misc What is the Secret to Shrink Wrapping?

[PepperDaddy]

Hello,

I made a gallon batch of sauce the other day and tried using the shrink wrap for the first time. It looks like a wrinkled up prune, not smooth like the ones in the store. Is there a trick to this. The shrink wrap came from Leener's and I used a hair dryer. It worked wonderfully except for the appearance. Also, there's a perforated rib that sticks out (like a fin) which makes it clumpier once heated. Maybe all shrink wrap is not created equal? Maybe the shrink wrap is smarter than me? Any advice? Thanks.

Ken

 

[salsalady]

Hi Ken,

unfortunately, not all shrink wrap is created equal. However, you can get better results by using a heat gun (available at any hardware store for $20-$30). Heat guns run hotter than hair dryers. Also, if you have one, try using the fan or other direct attachment to consolidate the air flow. Commercial bottles go through a heat tunnel that has even heat all the way around, which results in a smooth look. Using a hotter gun will get you closer to the look.
Good Luck- salsalady

edit- here's one of my bottles, I use a heat gun and this is a 10oz bottle.


and a 5oz with a heat gun-


Photos courtesy of SumOfMyBits. How do these compare to yours? Can you post a pic?

 

[PepperDaddy]

Thank's Salsalady. That certainly looks better than by shrink wrap job!