Fresh Ways to Use Washi Tape

May 15, 2012 at 10:49 am
by Suzonne Stirling

The washi tape trend isn’t going anywhere. If anything, it continues to grow as American companies bring their own versions of decorative tape to the marketplace. Once a specialty craft item, decorative tapes can now be found at stores like Target and Michaels, making it more accessible than ever. And with an ever expanding array of patterns and colors, there’s a tape for everyone. It layers easily, it’s repositionable, it works on just about every surface, and it can be manipulated into ruffles or bows.  More importantly, it’s just fun.

Need more convincing? Here are some fresh ways to incorporate decorative washi tape into your crafts and home decor:

 


Because it’s semi-sheer, washi tape lends itself to layering, creating unexpected patterns like the plaids shown on these bottles. The Crafted Sparrow

 

 


Casual entertaining doesn’t have to be boring. Decorate disposable utensils with washi tape accents for a colorful, but simple-to-do table display. All Washi Tape

 

 


Fold a piece of washi tape in half lengthwise and it becomes a ribbon that you can tie in a knot or a bow. BHG.com

 

 


Use washi tape and a circle punch to create wall decor. X4duros.com

 

 


Layered tapes produce a soft, pretty effect for an album cover. (Carla Jimison)

 

 


Washi tape is great on ceramics. Trim the ends for a different effect. (How About Orange)

 

 


Spend a lot of time at your computer? Why not make it a cheerful affair? (Her New Leaf)

 

 


Washi tape and floral wire produce custom twist ties that can be used for everything from corralling long cords to gift packaging. The Crafty Polka Dot

 

 


Decorate the exterior of lampshades with this versatile tape. Craft Critique

 

 


Combine washi tape with a rubber band and you get a wonderful ruffled effect. Hambly Screen Prints

 

 


Looking for a subtle upgrade to a plain lampshade? Line the inside of the shade with decorative tape. Teal and Lime

 

Suzonne Stirling is a professional crafter, wife and mom based in New Orleans. She regularly writes about crafts for FamilyCircle.com, and blogs at Urban Comfort, as well as here on Momster.com.


 

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