Step 7: Cut the Tape with a Putty Knife

cutting painter's tape with a putty knife
Photo: Kolin Smith
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Cut each piece of tape perfectly by tearing it against a putty knife: Hold the blade on the tape and rip away from the knife to execute a perfect cut and make sharp corners for each square.
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    More in Painting & Finishes

    Tools List

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    • Sanding Sponge
      150-grit sanding sponge
    • paint roller with extension
      Paint tray and roller frame with extension pole
    • straight edge
      Ruler or yardstick
    • framing square
      Framing square
    • putty knife
      Putty knife
    • roller frames
      Mini roller frame
    • paintbrush
      2½-inch polyester-nylon paintbrush

    Shopping List

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    1. porch and floor paint Stands up to foot traffic and scuffs better than wall paint. One gallon covers 300 square feet; you'll need enough base color for two coats and enough pattern color to cover half the floor with two coats.

    2. painter's tape Get tape labeled "delicate," which is the least tacky, so it won't pull up the base-coat paint when removed.

    3. ½-inch nap roller

    4. 3-inch mini foam roller

    5. water-based polyurethane (optional) For a top coat of added durability. Satin finish will look best.