Tear the Tape! ...in Art Projects
Using Painter’s Tape in Mixed-Media Crafts Projects
Contractors aren't the only people in need of painter's tape. Mixed media artists use this stuff for a wide variety of projects!
The projects outlined here are created using paint (watercolor or acrylic), rubber-stamping, distressing (with ink pads or brushes) and other wet media applications. If the desire for collaging, assemblage, or other embellishing is present, treat these ideas as the first layer of application.
In altered books: Tape off areas of the page where a border is desired or where clean space is necessary for journal or text blocks. Tear the tape into thin strips to create ruled pages that can be removed. Deckle the edges of the tape to create an interesting look when paint is applied.
On canvas: Place strips of deckled edge painters tape in a pattern across the canvas, and then apply the paint. Allow this to dry, and then add another layer of tape in another direction. Paint the canvas again. This creates a very interesting backdrop for paintings, collages, photography or whatever else is desired. The painter’s tape can also be used to create geometric boxes and borders.
In art journals: Treat this in the same way that an altered book would be treated, and the results will be just as successful. In addition to the altered book ideas, consider using painter’s tape to section off areas for collage, assemblage, painting and journaling. Take advantage of layering whenever the opportunity arises.
On ATCs or ACEOs: These small pieces of canvas can be challenging for some to use, so the use of painter’s tape will help break artist free from artist’s block. Tape off random patterns, similar to the way in which the canvas paintings are created. Once all the painted layers are dried, add embellishments.
On handmade postcards: Create borders (either straight edged or deckled) around the edge of the postcard, and then create the art on one side. Use thin strips of tape on the reverse side to divide the postcard and then create a ruled area for the message and a ruled area for the address. Don't forget handmade greeting cards and their envelopes, as well!
These ideas are just the jumping off point for use of painter’s tape in mixed media art projects. Be sure to use a low-tack tape type so it’s easy to remove from projects without peeling the paper (or other surface) or damaging the art that was created beneath. Sometimes, it’s possible to reuse the tape once it’s been carefully removed from the project. So, don’t be surprised if pieces of tape end up hanging off the edges of this or that all over your art space!
