"Is There Any Tapes That Will Actually Take Paint Well?" Topic

If one wanted to quickly add some low relief architectural detail to foam board walls, without having to cut and glue on thin straight strips of card …

Can it be done with tape? If so, what tape would TAKE paint well AND not curl up later as time passes (which masking tape tends to do with time)?

Thanks,

Dan

I would say any masking tape, not the painters tape. Maybe add some white glue to prevent curling.

P.

Good old masking tape is the way to go. And white glue is not necessary. I've used masking tape to convert figures for years (for belts and such). No curl with either oil enamels or acrylics. The paint must stiffen/seal it enough.

look for automotive painters tape. it takes paint well enough and is a fair bit better than standard masking tape. you might want to put some superglue down on the ends though if you are using acrylic paint as that will shrink as it dries and cause it to curl a bit. my $.02 USD

Jakse375,

Really? I thought it worked for blocking out paint, but that it didn't itself take paint. Glad to hear that it does.

Thanks,

Dan
TMP link

I would consider decorators caulk.
Use tape to delimit the edge of the low relief wossname.
Thin the caulk slightly with pva.
Smooth on thinly with a palette knife.
Let it go off for 15 mins or something and repeat if necessary.
Peel tape off.

Cacipue,

That's a common misconception. It's really good at preventing bleeding (paint running underneath or through it) but it's top layer is very absorbent.

I must give it a try then. Most definitely.

Dan

Not really a tape, but there are some hobby sheets that you can get that are basically thin card with an adhesive backing designed for use on signs that might fit what you're looking for.

CC, I use masking as described above.
Once it's under paint its there to stay.

+1 for masking tape, I used to use it to make cloaks for my DnD figures.

Get the thin, sticky foam sheets (usually come 8x11, in various thickness, but the Dollar Tree has REAL thin foam sheets).

You can cut out any shapes with scissors or exacto, and etch brick or indentations or scribing with an exacto or a inkless ball point pen. takes paint and spackle perfectly.

Don't know what your project is, I use the foam sheets for stone window and door frames, decorative strips, stone foundations, etc.

If it is tape you need, aluminum airduct tape is the BEST. Takes any paint (protective clear overcoat is recommended). perfect, especially for modern or sci fi, or even old stuff if painted appropriately. bends into compound curves, low relief, etc. I paint it the fuselage color, then cut thin strips to frame canopies for aircraft models.

Stuff can be etched into intricate designs. I etch license plates for 1/24 scale car models by doing it backwards, flip it over, and I have a metal, raised relief license plate! Same with signs and plaques on buildings.

Best stuff ever!

GREAT for making clamps for piping and wiring as well.

Another idea is vinal bumber stickers. I collect piles of em from political campaigns. Acryllic paint or spray works great, they can be stretched around curves and compound curves, etc.