"Messy fingers, clean edges...works every time (almost)."
Haha, that's exactly how my last sink install went. I tried painter's tape once before but honestly found it more hassle than help. Now I just go slow, smoothing with a damp finger like you mentioned. Another tip is to keep a small bowl of soapy water nearby—dip your finger occasionally and the caulk glides smoother. Still messy, but way easier cleanup afterward.
That's a solid approach—going slow and steady usually beats the tape method, in my experience. Painter's tape can sometimes leave a rougher edge if you're not careful removing it. The soapy water trick is great advice too; I've found that keeping a damp sponge handy helps clean up any accidental smears quickly. Caulking is definitely one of those tasks where patience pays off...sounds like you've got it down pretty well though!
Sounds like you're already ahead of the curve. Caulking is definitely one of those jobs where shortcuts usually backfire—I've learned that the hard way more than once. I agree about painter's tape; it can be helpful, but I've had a few frustrating experiences peeling it off only to find jagged edges underneath. Honestly, taking your time and cleaning as you go is the smartest way to handle it. The damp sponge trick saved me a few headaches too...wish I'd known about it sooner. Anyway, congrats on getting the sink installed—it's always satisfying when you finally step back and see everything neatly sealed and finished.
"Honestly, taking your time and cleaning as you go is the smartest way to handle it."
Yeah, that's pretty much spot-on. I remember rushing through my first sink install thinking "how hard could it be?"... famous last words. Ended up redoing the caulk twice because of messy edges and gaps. Curious though, has anyone tried those caulking tools they sell now? I've seen them around but always wondered if they're actually helpful or just another gimmick.
Those caulking tools can be hit or miss, honestly. I've seen some colleagues swear by them, claiming they get cleaner lines and less mess. Personally, I've always been a bit skeptical—seems like another gadget that ends up forgotten in the toolbox after a few tries. That said, I did give one a shot on a recent bathroom remodel just to see what the fuss was about. It wasn't revolutionary, but it did help smooth out the bead faster than my usual finger-and-rag method. Still had to touch up a couple spots manually though.
Don't beat yourself up over redoing the caulk twice—it's pretty common even among seasoned pros to have to redo sections occasionally. Caulking is one of those deceptively simple tasks that can quickly turn frustrating if rushed or underestimated. Sounds like you've already learned the most important lesson: patience pays off in the end.
