What Is Washi Tape?
Rongrong DeVoeEverywhere we look in the crafting world, washi tape continues to spark creativity and curiosity. So, what is washi tape, exactly? At its core, it's a decorative paper tape that blends function with design, but there's so much more to it.
In this article, we'll explain what makes washi tape unique and share some of the most practical and fun washi tape ideas.
From planners and scrapbooks to home décor and gift wrapping, our experience has shown that washi tape can bring both organization and style to everyday projects. By the end, you'll know exactly how to start using it with confidence.
What this article covers:
What Is Washi Tape?
Washi tape is a decorative adhesive made from washi, a traditional Japanese paper that has been valued for centuries. It's typically created from natural fibers such as mulberry, mitsumata, or gampi, which give it a distinctive texture compared to standard wood pulp paper. The result is tape that feels lightweight, flexible, and slightly translucent.
The adhesive is strong enough to stay in place yet gentle enough to peel away without damage. What makes it so appealing is its versatility. You can write on it, tear it by hand, and use it on planners, journals, jars, or even glass without leaving a sticky mess.
What Can You Use Washi Tape for?
Washi tape is joyful, versatile, and one of our favorite crafting supplies. We've seen our pet tape and washi boxes elevate simple projects into something special. This is what to do with washi tape and why we recommend these ideas:
1. Decorating Planners/Journals
Using washi tape in planners or journals is one of the easiest ways to make your pages stand out. You can section off weekly spreads, create headers that pop, or simply add small decorative touches around the margins. The gentle adhesive means you can move pieces around until they look just right.
We've found that mixing widths and patterns gives your layout more personality, while solid colors help keep things clean and organized. Many crafters also like to write directly on the tape to make notes, which is both practical and creative at the same time.
2. Scrapbooking and Memory Keeping
For memory keeping, washi tape will quickly become one of your most trusted scrapbooking accessories. It's ideal for attaching photos, postcards, or concert tickets without worrying about damaging the paper. You can frame a favorite picture, create fun borders, or layer patterns for a textured look.
Coordinating sets of washi is especially helpful when you want to create a cohesive theme across a page. We've seen people use floral designs for wedding albums and bright geometric styles for vacation spreads. Washi tape makes it simple to experiment without needing a lot of other tools or adhesives.
3. Home Décor Accents
Washi tape can easily refresh your living space with small but meaningful details. We've used it on plant pots, photo frames, mirrors, and even light switches, and it holds up beautifully while still being easy to remove when you want a change. Larger rolls work best on furniture edges or shelving, while thinner strips add subtle accents to everyday items.
You can create seasonal decorations, add stripes to glass jars, or even mimic wallpaper designs without committing to anything permanent. It's an affordable way to update your space, and it always adds a touch of personality that feels unique.
4. Labeling & Organizing
If you enjoy keeping your home or office tidy, washi tape is a practical helper. It sticks well on jars, boxes, cables, or folders, and because it's easy to remove, you can relabel as often as you like. We've found that using different colors or patterns is a great way to organize by category, whether it's pantry staples, craft supplies, or important documents.
Writing directly on the tape with a permanent fine liner keeps labels clear and easy to read. It's an organizational tool that brings order while still adding cheerful pops of color to everyday spaces.
5. Gift Wrapping & Packaging
Gift wrapping is one of the most rewarding ways to use washi tape. A simple roll of kraft paper can turn into something festive by layering strips of colorful tape across it. You can seal envelopes neatly, make gift tags more eye-catching, or even create custom ribbon-like designs that match the theme of your present.
We've done this ourselves, and recipients love the extra effort and creativity that shows in these handmade touches. It makes the gift itself feel more thoughtful. Whether you're preparing holiday packages or birthday surprises, washi tape can make wrapping feel fun rather than stressful.
6. Tech and Office Accessories
Washi tape adds personality to the items you use every day. You can decorate the edges of your laptop, wrap tape around phone chargers so they're easy to spot, or brighten up plain office supplies like staplers and pen holders. We've even seen keyboards dressed up with narrow strips that mark out shortcut keys.
Since the adhesive is gentle, it won't leave a sticky mess if you decide to change the look later. It's a fun way to keep workspaces inspiring and to give tech gear a touch of individuality without spending a lot.
7. Seasonal and Holiday Decorations
Washi tape can instantly set the mood for holidays and celebrations. You can use red and green designs to decorate Christmas ornaments, pastel tones for Easter egg displays, or orange and black patterns for Halloween banners. Many people also enjoy making quick bunting by folding strips of tape over twine.
You can use it to dress up candle holders, create festive wall art, or personalize party cups and straws. Because it removes easily, you can refresh your decorations each year without waste. Seasonal crafting feels more fun and affordable when you can switch things up with tape.
8. Creating Custom Cards
Handmade cards always feel personal, and washi tape makes the process quick and enjoyable. You can create bold stripes across the front of a blank card, frame a message with patterned borders, or even cut shapes from tape to build a layered design. We've seen crafters combine floral washi with calligraphy for wedding invitations or use bright colors for children's birthday cards.
The tape sticks neatly to cardstock without warping the paper, and it's easy to reposition until your design feels balanced. With just a few rolls, you can make unique cards for any occasion.
Conclusion
Washi tape combines creativity, practicality, and even eco-consciousness in one simple tool. It's made from traditional Japanese paper, gentle enough to remove, and endlessly versatile for planners, scrapbooks, home décor, gifts, and more. With so many patterns and colors available, it's easy to find tapes that reflect your style and bring personality to any project.
Ready to start your own collection? Explore our curated collection of stickers and washi tape at Shop Rongrong and add a playful, practical touch to your next creative project.
