3M Scotch Safe Release Painters' Tape 3M Scotch Blue Painters Tape is a type of masking tape that removes cleanly without adhesive transfer or surface damage for up to 14 days - even when exposed to direct sunlight. It is a medium adhesion masking tape that is ideal for painted walls and trim, woodwork, glass and metal (not for use on lacquer or faux finishes). Use Painters' Tape to mask off areas while applying paint, varnish, stain, and many other finishes. Flexible crepe backing allows for exceptional conformability to semi-smooth surfaces.
If you've ever used cheap masking tape on a project and left it for several days or weeks or months, and then tried to remove the dried on adhesive, you'll really appreciate this tape. Professionals use 3M tapes for their high quality and consistency from roll to roll. Also known as Long-Mask or Blue Tape. Painters' Tape is available in 4 sizes, 3/4", 1", 1 1/2", and 2" wide.

Medium Adhesive Tape   #2090 - for painted surfaces and glass*

    Read about why you should use Painters' Tape.

Directions

    Application of Tape:

1. Surface Preparation - Make sure the surface is clean and dry. Paint seepage under the tape is usually caused by a dirty or wet surface.
2. Test Adhesion - Always test in an inconspicuous area first. If the tape does not stick well, choose a tape with more adhesion. If the tape pulls some of the paint off, use a tape that has less adhesive.
3. Smooth Surface - Painters' Tape should be applied to a smooth surface. If there are any bumps, the paint may seep under the tape.
4. Don't Stretch - Avoid stretching the tape. Pull the tape off the roll a few feet at a time and press down a small area without stretching it. The tape backing is designed to conform to curved surfaces. If shrinking should occur during spraying or drying, it is desirable to have as much stretch left in the tape as possible.
5. Press Smooth - After applying the tape, press along the edges of the tape to establish a flat, smooth contact with the surface (you can use a small squeegee, or putty knife if needed).
6. Surface Depressions - Lay the tape into surface depressions. If it is stretched or forced down, the tape may lift up, or, in some cases, break.
7. Delicate Surfaces - Do not use #2090 Blue Painters' Tape on lacquer, faux, or delicate finishes. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
8. Fresh Paint - Do not apply #2090 Blue Painters' Tape over paint that is less than 30 days old. The paint needs to cure before you place tape on it.

    Removal of Tape:

1. Minimum Time - After painting, you should wait until the paint is dry to the touch, usually at least 1 to 2 hours, before removing Painters' Tape. If you remove the tape while the paint is still wet, you may smudge the line.
2. Maximum Time - Remove the tape within 14 days of applying it. After the paint is dry, the sooner you remove it, the better.
3. Removal Angle - Pull the tape back over itself at a 45° angle. If some of the adhesive remains on the surface, remove tape at a 90° angle (pull perpendicular to the surface).
4. Temperature - Tape is best removed between 50°F - 100°F. If temperature is too low, the tape may become brittle and tear. If the temperature is too high, the adhesive may stick to the surface.
5. Removal Speed - When removing the tape, moderate speeds are best. Excessive rate of removal may cause tearing. Very slow rate of removal increases tendency to transfer adhesive.
6. Customer Service - If you encounter problems with Painters' Tape, please contact 3M customer service at 1-800-494-3552.