discussion Which Masking Tape?

[pjgtech]

So i'm brush painting, (mostly).
I know you can buy various specialist model making masking tapes, thick, thin, etc.
Can I just use simple decorators masking type, eg: from B&Q, Screwfix, etc rather than the specialist ones?
If it is best to use the specialist ones, what do they offer over standard masking tape?
Cheers
Edit, I am assuming that a low tack tape, eg: one that does not have a strong adhesive, is preferred so that it does not strip off paint when its removed....

 

[Tim Marlow]

Best on the market for modelling is Tamiya tape. It removes cleanly and gives straight edges. Decorators paper tape is not suited to modelling. Even if detacked it can stick too hard, and can easily remove underlying paint.

 

[Mr Bowcat]

For thin tape (1mm, 2mm, etc) Tamiya or Aizu tape. For the regular 20mm stuff I like MT brand Washi tape. Exactly the same as Tamiya, but a hell of a lot cheaper.

 

[Jim R]

Endorse the suggestions made by Tim and Bob. When using any masking tape spend an extra few minutes carefully burnishing the tape edges to minimise leakage. Also brush away from the edge or at least not brush into the edge and when at the tape edges try not to have too much wet paint on the brush.

 

[PaulTRose]

Tamiya does sheets of the stuff......great stuff for making camo with....what ive just used on the Stugs scurzen armour

If you have a branch of Boyes near you they do a brand of tape thats just as good as tamiya but half the price

Another good tip is is to brush over with Humbrol Clear before you paint as it seals the edge and stops bleed under

 

[Tim Marlow]

Hi Bob. Where do you source that Washi stuff? I’ve always understood Tamiya tape to be Kabuki, which is possibly incorrect, and might be why I can’t find another source of it

 

[Tim Marlow]

There is, of course, Frisk masking sheet, which comes in rolls. I’ve got one. Bought it in an art shop years ago when I was browsing. Never used it though, so can’t say if it’s good or bad……

 

[Ian M]

A proper modelling tape is smooth and flat and the edge much cleaner. Painters tape is not very flat and far to sticky.
If possible remove the tape as soon as you can after painting as it will soften any edge ridges that might form against the tape.
There are those that will say if you are painting with a brush why the need for masking. Most of those I know that brush paint don't mask off.

 

[LeytonO]

I recently used an AK masking sheet to make a stencil for some lettering.
Worked really well and came off cleanly leaving all of the letters intact.

 

[Mr Bowcat]

Tim, used to get it from Amazon but they no longer seem to sell it there. Last time I bought it from https://mtmaskingtape.co.uk/

 

[pjgtech]

There are those that will say if you are painting with a brush why the need for masking. Most of those I know that brush paint don't mask off.

That ones easy, cos my hands are not that steady!

 

[Ian M]

Have a look for some longhaired brushes for that. Liners or signwriter type brushes type of things. The long hairs of the brush absorb the wonky bits.