Masking tape ripping paint off

[Kimi_Collector]

I need to use masking tape on my model to get a perfect line where the black meets the silver. I tested masking over the black while I paint the silver, but it pulled some of the paint off.

What other options do I have. I don't think free-hand will get good results

[cbrain]

Originally Posted by Kimi_Collector

I need to use masking tape on my model to get a perfect line where the black meets the silver. I tested masking over the black while I paint the silver, but it pulled some of the paint off.

What other options do I have. I don't think free-hand will get good results

First on my list, use Tamiya Masking Tape.
2nd, any other low-tack masking tape (if there's any).

3rd, this is what I used to do (before I found Tamiya's masking tape) but it has mixed results. Stick your strip of masking tape on a fabric or cloth prior to you sticking it to the car body. It will lose some of its grip. But doing it too much will make the tape lose its adhesiveness.

[CifeNet]

Usually Tamiya masking tape is a safe way to perform the masking work, but sometimes the paint can peel off with the tape and most likely that, the surface wasn't cleaned or prep-ed correctly preventing primer/paint to not bite at full strength.

Also, when pulling off the maskping tape, the drying time matters. I usually pull them off when the applied paint coat is't fully dry (some care is needed not to ruin the paint), but started to dry a bit. This prevents the paint from sticking and curing at the edge of the masking tape.

Of course, it also depends on other factors, but I just listed the main cause that I can think of...

[cyberkid]

I use parafilm if the black is gloss...
Tamiya tape if it's non gloss, I stick it on a peice of glass prior to attaching it to the model.
If it's parafilm I used then I take it off a few days after it's been painted.
If its masking tape, then I wait about 20-30 minutes to take it off...

Originally Posted by CifeNet

the paint can peel off with the tape and most likely that, the surface wasn't cleaned or prep-ed correctly preventing primer/paint to not bite at full strength

This is extremely important, so try to make sure that you can get your model as perfect as possible before painting.

[Kimi_Collector]

Thanks for all the tips guys, most of the fun of making my first model is finding out all different techniques.

I found a lower tack tape which I will practice with first.