For instance, there are specific painting tapes designed for drywall, wood, metal, or wallpaper. Painter’s Mate Green painter’s tape, Scotch blue painter’s tape, and FrogTape are multi-surface tapes that are all popular choices for most home renovation needs.
Allow the area to air dry completely before applying tape.
When you’re applying painter’s tape, apply it in foot-long strips. Be sure to slightly overlap each section of tape so that paint can’t get through. [1] X Research source
In general, you’ll want to apply tape around all of the trim, baseboards, door frames, window casings, and crown moldings. [2] X Expert Source Andres MatheuCommercial Painter Expert Interview. 28 July 2020. When you’re applying tape, apply it flush with and as close as possible to the surface you’ll be painting. For instance, to protect a ceiling from wall paint, apply the tape to the ceiling where the ceiling and wall meet, getting the tape as close to the wall as possible without masking the wall itself. [3] X Research source If you’re painting multiple surfaces, always make sure fresh paint is fully cured before you apply tape to the surface. While paint may dry in a few hours, it takes several days to cure.
Instead of your finger you can also use a putty knife flat against the surface to seal the tape in place, just be careful not to tear the tape.
Mitering the tape like this will allow the edges to come together in corners without overlapping onto the wall. Make sure you leave enough tape to overlap the tape edges, so that no trim is exposed underneath. You can also do this in the corners of ceilings.
To start, tape up the edges of the panel first, and press the tape down flat. Cover the remainder of the panel with newspaper or masking paper. Tape all the edges of the paper to keep it in place and prevent paint from getting in. [5] X Research source Paper or plastic with pre-attached tape is also available.
If there are items that are too large or awkward to be removed, arrange them in the center of the room and cover them with a sheet, tarp, plastic cover, or drop cloth to protect them.
Most vent, light, and plug covers are fastened with one or two screws, and can be removed with a screwdriver. Put a small piece of tape over the outlet and switch or paint could spatter here. Tape the screws to the back of each fixture to avoid losing them or mixing them up.
Canvas tarp is preferred because plastic on flooring can sometimes become slippery. Lay the sheet down as flat as possible and pull it taut so that it doesn’t become a tripping hazard. Use masking tape or painter’s tape to secure the sheet in place.
When you have sanded the walls, get a fresh bucket of water and a clean sponge to wipe the walls down and remove dirt and dust. Add a bit of dish soap to the water if the walls are dirty. Allow the walls to dry, and when everything is dry, vacuum up any leftover dust and dirt from the walls and baseboards. When sanding, it’s a good idea to wear a protective mask and safety glasses to prevent dust from getting into your mouth, nose, and eyes.
Peel the tape off slowly, and pull it at a 135-degree angle toward yourself.
When you’re scoring, hold the blade at a 45-degree angle. [8] X Research source
Fill a small bowl with warm water and several drops of dish soap. Dip a lint-free cloth into the soapy water and rub at the tape residue with the cloth. Rinse the cloth, wring it out, and wipe the area with clean water. If you need something stronger than soap and water, consider using a citrus-based cleanser on the residue. Apply a small amount to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a clean, damp cloth. Or dab a little Goof Off remover or a similar product.
