I’m having trouble with paint peeling off when I begin removing tape. Is it due to the type of tape, paint mixture or what? I’m new at this and flusterated. What I’m I doing wrong? Cavman
Cavman,
I haven’t come across this recently but last time it happened the masking tape I was using was too strong.The adhesive on the tape was basically to sticky.I have heard of other reasons like:-
The paint not being dry enough.
The paint not adhering properly to the plastic.Possibly incorrect prep work.
The paint too thick.
Too much over spray.
I am sure as there are many experts on this forum that other possibles will surface.
FYI ,These days I normally Tamiya masking tape and I have had good results.
Simon.
Some helpful hints for lift-free painting
Step 1: Lightly sand any “shiney” plastic to give the paint something to hold on to.
Step 2: Thoroughly clean the plastic with non-lotion-bearing detergent to remove all residue from the molding process. This is particularly important for painting with acrylics. Also, Eastern European kits seem to have more paint-repellant goop on the surface than do kits from other regions.
Step 3: Prime the plastic. There are several rattle-can primers that provide good paint adhesion and go on smoothly and evenly.
Step 4: Use a masking tape made for models (Tamiya “yellow” is excellent), and be careful how thoroughly it is burnished. Sure, you need to make sure no paint seeps under the tape, but over burinshing probably is not necessary. If you are getting paint seep, try dusting on a few light coats to seal the tape edge before laying on a heavy final coat. Also, let a paint coat dry before masking over it.
Happy painting
Phil Schenfeld
The problem is usually associated with acrylics, especially if the plastic hasn’t been properly cleaned & primed. Many metallic paints will lift also, no matter how well the model is prepped. Also, as mentioned, the aggressive nature of some tape adhesives can contribute to the problem.
Regards, Rick
Clean model with mild detergent in warm water and use lacquer enhanced primer. You will never have this problem again - ever.
I have had this problem. I use acrylics and have solved the problem by using a good rattle can primer like the one made by Tamiya. Also, give the paint time to dry - like 48 hours before masking. I use Tamiya yellow tape of the blue painters masking tape. Both are low tack but will do the job. There have been some posts on this, look them up and see the other recommendations.
Kurt
I have always heard that using a dish washing detergent works best for this, just the simple cheap kind with no other “enhancements” added in. Has anyone else heard this? Is it true?
I use Palmolive