Easy Washi Tape Crafts for Beginners

Washi tape is a decorative adhesive tape that originated in Japan in 2006. It is known for its colorful and intricate designs, making it a popular choice for various crafts and DIY projects.

With its endless array of colors, patterns, sizes, and designs, this crafting essential can be used in countless ways. From simple home decor projects to handmade cards, the possibilities are truly endless.

On this page, you'll find 15 easy and creative ideas for using washi tape.

What is washi tape?

Washi tape is a type of decorative adhesive tape made from traditional Japanese paper called "washi."

Crafters who had been using masking tape for their art projects requested that a company make a line of decorative masking tapes, with various patterns and designs. This is the origin of washi tapes. It comes in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and designs, making it a versatile and fun paper crafting material.

Learn more about the history of washi tape.

How to Use Washi Tape

Using washi tape is incredibly easy! Just like any other adhesive, you can stick it on any surface that you want to cover or decorate. It can be used on various surfaces including paper, wood, plastic, and glass. Here are some simple ways to use washi tape:

1. Decorate Notebooks and Journals: Use washi tape to add colorful borders, and patterns, or even create unique designs on the covers of your notebooks and journals.

2. Customize Pens and Pencils: Wrap a strip of washi tape around the body of your pens and pencils to give them a personalized and decorative touch.

3. Create Wall Art: Use washi tape to create simple yet eye-catching wall art. You can make geometric patterns, and stripes, or even use it to frame photos and artwork.

4. Make Handmade Greeting Cards: Add a pop of color and pattern to your homemade greeting cards by incorporating washi tape into your designs.

5. Labeling and Organization: Use washi tape to label containers, folders, and other organizational items. It's a fun and stylish way to keep things organized.

Find Out What Is Washi Tape Used For

6. DIY Bookmarks: Create unique and colorful bookmarks by adding strips of washi tape to plain cardstock or paper.

7. Personalize Electronic Devices: Decorate phone cases, laptop covers, and other electronic devices with washi tape to give them a personalized touch.

8. Party Decorations: Use washi tape to create banners, cupcake toppers, and other decorations for parties and special occasions.

9. Upcycle Furniture: Give old furniture a new look by adding decorative accents with washi tape. It's a simple way to add a pop of color and pattern to your home decor.

10. Kid-Friendly Crafts: Washi tape is a great crafting material for kids. They can use it to make bracelets, decorate picture frames, or create their own unique artwork.

11. Decorate Journal Pages: Whatever type of journaling you’re into, there’s a washi tape out there for you. From slim and shiny to wide and floral - you can personalize your journal pages with these nifty tapes.

The video below shows 5 super easy ways to use washi tapes in paper crafting.

All You Need to Know and Where to Buy Washi Tapes

Washi Tape Crafts Ideas

If you're new to the world of washi tape crafts, don’t worry! We've got plenty of beginner-friendly projects to help you get started. Learn how to make custom greeting cards, decorate plain notebooks and journals, or add a touch of whimsy to your phone case or laptop. With just a few rolls of washi tape and some basic crafting supplies, you'll be amazed at what you can create.

For those looking for more advanced projects, we've got you covered too. Learn how to make intricate washi tape wall art, personalized home decor accents, or even fashion accessories that will make a statement. We’ve got step-by-step tutorials and expert tips to guide you through the process, ensuring that your finished creations are nothing short of stunning.

Here are 17 easy and creative washi tape craft ideas for kids and adults!

1. Washi Tape Bookmarks: Create colorful and unique bookmarks by layering different patterns of washi tape on cardstock or laminated paper.

2. Washi Tape Jewelry: Cut out simple shapes or designs from washi tape, add some crystal drops, and earring hooks, and voila!

3. Washi Tape Candles: Add decorative bands of washi tape to plain candles to create custom designs for special occasions or home decor.

4. Washi Tape Plant Pots: Give plain plant pots a colorful makeover by wrapping them with vibrant patterns of washi.

5. Washi Tape Photo Frames: Use washi tape to decorate plain photo frames, adding a pop of color and personality to your favorite pictures.

6. Washi Tape Gift Wrap: Create unique and eye-catching gift wrap by using different patterns of washi to decorate plain wrapping paper or gift bags.

7. Washi Tape Coasters and Tray: Make custom coasters by covering plain tiles with colorful patterns of washi and sealing them with a protective coating. You can do this with existing cork or wood coasters. Take it to the next level by decorating your favorite tray with the same washi tape!

8. Washi Tape Envelopes: Create a stylish envelope for handmade cards and wedding invitations using elegant floral washi tapes.

9. Washi Tape Bunting: Make festive bunting by stringing together strips of washi in coordinating colors and patterns.

10. Washi Tape Clothespins: Decorate plain clothespins with strips of washi tape to create stylish clips for hanging photos, notes, or cards.

11. Washi Tape Laptop Keyboard: Customize your laptop keyboard by adding small strips of washi to the edges of the keys for a fun and colorful look.

12. Washi Tape Easter Eggs: Use washi tape to create unique designs on Easter eggs by cutting out small pieces of tape and arranging them in patterns.

13. Washi Tape Wall Calendar: Create a reusable wall calendar by using washi to outline the days of the week and add decorative elements.

14. Washi Tape Scrapbook: Add a pop of color and texture to your scrapbook pages with plain, colored, or patterned washi. 

15. Washi Tape Party Hats: Create custom party hats by decorating plain cone hats with colorful patterns and designs using washi.

16. Washi Tape Box: Repurpose and recycle old boxes by decorating them with strips of washi tape.

17. Washi Tape Decor: Want to refresh the look of wooden decor? Wrap them up in your chosen washi and you’ll have a new DIY decor in no time.

Discover Cool Washi Tape Ideas and Designs

Conclusion

Washi tape is a versatile and fun crafting material that offers endless creative possibilities. Whether you're looking for a fun weekend project, a thoughtful gift idea, or simply a way to add some personality to your surroundings, there are countless ways to use this colorful and decorative adhesive tape in your DIY projects.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)