Is there an alternative to using regular painter's tape to paint white baseboards without paint seeping onto your hardwood floors through the tape?

Alternatives to Painters Tape

There are three methods I've used:

• The green tape works wonders and can be put on the floor so the paint from the baseboards doesn't get on it.

• Take the baseboards off and paint them (big job I know)

• Take an old piece of venetian blind slat and push it under between the floor and baseboard. Paint along your baseboard, be sure to carefully removed the slat and wipe excess paint off it. If you don't have a slat, then use a wide putty knife and push lightly between the floor and the baseboard and start painting, but remember to move the putty knife carefully and wipe clean before you move on.

The trick of it all is, no matter what you use, is not to over-load your paint brush with paint. A little goes a long way.

Also use Latex paint as it works just as good as oil. If you already have oil on it, then you will have to sand them first to get the oil paint off.

Here is another opinion:

Among all the other things I have done, I did a lot of painting. When I first started teaching one of the "older" teacher at the time was a painter on the side. I painted for him for five bucks and hour UTT (under the table) and he taught me everything he knew about painting.

Many professional painters do not use tape, they "cut-in" on edges. The key is a good quality brush. I see people painting with a 79 cent brush they bought and they expect it to work. I use Purdy brushes. Buy a Purdy 2 1/2" (63mm) angle brush. ABout $14 at Lowe's. A good brush, and a steady hand is what makes the difference.

Painters trick: Even with a steady hand and a good brush it may not always be perfect. That's why professional painters always carry a rag and a putty knife. (I like my rag slightly damp) After you have cut in a section of base. Flip your rag over the end of your putty knife and run it along the floor and against the bottom of the baseboard. This will clean up any paint on the hardwood but not take the paint off the baseboard. This also will work for tape blead through if it's not too dry.

If don't feel secure about painting without using tape, use 3M's 60day tape. It has no texture to it, it burnishes down tightly, and gives you a very crisp edge. It is alittle pricey but worth it!

First answer by ID407240693. Last edit by Koots. Contributor trust: 109 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 92 [recommend question]