Green wall with textured surface fireplace

How to paint textured walls and surfaces

Not all painting projects are the same. Heavy textured surfaces present unique challenges for any painter. We have some suggestions to help.

FIND OUT WHERE TO BUY SCOTCH® MASKING TAPE

Masking textured surfaces - Step by step instructions

With a few extra tips, we can help you prep tile, stone, heavy-grain wood and other heavily textured surfaces, so you can paint with confidence. Check out our product catalogue to see which 3M™ Scotch® Masking Tape best suits your project. Then follow the steps below to make sure your surface is prepared right.

  • Scotch® Masking Tape shown in blue and green packaging
    Step 1: Choose the right tape

    Choose the right tape for the right job: whether you are decorating indoors or outdoors - we can help guide you (PDF, 1.3 MB) with the correct masking tape choice.

  • Image showing a paint lid with orange paint, masking tape and a paint brush
    Step 2: Recommended equipment

    Here is a list of our recommended tools to get you started:

  • Man applying 3M masking tape around a fireplace with a textured surface
    Step 3: Apply tape

    Make sure the surface is clean and dry. Lay tape onto the surface, and don't forget to press firmly along the edges so that it bonds well and will leave you with clean paint lines.

  • Man measuring up to tape around a fireplace with textured surface
    Step 4: Paint

    Apply the new paint colour. Then remove the masking tape before allowing the paint to dry.

Scotch® Masking Tapes and how you compare best tape for your project

Find the right Scotch® Masking Tape for your project

Compare all Scotch® Masking Tapes in one chart, to find the best tape for your project.

DOWNLOAD OUR MASKING TAPES SELECTION GUIDE (PDF, 1.3 MB)

Read our other How To Tape Tips

Take a look at some of our other handy guides for using masking tape to help you paint areas such as doors and floors, and create the perfect finish.

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