Can You Use Scotch Tape When Painting with Watercolor?

Adding Scotch tape to your watercolor painting toolkit can seem like a simple solution for creating defined edges or areas, but it's crucial to handle it with care. In this article, we will cover the best practices, alternatives, and potential issues when incorporating Scotch tape into your watercolor projects.

Choosing the Right Tape

While Scotch tape can be used, it is not the optimal choice for watercolor painting. It can damage the paper, create unwanted tacks, and fail to provide a clean edge. We recommend using painters tape or masking tape specifically designed for art projects. These tapes are less likely to damage the paper and are more effective in providing the clean lines you need.

Surface Preparation

Before applying any tape, ensure that your watercolor paper is clean and dry. This step is vital for the tape to adhere properly and prevent any paint from seeping underneath. Using a clean surface will ensure that your tape stays in place during painting, providing a clear and defined boundary.

Testing and Adhesive Strength

Always test your tape on a scrap piece of paper before using it on your main project. This test will help you determine if the tape pulls up the paper when removed and whether it creates a sharp edge as expected. Be cautious of the adhesive strength; if the tape is too sticky, it may tear the paper. If it’s not sticky enough, it may allow paint to seep through, ruining your work.

Expert Recommendations

According to many experienced artists, using tape can be a useful tool when used correctly. However, it's recommended to use Washi tape if possible, as it tends to work better than Scotch tape. While Washi tape might be a bit more expensive, it offers better results in terms of adherence and removal.

For those who must use Scotch tape, it's advisable to reduce its tackiness. Applying a light coat of setting spray to the tape can help it stick to the paper without being too adhesive. This technique can prevent the tape from pulling up the paper and causing damage.

Precautions and Risks

Ultimately, if you're working on watercolor papers, Scotch tape is not an ideal option due to its drawbacks. Its adhesive is likely to pull up the paper's surface, and it is not effective in preventing liquid from passing through. Leaving the tape on the paper for more than a few hours can lead to sticky, gummy residue that is difficult to remove.

If your intention is to tape down the paper while painting, you need a strong adhesive that can hold the paper securely. For masking areas, Scotch tape is not sufficient, as it may cause the paper to rip and is not a good barrier to liquid.

In summary, while Scotch tape can be used in watercolor painting, it should be a last resort. Utilizing painters tape or masking tape, and experimenting with different tacks and adhesives, can help you achieve cleaner, sharper lines in your watercolor paintings.