Joining with Tape

You will remember there are two main kinds of film joiner: one using film cement and the other for using tape. You will also recall that for cutting copy purposes a tape joiner is best. How do you make a join with a guillotine tape joiner?

Making the join

First you must mark the point at which you want to cut. You should do this by writing on the base side of the film with a grease pencil. Be precise. Mark the exact frame by drawing a line across the film opposite the perforations at which you want to cut and another line at right angles to it along the part of the shot you do not intend to use. The correct markings are shown on page 82. You can then move to the joiner. Raise the cutting blade and place the first of the pieces of film you want to join on the cutting block so that the point you have marked is immediately under the cutting blade. You can then bring the blade down and make your cut. Repeat this process with the other piece of film and then lay the two shots end to end so that they meet at the centre of the joiner block. Do not let them overlap. The two pieces should touch each other but not overlap. You can then draw tape across both strips of film, press the tape down and punch it clear of the film perforations. You do not need cement or patience, for the splice is completed in a second. Open the joiner up and take out your joined film, and return the trim to the trims bin.

When not to use tape

Tape joins are good for working purposes. They are strong and can be made quickly and easily. If you want to change a cut you simply peel a join and separate the two pieces of film. Joins made with tape can be used for picture and magnetic sound as we shall see later. But although they are ideal for cutting copy use, tape joins are not recommended for camera originals or for show prints because tape discolours with age and it can shrink or stretch. For original film repairs and for negative cutting cement splicers are essential.

USING A TAPE JOINER

1. Tape joining stage by stage
(A) Place one piece of film across the joiner with the point at which you wish to cut on the right hand edge and bring down the knife to cut it. (B) Move the piece of film you wish to join to the centre of the joiner block and align so they are end-to-end but do not overlap. (C) Cover both pieces of film with tape. (D) Bring down the top of the joiner and press the handle to cut the tape and clear the perforations.

2. Indicating a cut
Indicate the point at which you wish to cut by drawing a line across the frame at the cutting point and another line at right angles to it, pointing along the part you want to lose. For example, in 2E the right hand portion is to be lost and in 2F the trim on the left.