Abstract: A masking device is produced by folding a first material to form a pleat that serves as an extension or handle, for the device. By folding the first sheet of material at three fold lines, a pleat is formed. If the piece of material is coated with adhesive prior to the folding process, two adhesive-coated surfaces will face each other within the body of the pleat, helping to attach two segments of the pleat together to form a more permanent and more rigid extension. The extension, or handle, extends from an unfolded portion of the first piece of material and facilitates the removal of the masking device from either a backing sheet or a surface which is protected by the masking device. The handle also facilitates the application of the masking device to the surface to be protected.