Using painters tape the right way
Painters tape is the key to getting clean and sharp lines, and an overall neat professional look. Applied correctly, painters tape also helps avoid splatter and splodges on trims and skirting boards and it can save you from paint bleeding under the tape.
1 - Clean
Start by cleaning the surface. Use a sponge with a mild detergent and remove dirt, oils, dust, grime etc.
2 - Let dry completely
Let the surfaces dry completely before reaching for your tape.
3 - Apply
Rip the tape in footlong pieces, and lay onto the surface, pressing down as you go. Apply the tape as close to the surface as possible.
Do not stretch the tape. Apply tape along floors, ceilings, window trims, light switches, door handles etc.
4 - Seal
Seal the tape to the surface, by pressing down with a smooth edge like a putty knife or similar, to make sure the tape is properly stuck. Paint can easily bleed under the tape, if it is not applied firmly and bonds properly to the surface.
5 - Set
Let the tape set 30 to 60 minutes before beginning to paint.
6 - Remove
Remove the tape before the paint dries up, while it is still a bit wet. Avoid letting the tape sit overnight. Carefully remove the tape, pulling it back toward yourself at a 45 degrees angle.
In the case the paint has dried up, use a sharp putty knife or a razor blade to score along the edge of the tape. This prevents paint from being pulled up with the tape and from cracking along the paint line.