masking curved lines


This is best left to Tamiya masking tape. It comes in several widths, and it's really compliant, has a great, crisp edge and it won't take underlying coats off. Highly recommend it. If you can get it, just lay some standard masking tape on a piece of glass or tile, and cut strips out of it. Works well too.
 
I usually place the masking tape on some sheet glass and cut it with a knife to the curve I want, then place the pre-cut tape onto the model.
 
I've used the Tamiyia tape and found it does a generally better job of preventing bleed through than regular masking tape. It also seems to me that a single edge razor blade does a better job cutting the tape with one pass than a hobby knife.
 
I do the same as Josh. I'll cut the curve on a piece of masking tape and then apply that pre-cut piece to the model.

Dan
 
Masking Curves

I've used the Tamiyia tape and found it does a generally better job of preventing bleed through than regular masking tape. It also seems to me that a single edge razor blade does a better job cutting the tape with one pass than a hobby knife.

The Tamiya Tape is just the ticket. It's thinner, more flexible than masking tape, and was designed for aircraft modelers whom routinely have compound (wings and fuselages) to mask for camouflage painting. It has a nice sharp edge; as good as one can cut with a razor.
 
I've used drafting tape and masking tape both for over 30yrs. They are cheap, easy to use, and if applied correctly neither one pulls up underlying colors.

But, unless you're constantly going to be painting curved lines, use the Tamiya tape.
 
Thank you for the good advice. I mostly used drafting tape so far and it's easy to handle and not too expensive. I also heard and read positive reviews of the Tamiya Tape so I will give it a try.
 
Micro-Mark also sells some "liquid masking tape". I don't know much about it, but you might want to give it a try.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
The Micro-Mark stuff is good. But, if you free hand you need a steady hand. I use the blue DuPont tape. Pricey though.

Bob
 



Back
Top