In a message dated 11/27/2004 3:02:33 PM Eastern Standard Time, Greg writes: I have always wrapped cloth tape starting up by the stem and wrapping down to the end. At the end, I tuck a bit in and secure it with the plug. Others on the list have recommended wrapping in the other direction, citing the reason that the natural action of the hands does not tend to unwrap the tape when done in this fashion. However, they must then secure the loose end at the top with a strip of some kind of adhesive tape. While I have never had a problem with tape unwrapping with my method, I have had the small bit of tape at the top come loose when doing it the other way.
It's not that the tape unwraps, so much that your hands will cause the tape to roll over on itself, especially when the tape gets wet. It is also feels better when the edges of the tape point down rather than up. Think of it like putting shingles on a roof...
If you do not like the looks of adhesive tape on the ends, try a whip finish with some thin twine... looks very cool. If you need instructions, I think they are at the Rivendell.com site on the page about shellacing handlebars.
Bob Hovey
Columbus, GA