Review: Scotch Greener Masking Tapes

I was fortunate to receive samples of the new eco friendly Scotch Greener Masking Tapes from 3M for review. I received one roll each of the basic painting tape and the performance painting tape. They happened to arrive before a trip to visit my parents so I turned it over to my Dad to do the tests. For those of you who do not know my father owns a hardware store in Baltimore that has been operating within the family since 1932. I figured he had a prety good grasp on what works and what doesn't when it comes to painting.



The new tapes are made with 56% renewable resources, including paper backing made with 30% post consumer recycled content and adhesive made with natural, regenerating latex harvested from rubber trees. The tapes are manufactured using solvent-free and water-based processes. The tape core contains 87% post-consumer recycled fiber and the shipping cartons are made with 100% recycled fiber. The idea is that the new tapes work as well as the other Scotch masking tapes but use less paper and create less waste.

My Dad put the basic painting tape to the test and you can see his comments right on the photos:







 
So these show that use of the basic painters tape does allow for bleeding when using acrylic paint. The same test was done with oil paint (photo one) and there was no seepage as oil paint dries much more quickly. My Dad suggests using the ScotchBlue painters tape when trying to acheive crisp lines but the Greener Tape is a very good basic masking task that will work well when painting trim and window sills. The high performance painters tape performed better with a tighter seal and less seepage again performing best when used with oil based paints. If you are looking for a greener masking tape this is the way to go.
 
As always Scotch makes fine products for your crafty needs. Go forth and paint, my friends.