential; duct tape is added for heavy-duty applications. Fabric tape serves as a versatile base, from hand-tearable to high-strength variants, while cloth tape with a true textile surface is suitable for use on fabrics such as molton and horizon cloth (Mollino), and also works well on paintable surfaces or for chromakey applications. Complementary options include marking tape, spike tape (insulating tape), UV-reactive and phosphorescent glow-in-the-dark tapes, as well as cable tunnel tape with edge adhesive and a glue-free center section to keep cables clean and allow for repositioning. For floor setups, the range includes double-sided tapes, tacky mesh for flooring and carpets, and low-profile dance floor tapes designed for seamless transitions without a “brake edge.” Also available are glossy (black, white, mirror-silver) and transparent tapes for show floors and mirror stages.

Gaffer tapes are cloth-backed adhesive tapes with a matte surface, specifically designed for use in event and stage technology. Key features include residue-free removal and easy hand-tearability both across and along the tape.

Typical applications: temporary cable routing, covering reflective surfaces, securing technical components, and marking positions on dark stage floors.

At TÜCHLER, we understand that every project is unique. That’s why we offer our flame-retardant mirrors and mirror foils not only by the metre or as sheet material, but also as custom solutions – right up to full installation. Whether you're designing a spectacular show stage, outfitting a TV studio, or creating an unforgettable party atmosphere, our products are tailored to meet your specific requirements.

Fabric tape is a general term for cloth-based carriers with various coatings and adhesives. It covers a wide range – from hand-tearable to high-strength, from matte to glossy finishes.

Cloth tape is a type of fabric tape with a true textile surface. It is especially matte and soft, making it ideal for use on fabrics. It is commonly used to repair tears, for example in molton. The white version of this tape can be painted easily, making it suitable for joining surfaces like horizon cloths (e.g. Mollinos) or other materials intended for painting. This makes cloth tape an excellent choice for applications involving chromakey colours as well.

In theatre terminology, "zumble tape" refers to the practice of bundling or grouping cables (“zumbling”). In practical use, this is typically insulating tape: stretchable, easy to wrap around cable sheaths, and ideal for cable management during setup and positioning.

Phosphorescent tape (glow-in-the-dark) is used for highly visible marking in low-light environments. Typical applications include step edges, platform edges, pathway guidance, hazard areas, and orientation points in backstage zones, on stages, or in venues. The tape charges using ambient or work lighting and glows in the dark, ensuring that markings remain visible during blackouts, scene changes, or low-light conditions.

Fluorescent tapes (neon tapes) are used when markings need to be quickly and clearly visible under normal lighting and stage lighting. Typical applications include position marking on stage and rehearsal floors, pathway identification, zone marking, case and equipment labelling, as well as colour-coding for scene changes, departments, or setups. Under UV light (blacklight), fluorescent colours glow intensely, making them highly visible even in dark environments. Unlike phosphorescent tapes, however, fluorescent tapes do not glow after the lights go out – they are only effective while illuminated.Fluorescent tapes (neon tapes) are used when markings need to be quickly and clearly visible under normal lighting and stage lighting. Typical applications include position marking on stage and rehearsal floors, pathway identification, zone marking, case and equipment labelling, as well as colour-coding for scene changes, departments, or setups. Under UV light (blacklight), fluorescent colours glow intensely, making them highly visible even in dark environments. Unlike phosphorescent tapes, however, fluorescent tapes do not glow after the lights go out – they are only effective while illuminated.

Cable tunnel tape is used to cover and route single or multiple cables neatly across stage and venue floors, especially in walkways. The tape adheres only along the edges, while the center remains adhesive-free, ensuring that no glue comes into contact with the cables. This keeps cable jackets clean and allows cables to be repositioned or replaced without removing the entire “tunnel.” Typical versions are available in black for a discreet look or in high-visibility warning designs when a more noticeable covering is required.

Double-sided tapes are used when components or coverings need to be fixed in place without visible adhesive surfaces. Typical applications include temporary installation of floor coverings (e.g. carpet, dance floor, or showfloor), securing mats, trims, transitions, or structural elements in stage and exhibition setups. Depending on the type, options range from high-adhesion variants to tapes designed for sensitive surfaces where substrate protection is a priority. Key selection criteria include the type of substrate, duration of use, load exposure (foot traffic, rolling carts), and the surface’s sensitivity to adhesive residue.

For temporary or permanent fixation of carpets and floor coverings. These tapes work like a sticky note – providing temporary or longer-term adhesion – and can be removed even after extended use with little to no adhesive residue (depending on the substrate and level of use).

Dance floor tapes are specifically designed for use with vinyl dance surfaces. They provide a slip-resistance level similar or identical to that of the dance floor itself, ensuring virtually seamless transitions with no noticeable edges – allowing dancers to move safely and confidently.

Glossy tapes are used when the adhesive is meant to remain visible or intentionally become part of the surface design. Typical applications include glossy dance floors, showfloors, and mirror floors – for example, to cover edges, transitions, or visible fixings where a smooth, reflective finish is desired. Common variants include black, white, and mirror-like silver, coordinated with set designs, lighting concepts, and surface requirements.

Transparent tapes are used when an adhesive joint should remain as discreet as possible or when a colour-matched tape is not available. Typical applications include fixings and coverings on visible surfaces, securing edges and transitions, and temporary installations where the colour or texture of the substrate must remain visible. Depending on the version, they are suitable for smooth surfaces, films, plastics, or coated materials, and are chosen where a clear appearance is more important than a matte, low-reflection finish.

The adhesive base influences tack, removability, ageing behaviour, and storage life:

Natural Rubber (NR)
Commonly chosen when substrate protection and clean removal after use are key. Proven in practice on sensitive floors and high-quality stage surfaces (e.g. sealed wood, coated stage floors).

Synthetic Rubber (SR)
Advantageous for long shelf life and stable performance over extended storage periods (e.g. for rentals or equipment storage). Residue-free removal depends heavily on substrate, duration, temperature, and applied pressure.

Blends
Depending on the manufacturer and product, hybrid adhesive systems may be used to combine properties (e.g. adhesion + storage stability). Selection should be based on actual performance on the intended surface.

Important: More adhesive strength is not always better—especially when floor protection or residue-free removal is a priority.

Carrier
Fabric / Textile Backing: Determines the tape’s stability, form behaviour, and handling.
Mesh (Fabric Density): Indicates the weave structure (in simple terms: how dense/robust the fabric is). A higher mesh count can improve edge stability and tear resistance.

Adhesive Base
Natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or blends. Key for adhesion performance, substrate compatibility, residue behaviour, and storage life.

Adhesion Strength
Indicated in N/cm or N/25 mm.
Specifies the force required to peel the tape from a defined standard surface.

Tensile Strength
Indicated in N/cm or N/25 mm.
Describes the pulling force the tape can withstand before breaking – important for mechanical stress.

Elongation at Break
Indicated in %.
Shows how much the tape can stretch before it breaks – relevant for curved surfaces, bundling, and flexible applications.

Temperature Resistance
Indicated in °C.
The temperature range in which the tape is expected to maintain performance (relevant for exposure to stage light heat, cold venues, or outdoor setups).

For applications with glossy dance floors, showfloors, or mirror floors – such as coverings, edges, visual transitions, or visible joints where a deliberately glossy surface is desired.

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