Do you love washi tape as much as I do? I have to admit I’m developing a slight obsession with it, and I’m always on the lookout for washi tape ideas for my bullet journal.
Not familiar with washi tape? Wondering why so many people love it? Or looking for washi tape ideas too?
Read on to find out more…
What is washi tape?
Washi tape is a thin (semi-transparent) decorative adhesive tape made from Japanese paper. (The word Washi comes from wa meaning ‘Japanese’ and shi meaning ‘paper’)
Washi is made from the natural fibres of Japanese shrubs such as gampi, mitsumata or paper mulberry, which makes it tougher than paper made from tree pulp.
The Origins of washi tape
The story starts in 2006 when 3 women from Tokyo got in touch with the specialist paper adhesive company Kamoi Kakoshi with a request.
The women had created a beautifully designed mini book using Komoi masking tape and requested that the company manufacture more tape in a variety of new colours.
The company had never considered a use for their tape outside of the industrial painting context and, impressed by the book the women had created, they worked to fulfil the women’s request.
The result was 20 new colours, like a set of coloured pencils, and the beginning of a new brand, MT (literally, Masking Tape). They’ve since gone on to create an incredible range of beautiful colours, patterns, and designs.
Although washi tape is now made by other manufacturers in Asia, MT brand is still considered by many to be the best quality.
These days washi tape is available to purchase in many stores worldwide, as well as online via Etsy, Amazon
and specialty stationery websites.
These are some of my favourite MT wash tapes available from Etsy.
Why is washi tape so popular?
Washi tape is beloved by bullet journal enthusiasts, artists and crafters all over the world for being both beautiful, practical, and incredibly versatile.
Washi tape is:
- available in pretty much every design, colour and pattern imaginable
- available in a variety of widths
- easily removed, and doesn’t leave a sticky residue behind
- reusable – it’s easy to peel and reposition
- durable but flexible, and it can be easily torn by hand
You can also write on washi tape – pencil works well, and most pens, but not every type of ink. Test your pens first to see.
How can you use washi tape in your bullet journal?
Washi tape can be utilized in your bullet journal in so many beautiful and practical ways. Take a look at these 10 gorgeous washi tape ideas for your bullet journal.
This beautiful girl with a washi tape cloak was created by @deserres
This gorgeous washi tape depicting historical buildings makes a lovely theme page. Created by @marafribus
Gorgeous spring-themed picture from @sylvainyong63
Find out more about these paperclip page markers at washitape.es/
Super-cute stickers from @washitapelovers
Watch how to create this beautiful heading @esthersletters
Gorgeous 4th of July collage from @bulletwithchristine
I love the stripey washi tape used to divide the page by @sigridspiration
Use washi tape to stick momentos into your bullet journal. This beautiful page is created by @meowpawjournals
These pretty headers and banners are created by @lunajournal_
Washi Tape Swatch Page
Once you have collected a few different types of washi tape, it makes sense to have a washi tape swatch page in your bullet journal to organize them and see your favourites at a glance.
Here are 10 gorgeously simple ideas to display your washi tape collection
Cute coffee themed washi swatches from @tinted.inks
Little notebook themed washi swatches from @theinkystory
Washi tape tags by @mybulletjournal.0
How cute are these washi tape paint rollers from @planned.with.purpose
Washi tape on clothes hangers by @theyearofpaper
Washi tape curtains by @bulletjournaldesires
Washi tape tags by @studywithmaggie
Washi tape mail by @j.lily.journals
So cute!
Aren’t they all beautiful?
Do you feel inspired to use washi tape, and to create a washi swatch page in your bullet journal?
If you don’t have a bullet journal and would like to start your own, check out my post on How to Start a Bullet Journal (A Step-by-Step Guide)
Like a little something for your bullet journal?
Subscribe to the latest news and updates from A Lovely Year and receive these free mini trackers to print and customize in your bullet journal or planner.
You can use them as calendars, or habit trackers, or anything else you like.
Want to learn more about bullet journaling?
This is the book I recommend:
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