Drafting tape, also known as masking tape or artist's tape, is an essential tool for artists, designers, and anyone working with precise lines and shapes. It's a thin, pressure-sensitive adhesive tape used for temporarily securing paper, stencils, or other materials to a drawing surface.
Key Features of Drafting Tape
- Low Tack: Drafting tape is designed to have a low adhesive strength, allowing it to be easily removed without damaging the surface underneath.
- Clear or Colored: You can find drafting tape in clear or various colors, depending on your needs. Clear tape is ideal for delicate work, while colored tape can help to mark areas or create temporary guidelines.
- Available in Different Widths: Drafting tape comes in different widths, allowing you to choose the best size for your project.
- Matte Finish: The matte finish of drafting tape helps to prevent glare and reflections, making it ideal for precise drawing and drafting.
Uses of Drafting Tape
Here are some of the common uses for drafting tape:
1. Securing Paper
Drafting tape is used to securely hold paper down on a drawing board or table. This ensures that the paper doesn't move or slip during drawing or sketching.
2. Creating Stencils
Drafting tape can be used to create temporary stencils by attaching a stencil to a surface. This is useful for repeating shapes or patterns.
3. Masking Areas
Drafting tape can be used to mask off areas that you don't want to paint or color. This is particularly useful for creating sharp lines and clean edges.
4. Creating Guides
Drafting tape can be used to create temporary guides for drawing or cutting. This helps to ensure that lines are straight and angles are accurate.
Tips for Using Drafting Tape
- Apply gentle pressure: When applying drafting tape, avoid pressing too hard as this could damage the surface underneath.
- Remove tape slowly: When removing drafting tape, pull it slowly and gently at an angle to prevent tearing.
- Store properly: Keep drafting tape in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming sticky or brittle.
Drafting tape is a versatile and indispensable tool for anyone working with precision and detail. With its low tack and matte finish, it allows you to create clean, sharp lines and shapes without damaging your work surface.