On the subject of masking tape

[Damonkh]

I started modeling many years ago and literally used masking tape. When painters tape came out I switched to that. I tried the canopy liquid maskers but found they were just too much to deal with. I am still using the blue painters tape, but I've noticed everyone using the tamiya(?) yellow tape.

What are the advantages of using that over blue painters tape? What other alternatives are there these days?

Cheers!

[mincemeat]

I started writing this out but then figured I would put it in this format.

Painter's Tape:
Pro:
Tears easy
Fairly inexpensive
Easy to find

Con:
fairly high adhesive, potentially dangerous to paint jobs
Rigid
One size: wide
Designed for home paint jobs, walls, etc


Tamiya tape
Pro:
Tears easy
Different widths
Low tack, usually safe for paint jobs like unprotected acrylic, but prime prime prime
flexible
Designed for models

Con:
Probably more expensive per foot
Not as easy to find


Tamiya seems to be the standard. I've used Bare Metal Foil for canopies. Humbrol Maskol liquid latex for weathering and protecting areas, you'll never get a fine straight line with a liquid mask. I use painters tape to tape paper towel down on a model when it's touching other paper masking or paper towel because it's cheaper. I also use painter's tape for a CA palette.

The peeps on the forum can add to this list, I'm sure. Do what works for you!