Washi Tape Ideas: Creative Ways to Use Decorative Tape in Crafts

What Is Washi Tape?

Washi tape is a decorative, semi-transparent adhesive tape made from Japanese rice paper. It comes in thousands of patterns, colors, and widths — from delicate floral prints to bold geometric designs. Unlike regular tape, washi tape is repositionable, easy to tear by hand, and safe for photos and paper crafts.

Washi Tape Ideas for Scrapbooking

Washi tape is one of the most versatile scrapbook supplies. Here are creative washi tape ideas for your layouts:

• Photo anchors — Place small strips of washi tape across photo corners for a casual, layered look
• Borders and dividers — Run strips along page edges or between elements to create visual sections
• Background patterns — Cover a section of cardstock with parallel strips of washi tape for an instant patterned background
• Title accents — Layer washi tape behind letter stickers or die-cut titles for added color
• Flag banners — Fold short strips over a piece of twine to create tiny pennant banners

Washi Tape Ideas for Journals

Journals and planners are perfect canvases for washi tape creativity:

• Page tabs — Wrap washi tape around page edges to create colorful section dividers
• Date markers — Use different patterns to mark special dates or weekly sections
• Decorative borders — Frame journal entries with coordinating washi tape strips
• Cover art — Create geometric designs or abstract art on journal covers using layered washi strips

Washi Tape Ideas for Cardmaking

Quick and easy washi tape ideas that make beautiful handmade cards:

• Layer parallel strips across a card front for an instant patterned design
• Create a birthday candle design using vertical strips topped with paper flames
• Use metallic or glitter washi tape as an elegant accent strip
• Frame a stamped sentiment with a washi tape border

For more card inspiration, browse our cardmaking ideas collection.

Tips for Working with Washi Tape

• Layer different widths for visual interest — combine a wide solid with a narrow patterned tape
• Use a craft knife for precise edges when overlapping elements
• Store upright in a clear container so you can see all your patterns at a glance
• Mix collections — Washi tape from different sets often coordinates better than you’d expect

Many of our monthly scrapbooking kits include exclusive washi tape designs that coordinate with that month’s papers and embellishments. See what’s included in each kit and get inspired by our design team’s scrapbook ideas.