What is veneer tape? Common veneer tape is a thin paper tape with an acid free gum adhesive on one side. Most kinds have a series of punched holes.
How do I use veneer tape? The adhesive on veneer tape is activated by water, similar to the glue used on an envelope. An easy way to apply the tape to your veneer is to hold the tape in one hand, put a small container of water with a sponge in it on your worktable, and pull the tape over the wet sponge with your other hand. You want to wet the tape to activate the adhesive, but not soak it.
Why should I use veneer tape instead of other tapes? It is possible to achieve a good veneer joint using other kinds of tape, however the greatest advantage to using actual veneer tape is that as it dries, it shrinks slightly, thereby pulling your joint seams closer together.
Why does veneer tape have holes? One reason veneer tape has holes is to help you see the joint line that you are taping over. This is most useful when the tape has holes along the center line (unlike the picture above). Another reason veneer tape has holes is so that there is less tape material to remove after you have pressed workpiece.
How do I remove veneer tape? Start by lightly wetting the veneer tape. This will reactivate the adhesive. Do not soak the tape, as you may cause damage to the veneer. Just put enough water, easily done with a sponge, to loosen the tape. Most of the tape will be able to peeled off in this matter. Then remove the remaining tape by using a paint scraper. Any other little bits can be sanded off.
The tape left marks all over my veneer, now what? It is normal to see the image impression of the veneer tape holes on your veneer after the tape is taken off. The veneer must be sanded properly now, and all the marks left by the tape will be removed.