metal tack strips

[seatbuilder]

Hi everyone. I have a pile of metal tack strip pieces, I was wondering if anyone has come up with a way of attaching two or more pieces together so they don't have to be thrown away? I find limited opportunity to use these small strips.

On another note. I ran out of plastic covers for these strips and didn't have time to wait for delivery. I put 1" masking tape on the back and folded it over. Lies flatter than with the plastic and leaves no raised marks.

Seatmaker

[sofadoc]

I was going to say that I use the plastic sleeves to join small pieces together. But other than that, I don't know of any way to join them.

I usually throw small pieces into a box, and use them on short runs when I can. Sometimes you can staple them to the back of a wood, or covered panel.

Something else I do. When I break off a metal nailstrip, it leaves a sharp edge. I use the grinding wheel to smooth it off. This way, I can use it without a sleeve if I need to.

I've done the masking tape thing a lot. Sometimes, the plastic sleeve is too thick for certain areas.

[seatbuilder]

Thanks. I think I will try epoxy and a splint. Sounds weird but Industrial plastics says it will work.
I never thought of using the plastic cover to hold them together. I will give it try.

[scott_san_diego]

I have used a cardboard strip to go on top of the metal tack strip with masking tape to hold it in place.  Works great.

[MinUph]

You can also just place them together and use it that way. As long as they are in line it works fine. I find the plastic covers are thick but I do use them in Florida fearing rust. Never used them up north though. With the plastic sleeves it is easy to add like Sofa says.

[Darren Henry]

When I break off a metal nailstrip, it leaves a sharp edge

I was taught (and therefore have always) cut mine with tin snips. If you have the points facing past the bottom jaw the top side will be burr free. I have on occasion nipped the corners off after a cut to avoid a sharp corner.

[kodydog]

Save them. Some day you will get a job that will require a whole bunch of short tack strips.

[MinUph]

4 tacks or less i throw away. I stack them in the plastic to use them up.