What is Washi tape?

If you are one of those crafters, bullet journalers, and stationery enthusiasts, you may have noticed that washi tape has become more popular in the stationery and scrapbooking industries in recent years. But what is washi tape?

Washi tape is frequently included in new scrapbooking releases coordinating with the rest of the line to preserve those priceless memories beautifully and artistically. Moreover, washi tape is a decorative, lovely masking tape made of paper and natural, sustainable fibers like hemp and bamboo. Therefore, it can maintain cost-effective prices and durability while being environmentally friendly. Since washi tapes are so diverse and have many different designs and colorful, working with them is enjoyable. Read on and explore the washi tape's amazing world and its origins in Japanese arts and crafts.

What is Japanese Washi Tape?

Rice paper is used to create ornate tapes known as washi. These tapes come in a variety of vibrant and original patterns. They are a fantastic creation option and are frequently used in paper crafts, other artistic endeavors, and craft projects. Washi tapes are a typical embellish for scrapbooks. Additionally, these tapes are frequently referred to as Japanese masking tapes because they were first produced under the name MT masking tape in Japan.

Where does Japanese Washi Tape Originate?

Washi tape originates from handcrafted Japanese paper known as "washi," which uses natural fibers like bamboo, gampi tree, and rice plants to manufacture paper and gives the finished product a particular matte texture. The washi tape was initially created by the Kamoi Kakoshi Company and utilized for industrial purposes under the name MT masking tape. But after a few amazing meetings between the business owner Kamoi and a group of women who were art enthusiasts, the decorative tapes were created with more colors, shapes, and designs, and it has since taken the world by storm.

How does Washi Tape is Made?

Traditional Japanese rice paper is used to create washi tape. The lengthy process begins with the use of various brands of rubber. First, these rubber blocks are cut into 5 mm-wide pieces. Then, the rubber is kneaded and mixed to create a softer substance. Next, the rubber is heated while a plastic resin is added, and as soon as the rubber exits the dyeing machines, the adhesive is added to create the tape backing. After that, the rolls are reeled up and prepared for transport to the main factory for finishing touches.

How can you use Washi Tape?

The only limit of washi tape designs is that your creativity is your only true limitation. There will always be a design that meets your demands because there are so many different colors, sizes, and washi tape patterns available. Here are some examples of creative uses for washi tapes.

• Decoration

You can give your bullet journal a lot of color and texture with washi tapes. It's a great tool for making plain diary pages stand out. Of course, washi tape embellishment is not limited to your bullet notebook, in addition to being a fantastic decorative tool on paper. Washi tapes are also an excellent decorative tool for painting walls, furniture, pots, cups, vases, photos, hang art, pens, borders, nail art, and everything else.

• Gift Wrapping

You can also use washi tape for gift wrapping. By using washi tape, you may make your own patterns and customize your gifts for the recipients rather than adhering to a single pattern on pre-printed rolls of wrapping paper. Most crafters usually start with a simple white or brown wrapping paper and then decorate it with various washi tape types to create their own designs or unique artwork.

What are the Best Washi Tapes?

• MT Washi Tapes

The Japanese business Kamoi Kakoshi, which has been producing industrial adhesives for more than a century, developed the first washi tape, MT, in 2006. Although thin and sturdy, this tape may be readily removed without leaving any residue because of its low tack adhesive quality. Moreover, the 10 solid colors in this set range from lime green to pink. Combined, they can create stunning effects and be gorgeous when used in DIY projects, card making, daily planners, and journaling.

• Kamiiso Saien Masking Tapes

Kamiiso Saien Masking Tapes boast their intriguing washi tape motifs. The rolls have images of everything from beautiful kittens to flowers to fruit wrapped in chocolate. The aesthetic is classy, and the soft hues perfectly reflect the unique designs. These washi creations are pieces of beauty on their own. Although they aren't the finest for writing on, you'll smile everywhere you stick them because they are just excellent adhesives.

Where to Buy Washi Tapes?

Washi tapes are affordable and simple to buy online or at local craft stores near you. Washi tape rolls start at $3, so you have plenty of options to start your collection. Visit the Sugoi Mart stationery collection and discover the hundreds of styles and patterns available, including some iconic paintings, flower prints, gold-speckled patterns, and more. You can also check the Inku Crate for a more exciting washi tape hunt!

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