Material Blog

Laser Cut Grip Tape: A Comprehensive Guide

Can you laser cut grip tape?

Yes, laser cutting grip tape is indeed possible, offering remarkable speed and precision that transforms traditional processing methods. While common tools like vinyl cutters and manual cutting blades have been standard, laser cutting brings unprecedented accuracy and efficiency to grip tape processing.

However, grip tape laser cutting isn’t without challenges – the material’s abrasive surface and adhesive backing can potentially generate harmful fumes, risk equipment damage. Despite these considerations, laser cutting opens up exciting possibilities for intricate designs and custom patterns that were previously difficult or impossible to achieve. By understanding and mitigating the potential risks with this article, you can unlock a new world of creative potential in grip tape fabrication.

Can you laser engrave grip tape?

Yes, but laser engraving grip tape is less common compared to cutting it. This is because engraving on the rough, abrasive surface of grip tape has limited applications and can produce uneven results. Most users prefer to laser cut grip tape for custom shapes or patterns, as cutting offers cleaner and more versatile outcomes suitable for a wide range of projects.

Advantages of laser cut grip tape

The advantages of laser cutting grip tape can be primarily attributed to the capabilities of CNC laser cutters:

Grip tape is essentially a hard paper material with a tough, non-slip layer that defines its primary function. This inherent hardness traditionally makes it challenging to cut using conventional methods.

While traditional grip tape cutting relied on manual tools, these approaches quickly encountered significant limitations due to the abrasive surface embedded with high-hardness particles, which caused rapid tool wear and increased cutting costs.

Laser cutting revolutionizes this process by offering a completely different approach. By focusing a laser beam onto the product surface and heating the material, laser cutters can precisely cut grip tape without physical contact. This non-contact cutting method not only reduces tool wear to practically zero but also dramatically improves cutting precision.

Creative laser cut grip tape designs

Laser technology unlocks new possibilities for grip tape. Due to its non-slip properties, grip tape is most commonly used in skateboard design, providing both aesthetic appeal and increased friction between the rider and the board. Beyond skateboards, laser-cut grip tape finds applications in badminton rackets, pistol grips, and various other equipment requiring enhanced grip.

1. Customized text skateboards

Laser cutting allows for intricate typography, enabling the creation of logos, brand names, or personalized slogans that make your skateboard instantly recognizable.

2. Cool image skateboards

Laser precision enables detailed pattern cutting, transforming your skateboard from a mere tool into a unique work of art with unparalleled visual design.

3. Festival ornaments

Beyond skateboard decks and grip tape, you can use laser technology to create custom ornaments for festivals or special occasions, highlighting the unique texture and versatility of grip tape.

Learn more laser engraving and cutting designs in our sample library!

How to laser cut grip tape?

The steps for laser cutting grip tape are similar to cutting paper, but grip tape is generally harder than paper, so it requires higher power and lower speed. Here are the basic processing steps:

1. Prepare the grip tape

Ensure the grip tape is clean and free from debris. Keep the protective backing on to prevent adhesive from sticking to the laser bed or components.

2. Secure the material

Place the grip tape flat on the laser bed. Use weights or tape to hold it in place if it tends to curl.

3. Adjust laser settings

Use a lower power setting and moderate speed to avoid burning the adhesive layer or creating excessive smoke. Perform a test cut on a small section to fine-tune the settings.

Learn more: Laser settings for different materials

4. Optimize ventilation

Ensure proper ventilation or use an air assist to reduce smoke and prevent residue buildup on the lens.

5. Cutting process

Start the cutting process while monitoring closely for any issues like excessive heat or material displacement. Avoid stacking multiple layers, as this can compromise precision.

6. Clean the edges

After cutting, inspect the edges for any residue or burrs. Gently clean them if necessary to maintain a professional finish.

Choosing the right laser cutter for your laser grip tape project

The Nova laser cutter is the best choice for cutting grip tape. As a CNC CO2 laser cutting machine, it can process a wide range of non-metal materials, making it a popular choice for most laser cutting applications. It also has unique advantages when it comes to cutting grip tape.

Grip tape is most commonly used as an anti-slip material, with skateboards being the most widespread application. Skateboards are large and require a machine with a spacious work area, not a typical home-use laser machine. Nova, with its large size, offers a wide working area and pass-through doors, making it ideal for handling larger items.

In addition to its size, the Nova also offers higher power, fast cutting speeds, and high precision, allowing for efficient and high-quality laser cutting of grip tape. It is the perfect choice for your grip tape projects and can help you run your laser business effectively.

Thunder Nova Laser Cutter

If you mainly want to process small-sized grip tape, the Bolt series is also a great choice for you! Our flagship Thunder Bolt Desktop Engraver uses an RF tube CO2 laser, offering high engraving precision and versatility for various non-metal materials. Meanwhile, the floor-standing Thunder Bolt Pro is larger and more professional, capable of handling larger materials while providing enterprise-level processing.

Tips and tricks for laser cut grip tape

1. How prevent grip tape warping during laser cutting?

Use masking tape or transfer tape on both sides of the grip tape to minimize heat-induced warping. This helps distribute heat evenly and prevents the material from curling or distorting during the cutting process.

2. How to manage the adhesive side of the grip tape?

When cutting sand tape, it is important to maintain proper ventilation to eliminate smoke from the working area. Adequate ventilation prevents the accumulation of potentially harmful gases and minimizes process-related odors, thereby helping to maintain a safe working environment.

3. How to stay safe when laser cutting grip tape?

1. Ensure proper ventilation to eliminate smoke from the work area. Adequate airflow prevents the buildup of potentially harmful gases and minimizes odors associated with the process, helping to maintain a safe working environment.

2. Always wear personal protective equipment such as gloves and safety goggles. Cutting grip tape can produce sparks when the laser interacts with the abrasive particles, so taking precautions is essential to avoid injury.

4. How to store laser cut grip tape?

1. Store the grip tape in a well-ventilated, dry environment at room temperature. Avoid exposing it directly to sunlight, heat sources, or moisture to prevent damage.

2. It’s best to store grip tape rolled up rather than stacked. Stacking can create creases that are difficult to fix and may affect its usability.