Named after a type of paper made in Japan, Washi tape is a high-quality masking tape made out of natural plant fibres (think hemp, bamboo and native tree bark, such as mulberry, the mitsumata shrub and gampi).
And while it used to be available only from international sellers via sites such as Etsy, it’s now on-shelf everywhere, from Woolworths to CNA. There’s also a number of popular, local sites selling Washi tape, such as cottoncandi.co.za, home-dzine.co.za and scrapbook-direct.co.za. So if you’ve been wondering what makes this Japanese masking tape so special and how to use it, read on.
First up, Washi is low-tack adhesive, which means it is easy to use and reuse. Sure, it’s great for present-wrapping or scrapbooking and making cards, but it’s also perfect if you want to temporarily stick something (such as a child’s artwork) to the wall, as it won’t damage the surface.
But there’s more to Washi than gifting – DIY enthusiasts are using Washi for all sorts of home decor tips and tricks. Because it’s available in so many different designs, widths and finishes, it has fast become a crafting favourite.
Washi is also durable, biodegradable and made out of highly renewable resources.
Get organised
Getting started with Washi is as simple as organising your household items. Want to colour-code your computer cables to remember what belongs to what? Wrap them in Washi tape.
The same goes for personalising headphone or smartphone cables – you’ll immediately know which iPhone charger is yours, if you’d added some Washi. Still worried you’ll forget? Grab a permanent marker and write what you need to over the tape; it makes for an ideal labelling surface.
With Consol jars or old glass bottles, add a few strips of Washi and you’ll be able to turn any vase into a beautiful, customised object. What’s more, if you’re having a themed dinner party, for example, you can redecorate in an instant.
Washi is also the perfect width for wrapping around simple tea lights, and is a great way to liven up clay pots, drawers and smaller household surfaces – although this might take a while if you’re using tape with a smaller width. We’ve even seen Washi used to colour blinds, computer keyboards, the inside of lamp shades and wooden spoon handles!
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