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Table Manners: My Top Ten Rules For Using a Table

By Robert M. Kelly

Technique is the way we do a particular thing. It could be good technique, or bad technique. We build good technique by practicing good work habits. Over time, these habits become almost second nature.

Organizing our work into routines allows us to think less about each individual detail. This makes for a clearer head – so that when the really unique, challenging part of the job comes, we're ready for it.

Nowhere is this more true than with our table work, or, what I call here, our "table manners". The word “manners” comes from “manus” – the hand. Our table manners are the way that we use our hands to unroll paper, cut it up, paste it, and fold it.

But, a table is not just a shelf to put things on. It is itself a tool. This demonstration presents some rules for using a table to paste blankstock.

1. Do layout.

2. Make the table fit the paper.

3. Strip Rule 1: measure tight – 2-3" excess.

4. Strip Rule 2: tops and bottoms should be straight.

5. Strip Rule 3: strips should lie flat.

6. Strip Rule 4: place strips in sequence.

7. Strip Rule 5: strips should be arranged neatly.

8. Mark tops on drop matches.

9. Paste the entire sheet.

10. Folds and stacking should be consistent.