Step 3 · Wrap the Threads Clockwise
Maintain light tension on the tape and begin wrapping it around the threads in a clockwise direction. The direction is critical: as you tighten the female fitting (which also turns clockwise), it will tighten the tape, not unravel it. Overlap the tape by about half its width on each rotation. Continue wrapping up the pipe, covering all the threads that will be engaged by the fitting. For standard 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch water pipes, 3 to 5 full wraps are typically sufficient.