THE WALLS HAVE THAT SLIGHT TEXTURE OF MOST NEW HOMES BUILT TODAY. THOUGH I TRY TO AVOID TOO MUCH PAINT NEAR THE BLUE TAPE, IT SEEPS. I THOUGHT I SAW ON A HOME IMPROVEMENT SHOW, SOMEONE MENTIONING A SEALER TO AVOID THIS. ANY IDEAS?

Was the suggestion to use a very thin film of caulk over the edge of the blue tape? Seems that's what I heard. I've never done this, but the theory would be that whatever the seal, it would tear cleanly when you pulled off the tape. Yeah right! I would definitely try this on a sample first. And if it is caulk, use one which is paintable and doesn't contain silicone (which is strong and more elastomeric - hence not wanting to tear). If this is the method, you'll probably wind up with a major line between rows, so be sure you can't do what you want by simply pressing the edge of the tape with your thumbnail, and touching up any paint bleeds after you pull the tape. Hint: artists' brushes are our friends!

There is a very simple solution. Tape off your stripes, press down on the tape edge(s) fairly well. Then apply your base wall color to the appropriate edges with a small roller - a 4" fabric roller works most excellent. Wait for it to dry and then apply your stripe color. Remove the tape immediately and you will have beautifully straight lines with no bleeding.

p.s. If you don't have any of your base color for some reason, you can use a clear water based glaze or poly instead. I find the paint works best though.

Water-based glaze works perfectly for sealing the seams. It just takes a quick swipe of it down the edge. Let it dry 20 mins, then paint over it.

BTW, if your blue tape is too hard to work with, try using clear ConTact paper. It has better body, is easier to put up/take down, and is actually cheaper than tape. If you're doing stripes or blocks, it also gives you much better straight lines.