Washi tape is a multi purpose type of masking tape you can use in your journals, artworks, cards and more. It’s the perfect material to decorate your paper, make borders or use directly as masking tape.
A quick search for "washi inspiration" on Pinterest and you'll figure out what the hype is about - Washi tape has become very popular, its low tack adhesive makes it perfect for working with paper as it allows you to reposition it easily.
This versatile tape is made out of very thin rice paper, making it very easy to tear with your own hand and create beautiful effects in your journals.
Why is washi tape so popular?
Washi tape has taken the market by storm because there are so many different washi tape patterns and lovely colours that every person can find washi tape according to their taste.
What is so special about washi tape? Everyone can find their favourite design, and use it across different mediums and applications. From the more traditional Japanese washi tape designs, to cute and adorable characters, botanical washi, vintage washi, floral designs, food and more!
We chose to create a rainbow set containing 10 rolls of washi representing the rainbow to allow each person to customize and decorate their washi tapes however they desire!
Can I write on washi tape?
Big YES! You can write over washi tape because it’s made of paper.
We recommend using Life of Colour paint pens over the washi tape to make cool patterns and decorate your planners, journals and cards with different colour combinations.
You can also write over it with any type of pencil, pen, acrylic paint, crayons and more!
How to use washi tape in your planner
There are many planner and bujo washi uses, some people use the washi as an accessory, holding other scraps of paper, while others use the washi to create sections and lines to write on.
Create a washi tape swatch in your bujo bullet journal - @sleepy.bujo
You need to find inspiration on a style of planner you like and try to mimic the washi tape use first. Eventually you’ll figure out what works best for you and your planner style.
Washi tape is a staple for bullet journal and no bujo kit is complete without a set of washi!
Washi tape for journaling
If you like to do art or junk journals, then washi can be your ally, being used as painters tape or masking tape for clean edges on your paper.
You can also integrate it into your layouts by creating patterns and texture using your washi.
Use washi tape to create backgrounds on your art journal - Lisa Oxley
Washi tape for gift wrapping
Adding a splash of colour to your gift wrapping can be a great detail. It’s also very important to know, since washi can be repositioned, people often save the little bits of washi and reuse it on their journals or for other gifts (it is a great improvement from cello tape).
You can paint your own pattern or write the name of the person you are giving it to for a customized look.
Washi tape for painting
Have you ever watched those satisfying masking tape peeling videos on Instagram? Did you notice most of them use washi tape? Painters tape can be harsh on paper, so a lot of artists began experimenting with washi tape to get clean edges on their pieces.
Specially, washi tape for watercolor artists is the key to clean edges. This kind of tape is a lot less harsh on the paper surface, preventing paper tearing.
Learn more about the differences between washi tape, masking tape and painter's tape.
Washi tape for walls
This was a use that we were both surprised and amazed by! Of course you can use washi tape to hang pictures on your wall or bedroom door, but how about making a nice design on a wall using washi tape? That’s new!
Use washi tape to hang art on your walls - thecraftedlife.com
Create a polaroid wall using washi tape frames - 100layercake.com
Washi tape for envelopes
Treating every envelope that leaves your house as a planner spread is a form of art that has taken off lately, bringing a whole new level to envelope design and customization.
Use washi tape to decorate envelopes - sincerelysarad.com
You can of course use washi tape to seal envelopes, but also to embellish them and turn them into a work of art! Not only washi can be used, but various forms of stencils and stamps to create a special look for the envelopes.Use watercolour for an extra pop of colour and flair!
Create your own washi tape patterns combining washi tapes - whitehousecrafts.net
Lovely mixed media envelope washi ideas - Cindy Gilfillan
We hope we inspired you to think new and exciting uses for your washi tape. Craft your colourful heart out with Life of Colour 10-pack of rainbow washi tape rolls.
Sally Lawyer
April 22, 2022
What tool is used for cutting details out of tape