What Is Washi Tape? Uses, History, and Why Everyone Loves It

Washi tape is proof that the best things come in small rolls! This colorful paper tape tears by hand, sticks to almost anything, and peels right back off when you change your mind. Once you start using it, you'll find a reason to reach for it every single day.

Here's everything you need to know about washi tape, from where it came from to our favorite ways to use it. Crafters, start your engines.

What Is Washi Tape?

Washi tape is a decorative paper tape with a gentle, low-tack adhesive. It's thin, slightly translucent, and easy to tear with your fingers (no scissors required!). It comes in every color and pattern you can imagine, in widths from skinny 5mm strips to wide 30mm rolls and beyond.

The best part? It's repositionable. Stick it down, peel it up, and move it wherever you like.

A Super Brief History of Washi Tape

"Washi" is the Japanese word for traditional Japanese paper, which has been handmade for more than 1,300 years. Washi tape as we know it started in 2006, when a group of artists visited Kamoi Kakoshi, a Japanese company that made industrial masking tape, and asked if they could make it in colors. The company launched its first decorative line, mt, in 2008, and crafters around the world have been hooked ever since.

Who Is Washi Tape For?

Honestly? Everyone. It's especially loved by:

• Planners and journalers who want pretty, color-coded pages
• Crafters and scrapbookers building layouts and cards
• Teachers decorating classrooms, labeling supplies, and making bulletin boards pop
• Parents and kids looking for mess-free creative projects
• Renters who want to decorate without damaging walls
• Gift givers who love a beautifully wrapped package
• Office folks who need to label, organize, and brighten up a desk

Why Washi Tape Is So Great

• It tears by hand. No scissors required.
• It's repositionable. Mistakes are no big deal.
• It's gentle on most surfaces. It peels off paper, walls, and glass cleanly (in most cases).
• You can write on it. Pens and markers work beautifully for labels.
• It's affordable. A single roll goes a long way, so collecting a whole rainbow is easy (and very fun).

25 Ways to Use Washi Tape

Planning and Paper

1. Color-code your planner or bullet journal
2. Create page tabs and bookmarks
3. Frame photos, tickets, and mementos in a scrapbook
4. Decorate handmade cards
5. Seal envelopes and happy mail

Home and Decor

6. Hang art and photos on the wall
7. Make a removable wall "frame" or gallery grid
8. Dress up plain light switch plates
9. Decorate candles, vases, and glass jars
10. Customize picture frames and mirrors
11. Add a stripe of color to shelves and drawers

Organizing

12. Label pantry jars and spice containers
13. Color-code keys
14. Mark cords and chargers so you know which is which
15. Label file folders and storage bins
16. Tag leftovers with the date

Gifts and Parties

17. Wrap gifts and replace ribbon
18. Seal treat bags
19. Decorate party cups, straws, and name cards
20. Make custom cake toppers and flags

Everyday Fun

21. Personalize notebooks, laptops, and phone cases
22. Decorate pencils and pens
23. Mark a spot on the floor for games or photos
24. Brighten up a kid's lunchbox note
25. Make a mini banner with string and folded tape

Washi Tape FAQ

Does washi tape damage walls?
Washi tape is low-tack, so it usually peels off painted walls cleanly. We suggest testing a small spot first, especially on delicate or freshly painted surfaces.

Is washi tape waterproof?
Washi tape is made from paper, so it's happiest when it stays dry. Keep it away from spots that get wet often.

Can you write on washi tape?
Yes! Ballpoint pens, gel pens, and permanent markers all work great.

What's the difference between washi tape and masking tape?
Both are paper tapes. Washi tape is thinner, more decorative, and comes in endless colors and patterns, which makes it perfect for crafting and decorating.

How do you store washi tape?
Keep your rolls somewhere cool and dry. A jar, a drawer, or a dowel rod on the wall all work (and a wall of washi looks amazing).

Ready to start (or add to) your washi tape collection? Check out our collection here!