How To Prevent Paint Bleeding

1. Use a Quality Decorating Tape

Using a proper decorating tape, not just a masking tape is key to creating crisp lines. Frog Tape Multi-Surface is a good all rounder but it also comes in delicate and gloss and satin to suit your surface.

2. Use a Damp Cloth

Once your tape has been applied, run a damp cloth along it to seal the edges. This helps with any tiny gaps you might not be able to see and minimises the risk of bleeding.

3. Ensure the Tape is Secure

You might think your tape is securely applied, but always press along the edges of the tape to make sure it's adhered fully to the surface and leave no tiny gaps for paint to bleed into.

4. Remove Your Tape Before The Paint is Dry

This step is key, never leave your tape on the surface until the paint is dry or equally, when the paint is still wet. The sweet spot is to remove when the paint is touch dry and to remove it carefully. Don't be fooled by TikTok edits that make it look like you can whip it off in one fell swoop - you'll only be disappointed! Take your time and gently remove the tape while the paint is touch dry.

5. Colour Blocking

If you're colour blocking, it's a good idea to apply your tape and paint over it with the base colour first to seal it, before applying the new colour along the edge. 

6. Use an Angled Brush

Using a quality paint brush for any project is important but when cutting in, using an angled brush will make a huge difference to your finish. Cut at an angle to aid sharp lines, they come in a range of sizes like any other paint brush and some are even designed with a longer handle for those precision projects. We recommend the Axus Blue Angled Pro-Cutter Brush or the Arroworthy Angled Brushes.