Adding pinstripes can give your car that custom look without breaking the bank. But not all pinstripe tapes are created equal. Some fade quickly, others don’t stick well, and a few are just plain difficult to work with. I’ve tried a bunch over the years, and I’m here to share my top picks for automotive pinstripe tape that actually holds up and looks great.
Here’s a quick rundown of my favorite pinstripe tapes:
- 3M Scotch Fine Line Tape 218: Best for intricate designs and curves.
- Avery Dennison SW900 ColorFlow Series: Offers unique color-shifting effects.
- VViViD Gloss Finish Vinyl Pinstripe Tape Roll: Budget-friendly and comes in many colors.
- Custom Stripe Premium Pinstripe Tape: Great for long, straight lines.
- ProStripe Premium Grade Pinstriping Tape: Durable and easy to apply.
Top 5 Best Automotive Pinstripe Tape Reviews
1. 3M Scotch Fine Line Tape 218
The 3M Scotch Fine Line Tape 218 is a staple in the automotive world for a reason. It’s designed for creating sharp, clean lines on complex curves and surfaces. This tape is thin and flexible, allowing it to conform easily to body contours, making it ideal for custom designs and intricate patterns.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for curves and complex shapes
- ✅ Creates very sharp and clean lines
- ✅ Leaves no residue upon removal
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other options
- ❌ Requires a steady hand for best results
- ❌ Not ideal for very wide stripes
Verdict: If you’re tackling a detailed pinstripe job with lots of curves, the 3M Fine Line Tape 218 is your best bet. It’s a professional-grade tape that delivers exceptional results.
2. Avery Dennison SW900 ColorFlow Series
The Avery Dennison SW900 ColorFlow Series is all about making a statement. These vinyl films shift colors depending on the viewing angle, creating a vibrant and eye-catching effect. If you want pinstripes that stand out from the crowd, this is the way to go. They’re also quite durable and weather-resistant.
Pros:
- ✅ Unique color-shifting effect
- ✅ High-quality vinyl material
- ✅ Excellent durability and weather resistance
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than standard pinstripe tapes
- ❌ Can be tricky to apply, especially for beginners
- ❌ Limited color options compared to standard tapes
Verdict: For those looking to add a custom, high-end touch to their vehicle, the Avery Dennison SW900 ColorFlow Series is an excellent choice. Just be prepared for a slightly steeper learning curve during installation.
3. VViViD Gloss Finish Vinyl Pinstripe Tape Roll
The VViViD Gloss Finish Vinyl Pinstripe Tape Roll is a solid choice when you need a lot of tape without spending a fortune. It’s available in a wide array of colors and widths, making it easy to find the perfect match for your car. The gloss finish provides a sleek, professional look, and the adhesive is strong enough to hold up well over time.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable
- ✅ Wide variety of colors and widths
- ✅ Easy to apply
Cons:
- ❌ Durability isn’t as high as premium brands
- ❌ Adhesive can sometimes leave residue
- ❌ Color accuracy can vary slightly
Verdict: If you’re on a budget or need a lot of tape for a larger project, the VViViD Gloss Finish Vinyl Pinstripe Tape Roll is a great value. It’s a good all-around option for basic pinstriping needs.
4. Custom Stripe Premium Pinstripe Tape
If you’re planning to add long, straight pinstripes to your vehicle, the Custom Stripe Premium Pinstripe Tape is designed for just that. This tape is made with high-quality vinyl and a strong adhesive, ensuring that your stripes stay in place even in harsh weather conditions. It’s also easy to apply and reposition, making it a good choice for DIYers.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for long, straight lines
- ✅ Strong adhesive for long-lasting results
- ✅ Easy to apply and reposition
Cons:
- ❌ Not ideal for complex curves
- ❌ Limited color selection
- ❌ Can be a bit difficult to remove without heat
Verdict: For those who need to create long, straight pinstripes with precision, the Custom Stripe Premium Pinstripe Tape is an excellent choice. Its strong adhesive and ease of application make it a reliable option for achieving a professional look.
5. ProStripe Premium Grade Pinstriping Tape
The ProStripe Premium Grade Pinstriping Tape is known for its durability and ease of use. This tape is made from high-quality vinyl that resists fading, cracking, and peeling. Its flexible design allows it to conform to curves and contours, making it a versatile option for various pinstriping projects. The tape also features a clean release adhesive that leaves no residue behind.
Pros:
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting
- ✅ Easy to apply and conform to curves
- ✅ Clean release adhesive
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than basic options
- ❌ Limited width choices
- ❌ Some users find it slightly less flexible than 3M tape
Verdict: The ProStripe Premium Grade Pinstriping Tape is a great all-around choice for those who want a durable and easy-to-use tape. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced users looking for reliable performance.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right automotive pinstripe tape can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few key things to consider:
- Material: Vinyl is the most common material for pinstripe tape. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and available in a wide range of colors. Premium vinyl films, like those from Avery Dennison, offer enhanced durability and unique effects.
- Adhesive: Look for tapes with a strong adhesive that will hold up over time but also release cleanly without leaving residue. 3M and ProStripe are known for their clean release adhesives.
- Width and Color: Consider the width and color of the pinstripe tape. Thinner tapes are ideal for subtle accents, while wider tapes can create a more bold look. Choose a color that complements your vehicle’s paint job.
- Flexibility: If you plan to apply pinstripes to curved surfaces, choose a tape that is flexible and easy to conform to contours. 3M Fine Line Tape is an excellent choice for curves.
- Durability: Consider the climate you live in. If you experience harsh weather conditions, choose a tape that is specifically designed to withstand extreme temperatures and UV exposure.
- Ease of Application: If you’re a beginner, look for tapes that are easy to apply and reposition. Some tapes come with application tools or instructions to help you achieve professional-looking results.
FAQs
Q: How do I prepare my car’s surface for pinstripe tape?
A: Start by washing and drying the area where you’ll be applying the tape. Then, use a wax and grease remover to remove any residue. Finally, wipe the surface with isopropyl alcohol to ensure it’s clean and ready for the tape.
Q: How do I apply pinstripe tape without getting bubbles?
A: Apply the tape slowly and carefully, using a squeegee or a soft cloth to smooth it out as you go. If you do get bubbles, you can use a pin to prick them and then smooth out the tape.
Q: How long will pinstripe tape last on my car?
A: The lifespan of pinstripe tape depends on the quality of the tape and the conditions it’s exposed to. High-quality tapes can last for several years, while cheaper tapes may only last for a year or two.
Q: Can I remove pinstripe tape without damaging my car’s paint?
A: Yes, you can. Use a heat gun or hair dryer to warm the tape, which will soften the adhesive. Then, gently peel the tape off, working slowly and carefully. If there’s any residue left behind, you can remove it with a mild adhesive remover.
Q: What tools do I need to apply pinstripe tape?
A: You’ll need a clean cloth, a squeegee, a measuring tape, a utility knife or scissors, and a heat gun or hair dryer (optional).
Conclusion
Adding pinstripes is a simple way to personalize your vehicle. Choosing the right tape is key. Whether you’re looking for intricate designs, color-shifting effects, or budget-friendly options, there’s a pinstripe tape out there for you. With a little patience and the right materials, you can achieve a professional-looking result that will turn heads.
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