In case you haven't learned the hard way, masking tapes come in various tack strengths. If you've used the old-fashioned beige stuff on a freshly painted wall, you know what I mean. Blue masking tape is much more forgiving, and because the adhesive doesn't dry out as quickly, you can leave it on a surface much longer. It costs more, but it's worth it.

For really sensitive surfaces like cabinets or wallpaper, I use low-tack green tape. Green tape doesn't have nearly the adhesive strength as blue tape, but can hold brown masking paper without damaging a finish. Draping tape also is handy because both sides are sticky. I'm able to adhere the tape right to a wall or cabinet, then apply plastic or paper masking right on top of the tape. I source both tapes through Tape Specialties.

Sources of Supply

O-Gee Paint
866-666-1935
www.o-geepaint.com

Pro Tect
800-545-0826
www.pro-tect.com

Protective Products
800-789-6633
www.protectiveproducts.com

Tape Specialties
800-463-8273
www.thegreentape.com

ULine
800-958-5463
www.uline.com