Sticking bellows tape

[knobby]

When I undo the bellows straps on my accordion the bellows tape is lightly stuck together, and I have to pull the bellows out fully for all the folds of the bellows to separate (which makes a "cracking" type sound).

Is there anything I can do to stop the tape sticking together?

Thanks

 

[debra]

Has the tape ever been replaced? There could be some glue residue on the tape. If the job was done "properly" then the glue is white pva glue and you can rub the tape and around the tape with a warm damp cloth to remove some of the residue. What sometimes also happens in tape-replacement is that glue under the tape, on the outer ridge is trying to keep the fold closed and lets go with a "crack" when you pull the bellows open. Many accordion players fully open and then close the bellows before they start playing, to ensure there won't be any noises from the bellows when they actually play. If the damp cloth treatment doesn't do the trick then you may be out of options...

 

[knobby]

As far as I know it has never had the tape replaced. When I bought it, it had hardly been used.

I'll try the damp cloth tomorrow and see how I get on.

 

[Dingo40]

Knobby,
As far as I know, what you've described is a feature of a new or little used accordion ( like the new car smell) which will disappear with use.
It's simply some not yet fully dried out adhesive being tacky ?
In some cases it can last for decades.

 

[boxplayer4000]

I find chalk dust very useful for dealing with situations where glue or other sticky stuff shouldn't be. eg. wax around reed valves. It might well be helpful on sticking bellows as well.

 

[JIM D.]

Wiping this one on lightly will cure it completely ---
Amazon product ASIN B07L6X5HL5