FAQ

• Citrus-based cleaners
• Hydrocarbon solvent such as turpentine; a toluene-based cleaner
• For ScotchBlue™ Painter’s Tapes, try one or more of the following:
• 3M™ Wallpaper and Paste Remover
• Citrus-based cleaners
• Ammonia-based cleaner
NOTE: Different tapes use different types of adhesives, so choose the cleaner carefully;
test in an inconspicuous place before use.
• When using cleaners, wipe with a cheesecloth or loose-nap fabric rags to allow the adhesive
residue to imbed into the fabric.
• After using cleaners, rinse surface with a generous amount of clean water.
• If the adhesive residue has been on the surface for a long time or is highly cured, scraping may
be required to break up the adhesive in order to remove it.
• If ScotchBlue™ Painter’s Tape is used on or with a lacquer coating, the surface may react with the
adhesive on the tape, making it difficult to remove. In this case, buffing or sanding may be
required to remove the adhesive from the surface.
NOTE: Removing adhesive residue can put the surface it is adhered to at risk. If mechanical
means (like scraping or abrading) are required to remove adhesive residue, most painted surfaces
are at risk and have the potential to be damaged, regardless of the type of finish or level of cure
time.
Why does paint pull up or crack when tape is removed?
Often this is due to the fact that the surface wasn’t primed first. Also, different paints have different
compositions – some are hard and easy to clean, others are more durable and stretchy. Different
kinds of paint react differently with tape. To ensure clean removal of tape, especially when thick paints
are used or when painting multiple coats, score the edge of the tape before removing.
What are some tips to reduce film formation of paint on the tape?
When most coatings, including paints, are applied to a surface they form a continuous film. Some
paints form very elastic films, especially ones designed for extra durability or "scruabbability". When
painting, the edge of the film may extend over the tape and when the paint film is very elastic it may
stretch and pull away from the surface when the tape is removed. To prevent this from happening,
make sure the surface is primed so the paint has a good surface to bond to. After painting, it is
recommended to score the edge of the tape to break the film at the edge of the tape. This will simplify
removal and help maintain a clean, professional paint line.
History:
When was masking tape invented?
Masking tape was invented at 3M in 1925 by one of our scientists, Richard Drew for use by
professional painters in residential and commercial painting applications. 3M invented the product now
known as ScotchBlue™ Painter’s Tape in 1988. It was originally developed for use in two-toned
painting on automobiles. ScotchBlue™ Painter’s Tape revolutionized the masking tape industry,
because it was the first tape developed that resists UV light and allows for longer masking times.
Why is ScotchBlue™ Painter’s Tape blue?
The medium blue color of ScotchBlue™ Painter’s Tape is a protectable registered trademark for
Painter’s Tape and is owned by 3M Company. The reason behind the color is to
distinguish ScotchBlue™ Painter’s Tape from the tapes of other businesses.
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