Abstract: An elongate masking article (1) that can be removably-attached to a vehicle for masking a surface to be painted, the article being formed from polymeric foam which, on the external surface of the article, or at least a lengthwise-extending part thereof, comprises an integral skin (7). The position of the integral skin on the article is such that, when the article is attached to a vehicle for masking a surface to be painted, at least a part of the skin will face generally towards the direction from which paint will be applied.

Abstract: An elongate masking article (1) that can be removably-attached to a vehicle for masking a surface to be painted, the article being formed from polymeric foam which, on the external surface of the article, or at least a lengthwise-extending part thereof, comprises an integral skin (7). The position of the integral skin on the article is such that, when the article is attached to a vehicle for masking a surface to be painted, at least a part of the skin will face generally towards the direction from which paint will be applied.

Abstract: Articles such as elongate strips for use as masking materials when spray painting a vehicle are formed from a compressible polymer material and provided with a surface pattern in an area that has been deformed under pressure to retain a desired shape when the pressure is removed. The surface pattern may be decorative to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the article. Alternatively, the surface pattern may be functional to provide the article with desired properties and/or to present information to the user. The information may be in the form of letters, numbers, symbols, pictures or a combination of any of these to identify the article, its source or to provide instructions for its use. The surface pattern may be formed during the shaping process or applied separately after the shaping operation.