How to Use Masking Tape

Masking tape is typically heavy white or cream-colored paper with adhesive on one side. It is used, as its name implies, to mask areas you don't want painted. It can also be used to hold things together temporarily.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Masking Tape

1. Line up the edge of a strip of tape with the edge of the area to be painted. This is the paint edge.

2. Begin at one end and press the tape down firmly, working from the paint edge out.

3. Make sure there aren't any bubbles along the paint edge, or paint will seep under the tape.

4. Use masking tape as a makeshift clamp. Glue the pieces together and wrap a couple of strips of masking tape around them until the glue dries.

5. Pull dry masking tape off at a 90-degree angle to the surface. Increase the angle if the surface coating starts to come off.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the area warm and dry. Masking tape won't stick well to cold or damp surfaces.

• Replace a roll if it's been around for a while. Old tape becomes brittle and loses its stickiness.

• If you leave masking tape on too long - usually more than 24 hours - it will become hard to remove.