How to Paint Using Masking Tape
The use of masking tape when painting is a popular way to keep paint off unintended surfaces, in addition to creating even and clean lines between painted and non-painted surfaces. Masking tape is especially helpful when painting walls in order to keep paint away from baseboards and trim. With a few techniques, such as purchasing the proper masking tape and the correct application of the tape the surface, you can use masking tape as part of your painting process. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Purchase a low tack masking tape. You can find low tack tape in most hardware stores. Low tack tape will still create hard lines where you do not want the paint to cross, without leaving a sticky residue behind when you remove the tape.
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Apply the tape to the area that you do not want to paint or you do not want the paint to cross. For example, if you want to paint a wall, apply the masking tape to the top, bottom and side edges of the wall. Don’t try to use a very long piece of masking tape at once. Instead, rip short lengths of tape less than 2 feet long, and apply them to the edges. Long pieces of tape get wrinkled, leave small bubbles or gaps where paint can get inside, or it might not adhere to the wall in a straight line.
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Press the tape down firmly. You may want to use a putty knife to press the tape down. No space between the tape and the surface ensures a clean line.
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Paint the entire surface. Because you have used masking tape, you can paint over the tape or partially paint over the tape without getting paint on the surfaces that you want to keep clear.
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Allow the paint to dry.
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Carefully peel the tape away from the surface. You should see a clean line between the painted and non-painted surfaces.
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Tips & Warnings
You may want to allow at least two coats of paint to dry before you peel the tape away to ensure a clearly visible and clean line between the painted and non-painted surfaces.
