Aloha,
My pop uses masking tape to install his reel seats, but there's another type of tape that's a mesh so the epoxy penetrates to the blank. Sorry, but can't remember the name and I want to use that if anyone can help me out.
Aloha,
Scott

It is drywall tape. You use it to cover the seams when doing drywall work and mud over it with joint compound.

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

You can pick it up at and Home Depot or Lowes
The one I use is yellow.

Yep, fiberglass drywall tape.

Regards
Dave

Fishing is Life the rest is just Details

Cut it into strips. I cut it into thirds. it is slightly adhesive so the fit can be fine tuned before cluing. When gluing put down some tape, cover with epoxy, filling the mesh. do another couple of turns and repeat.

Chris Richer
Iroquois ON

Thanks everyone. Got it. Drywall tape.
Aloha,
Scott

Scott,
I have used both masking tape as well as drywell tape.
My preference by far is masking tape.
I just leave 1/8th inch gaps between the rows of tape wraps to insure a good solid epoxy fill and adhesion. Never an issue. Inexpensive and easy to apply.

In spite of other comments, never an issue with the use of maskng tape for an arbor.

Masking tape is particularly useful, when you only need a layer or two of tape to fill the gap between the blank and reel seat.

Take care
Roger

If you have a LOT of space between the seat walls and the blank Use an arbor Just glue the correct size into the seat let dry and ream it to fit the blank

If a very small gap between the blank and seat I use 1/4" tape three arbors . Prep the blank for a good grip

Not as messy as the dry wall tape

Bill - willierods.com

Scott, assuming this is a salt water rod ,keep the masking tape for securing guides while wrapping. Best to use a foam arbor or the mesh tape you are seeking. Too many rods I've repaired had masking tape arbors and when water intrudes it just destroys the arbors. Most rods around here get real wet while underway in a boat. Salt water fishing is very different than fresh water when it comes to conditions that affect a rods life.

Freddwhy (Rapt-Ryte)

When using 1/4" tap ( if the space is small ) when gluing the seat on Use Rod Bond and Seal Both Ends of the seat so water does not get in But Never use All Tape Arbors Let the glue attach itself to the inside of the seat AND the ( prepped ) blank for a good bond

Bill - willierods.com

Listen to Fred's advice. Best to keep away from masking tape.

The arbors are very easy to use

Bill - willierods.com