Finish your paint job with careful tape removal.

A small painting project can look finished until the tape pulls off a piece of paint. Careful removal helps protect the edge you worked to create. These steps are for compatible Scotch painter’s tape on sound indoor surfaces; another tape may have different instructions. Read both the tape package and your paint label before starting.

What you’ll need

• Tape and paint instructions
• Putty knife for careful scoring
• Small bag for used tape

Take it step by step

1. Check the paint label’s drying instructions. Scotch advises waiting until the paint feels dry to the touch. Also check the tape’s maximum removal time; leaving it indefinitely can make cleanup harder.
2. Start at an easy-to-reach end. If paint bridges the tape edge, carefully score that edge with a putty knife as Scotch directs. Keep your free hand away from the edge and avoid digging into the wall.
3. Lift a small tab and pull slowly, folding the tape back over itself at about a 45-degree angle. Work a short section at a time instead of yanking a long strip.
4. Watch the paint line as you go. If adhesive remains, Scotch suggests trying a 90-degree removal angle. If paint starts lifting, stop rather than pulling harder.
5. Gather loose tape as you remove it so the sticky side does not touch furniture or fresh paint. Inspect the edge after removal before deciding whether a small touch-up is needed.

When to ask for help

Ask for help if the coating flakes, the wall surface tears, or scoring feels unsafe. Do not scrape or sand suspect old paint to correct the problem.