Ask an Expert - Forum > Masking tape and masking fluid tears paper
Thank you for your feedback and for giving Stonehenge Aqua Hot Press paper a try. I’m sorry to hear about your experience with tearing and lifting when using tape and masking fluid. Let’s address this issue and recommend steps to improve your results.
Why Tearing May Occur:
Stonehenge Aqua is made of 100% cotton and is sized to allow for excellent absorbency while maintaining strength during typical watercolor techniques. However, as with any hot press paper, its smoother surface can sometimes lead to adhesion challenges with tape and masking fluid. When these materials bond too strongly, they can pull fibers from the paper when removed.
Email us directly at info [at] legionpaper.com and we'd be happy to send you a roll and replace the paper.
Some other tips:
- We recommend Holbein SoftTape (https://www.dickblick.com/products/holbein-soft-tape/). It provides secure adhesion during painting and removes cleanly without damaging the surface of Stonehenge Aqua.
- There are videos here showing which tapes and fluids we recommend and how to use them: https://legionpaper.com/stonehenge-aqua (on the right, midway down)
Tape Usage:
1. Use the best tape: Holbein SoftTape is recommended for use with Stonehenge Aqua paper. It’s low-tack and less likely to damage the surface compared to traditional masking tape.
2. Prepare the Tape: Before applying the tape to the paper, press it against a clean fabric (like a cotton t-shirt) to reduce its tackiness further.
3. Remove Tape Gently: Pull the tape back on itself at a low angle and very slowly to minimize the risk of tearing.
Masking Fluid Application:
1. Use Recommended Masking Fluids:
2. Dry Completely: Ensure the masking fluid is completely dry before you begin painting. Rushing this step can increase the risk of tearing when removing it.
3. Apply with Care: Use a light touch when applying the masking fluid, avoiding vigorous brushing that could abrade the surface.
4. Remove Masking Fluid Gently: To lift the masking fluid, use a rubber cement pickup or your fingertips and rub softly. Avoid tools like hard erasers that can stress the paper.
Why Tearing May Occur:
Stonehenge Aqua is made of 100% cotton and is sized to allow for excellent absorbency while maintaining strength during typical watercolor techniques. However, as with any hot press paper, its smoother surface can sometimes lead to adhesion challenges with tape and masking fluid. When these materials bond too strongly, they can pull fibers from the paper when removed.
Email us directly at info [at] legionpaper.com and we'd be happy to send you a roll and replace the paper.
Some other tips:
- We recommend Holbein SoftTape (https://www.dickblick.com/products/holbein-soft-tape/). It provides secure adhesion during painting and removes cleanly without damaging the surface of Stonehenge Aqua.
- There are videos here showing which tapes and fluids we recommend and how to use them: https://legionpaper.com/stonehenge-aqua (on the right, midway down)
Tape Usage:
1. Use the best tape: Holbein SoftTape is recommended for use with Stonehenge Aqua paper. It’s low-tack and less likely to damage the surface compared to traditional masking tape.
2. Prepare the Tape: Before applying the tape to the paper, press it against a clean fabric (like a cotton t-shirt) to reduce its tackiness further.
3. Remove Tape Gently: Pull the tape back on itself at a low angle and very slowly to minimize the risk of tearing.
Masking Fluid Application:
1. Use Recommended Masking Fluids:
2. Dry Completely: Ensure the masking fluid is completely dry before you begin painting. Rushing this step can increase the risk of tearing when removing it.
3. Apply with Care: Use a light touch when applying the masking fluid, avoiding vigorous brushing that could abrade the surface.
4. Remove Masking Fluid Gently: To lift the masking fluid, use a rubber cement pickup or your fingertips and rub softly. Avoid tools like hard erasers that can stress the paper.
December 21, 2024 |
Legion
Legion
I’m a watercolorist, I ran out of my usual watercolor paper and decided to try a new one so I bought Stonehenge hot press aqua paper. I traced my drawing onto the paper and taped the edges with a low tac tape and also used masking fluid to block out certain areas. To my surprise and horror the paper tears and lifts when I tried to remove both the tape and the latex. I was very gentle, as I always am, but this paper just can’t handle it. I’m very disappointed and it’s not like this is cheap paper either. What have you all done to remedy this situation?