I don't think you should blame the tape if your spokes protrude beyond the tops of the nipples. I consider punctures an eventuality in that condition. If you can't get a dremel or cutter in that space, take a file to the spokes. I've done this. It's even more annoying than it sounds, but it will work. Once I had a wheel like that (on an old 3-speed), and I tried to hire my local bike shop to do the job. I left the wheel there, and the owner/mechanic gave it back to me because it was too annoying. I can't blame him.