Masking tape

[Kez]

I found out the hard way that there is actually a shelf life for masking tapes. I have some 3M Fineline masking tape where the adhesive turned gummy after 10 years but I used it anyway. Lots of bleeding under the tape. I want to continue my several projects but I am not sure when the paint supply stores will reopen. Walmart does carry paper type 3M masking tape. Has anyone used those before? Do they work well?
Many years ago in one of Hobbypoxy's application notes, they suggested to use electrician's tape. I have never tried it. But in a pinch, I want to use anything that works.

Thanks, k

 

[John Beardslee]

All depends on how it is stored.

 

[John Beardslee]

That and thumbing it down.

 

[Kez]

John, I did burnish the tape down but the paint still creep under the tape. I think the paint dissolved some of the adhesive leaving a thin soft gummy edge.

 

[Jeff Barnes]

The 3m tape works good for straight lines I use fine line 1/4 " tape for curves

 

[dr gary turner]

Get your taping stuff from an automotive paint store.

The green masking tape is the best
Orange stripping material first then mask on top of it

The guys that build high in card on TV use what I am talking about like BITCHIN RIDES

Just finished clear this boat today. No bleed on the tape lines

 

[brad nichols]

Stores still may be open but they are curb side service. You order over the phone and pay for it and when you get there they bring it out.

Brad

Nice boat Doc!!

 

[dr gary turner]

Thanks Brad

 

[John Beardslee]

John, I did burnish the tape down but the paint still creep under the tape. I think the paint dissolved some of the adhesive leaving a thin soft gummy edge.

I very much doubt that the paint had anything to do with it. I’ve used 3M Fineline for years. It’s expensive but the best, I’ve always stored it in the basement away from heat and sun light. It’s lasted a long time. Any that’s not new I do some test spray with a rattle can and check it for bleeding.

 

[Don Ferrette]

I've used 3M Fineline for many years, expensive but good stuff. Properly stored it has about a 5 year shelf life, after that you're rolling the dice.

 

[John Beardslee]

I also always store it in a heavy duty zip lock bag.

 

[dr gary turner]

Here is the tape I use

 

[Kez]

Thanks all for your replies. I bought the masking tapes from a auto paint supply store, not the Walmart. I used the crepe type tape for general purpose masking and also to attach paper to cover large areas. The Fineline tape is used for masking trim color etc. They have worked very well and I always get a crisp clean line with these.

But after 10 or 15 years, they feel different now. The adhesive has turned gummy. I stored them in a plastic bag but the adhesive stuck to the bag and I had to rip the bag off the tape. See the picture.

I used Rustoleum 2X for trim on my latest project and there is a thin gummy paint on the edge.

I would like to know if you guys have tried the Walmart type of masking tape and if they produce acceptable results. If not, I might have to wait for the business to reopen

Thanks, k