Best Tape for Watercolor Paper (3 Great Options)

Watercolor painting is a beautiful and expressive medium, but it often comes with challenges like ensuring clean and crisp borders. That's where finding the best tape for watercolor paper becomes crucial. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting, using the right tape can make a world of difference in your work.

In this guide, I’ll share what makes a tape ideal for watercolor paper, recommend my favorite options, and explain how to use them without damaging your artwork.

Why You Need the Best Tape for Watercolor Paper

Using tape when painting with watercolors helps in multiple ways. It keeps your paper flat, prevents paint from bleeding into unwanted areas, and creates sharp, polished borders that can elevate your artwork. Additionally, it protects the untouched areas of your paper from smudges and accidental splatters. For me, using tape feels like setting a stage for the magic to happen within those boundaries.

But not all tapes are equal. Some stick too firmly and tear the paper, while others don’t adhere well enough to provide clean edges. Let’s break down the top picks for watercolor artists.

Best Tape for Watercolor Paper: My Top Picks

1. ScotchBlue Painter's Masking Tape

ScotchBlue Painter's Masking Tape is my go-to choice for watercolor painting. It’s affordable, widely available, and has the perfect balance of adhesion and removability. The low-tack adhesive ensures your watercolor paper stays intact during removal, which is critical for delicate surfaces.

  • Pros: Creates crisp borders, removes cleanly, and works well on various surfaces.
  • Cons: Can sometimes leave slight residue on heavily textured paper.

For more beginner-friendly tips on mastering your drawing and painting setups, check out basic sketching techniques.

2. TSSART White Art Watercolor Tape

TSSART White Art Watercolor Tape
TSSART White Art Watercolor Tape

TSSART White Art Watercolor Tape is specifically designed for watercolor artists, this tape offers excellent adhesion without the risk of tearing or leaving residue. It’s slightly pricier than ScotchBlue, but the ease of use makes it worth considering.

  • Pros: Perfect for delicate papers, strong adhesion, and clean removal.
  • Cons: Slightly higher price point.

3. Neeho Watercolor Framing Artist Tape

Neeho Watercolor Framing Artist Tape
Neeho Watercolor Framing Artist Tape

Neeho Watercolor Framing Artist Tape excels at keeping paint from seeping under the edges, thanks to its firm grip. It’s acid-free, making it safe for archival purposes.

  • Pros: Strong adhesion, acid-free for preservation.
  • Cons: Requires careful removal on lightweight papers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Tape for Watercolor Paper

When selecting tape for watercolor paper, these are the key factors I always keep in mind:

1. Adhesion Level

You need a tape that sticks well enough to hold the paper in place and create clean edges but doesn’t tear the surface upon removal. Low-tack adhesives are generally the best choice.

2. Acid-Free Material

Acid-free tapes prevent discoloration over time, making them ideal if you plan to frame or sell your artwork.

3. Width of the Tape

A narrower tape works better for small borders, while wider options are ideal for larger pieces. You can also use varied widths to create unique designs.

4. Paper Texture

Heavily textured papers might require stronger adhesion, but you’ll need to balance that with gentle removal techniques.

For more on selecting materials that enhance your art, you might enjoy drawing versus painting.

How to Apply Tape to Watercolor Paper

Here’s how I prep my paper before painting:

  1. Clean the Surface: Make sure your hands and the edges of the paper are clean to ensure proper adhesion.
  2. Cut and Position the Tape: Tear or cut strips slightly longer than each edge of your paper. Align them carefully for straight edges.
  3. Press Firmly: Use a clean, dry cloth to press down the tape, ensuring no gaps where paint can seep through.
  4. Remove After Drying: Once your painting is completely dry, peel the tape back slowly at a 45-degree angle to avoid tearing.

If you're new to working with materials and tools, you’ll find my article on how to gesso paper helpful for preparing surfaces.

Preventing Tape from Tearing Watercolor Paper

Even the best tape can tear your paper if not handled properly. Here are my tips for avoiding that frustration:

  • Reduce Adhesion: Before applying, stick the tape to your clothing a couple of times to reduce its tackiness.
  • Work Slowly: Peel the tape off gently, pulling it back on itself at a sharp angle.
  • Use Heat: A hairdryer on a low setting can help soften the adhesive for easier removal.
  • Experiment with Brands: Some tapes work better on certain papers. Testing a few can help you find the right match.

If you're interested in mastering materials and techniques, take a look at analytical drawing for a structured approach to improving your art.

Creative Uses for Tape in Watercolor Painting

Besides creating clean edges, tape can also be a versatile tool for adding creative flair to your paintings:

Masking Shapes

Use tape to block out shapes and patterns before painting. Once the paint dries, peel off the tape to reveal striking negative space designs.

Creating Texture

By layering and removing tape in stages, you can create unique textures and layered effects in your artwork.

For inspiration on experimenting with textures and patterns, check out my guide to easy texture drawing ideas.

What tape should I avoid for watercolor paper?

Avoid duct tape, packing tape, or any tape with high-tack adhesive, as they’re almost guaranteed to damage your paper.

Can I use washi tape?

Washi tape is decorative and has a low tack, making it suitable for lighter watercolor projects. However, it’s not the most reliable for creating crisp edges.

How do I fix tears caused by tape?

If the tape tears your paper, try gently gluing the torn section back with an archival adhesive. It’s not ideal but can save your piece in a pinch.
For more on preserving your work, visit my article on how to preserve a pencil drawing.

Finding the best tape for watercolor paper can transform your painting experience. My top recommendation is ScotchBlue Painter’s Masking Tape for its reliability and affordability. But depending on your needs, options like TSSART White Art Watercolor Tape or Neeho Watercolor Framing Artist Tape might be worth trying.

Whether you’re creating crisp borders or exploring creative techniques, the right tape can make a big difference. For more tips on exploring your artistic process, check out my article on sketchbook tips for beginners.

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