How To Apply Masking Tape In A Straight Line?

Making clean paint lines between two colors doesn't have to require a steady hand or special equipment. This technique is very simple and requires only paint, brushes and masking tape. This time, however, you will be controlling the bleeding paint and using it to create crisp lines that precisely follow the edge of the tape.

Step 1: First Color

Lay down the first color, extending past the area where the line will be. If you are using two layers per color, paint both layers.

Step 2: Taping

Once the paint is dry, place your masking tape. In this case, the bottom of the masking tape marks the location where the edge between the two colors will appear.

Step 3: Bleed Line

Using the same color, paint along the tape edge. This seems strange but, there will always be some bleeding under the tape. By deliberately painting against the tape, you seal the edge with the first color, allowing it to bleed under the edge, so the second color can't do it. The edge of the tape becomes the edge of your line.
Make sure the lower edge of the paint feathers softly away so you won't see a thick edge of paint later on.

Step 4: Second Color

When the bleed-under layer has dried, paint the second color. Make sure your paint overlaps the location of the tape line.

Step 5: The Reveal

Remove the tape by pulling it at a 90 degree angle. Do this when the paint is wet, if possible.