If you’ve ever stared at a blank notebook page and felt that cold sweat of "I’m not creative enough," washi tape is for you. Washi tape is magical Japanese paper tape that sticks just enough to stay put, but not enough to ruin your journal when you change your mind for the third time about that page layout. No scissors required, no glue mess, and if you hate it? Peel it off and pretend it never happened.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve been scrapbooking for years or just bought your first notebook. Washi tape is the one supply that doesn’t punish you for messing up. It solves the biggest problem in journaling: how to make a page look good without the fear of ruining it forever.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what it is, how to use it without wasting it, and how to pick the right rolls for your stash.
What Is Washi Tape?
Washi literally translates to Japanese paper. It is a form of high-quality masking tape made from hemp or bamboo, rather than standard wood pulp. Unlike the glossy, horrible plastic tape that you used for present-wrapping, Washi tape is matte and soft, and almost fabric-like to the touch.
It originally started in Japan (obviously) when a group of artists approached a masking tape company called Kamoi Kakoshi. They showed the company the amazing art they were making with industrial tapes and asked for more colors. That was the spark. Now, it’s a global obsession for anyone who loves journaling or DIY decor
The reason it exploded in the journaling community isn't just because it’s aesthetic—it’s because it’s forgiving. You can tear it by hand, write on top of it, and most importantly, peel it off and move it without ripping your page. It’s the ultimate low-commitment craft supply.
What is Washi Tape Made Of?
Real washi paper is not just printed paper; it is made from natural fibers such as Kozo (mulberry), gampi, or bamboo, which are traditionally used in Japan.
Being a plant-based product, washi has a distinct, warm feel, unlike wood pulp, which is the most common raw material. It is not only durable but also very light. Unlike regular slippery, cold stickers, washi has a matte, fibrous texture reminiscent of handmade paper. The glue specifically is low-tack. You can press it down, find it crooked, and just peel it off without tearing your page or the bothersome sticky residue.
Washi vs. PET Tape
If you see a roll that looks super shiny, it’s probably PET (plastic) tape, not washi. Here is the easiest way to tell them apart:
|
Feature |
Real Washi Tape |
Plastic (PET) Tape |
|
Feel |
Warm, soft, like fabric or paper. |
Smooth, cold, and slippery. |
|
Finish |
Matte. It melts into the page. |
Glossy. It reflects light and glares. |
|
Tearing |
Easy to rip with just your fingers. |
Impossible to rip; you need scissors. |
|
The Look |
Soft, watercolor-style print. |
Sharp, vivid, and often transparent. |
|
Best For |
Journaling, layering, and vintage vibes. |
Waterproofing and 3D sticker effects. |
Common Types of Washi Tape
Not all washi tape is the same. Here are the most common types and how they’re used.
The Metallics
Gold foil, rose gold, silver. These are the drama queens of the tape world. Warning: they’re not always truly removable, so maybe don’t use these on antique furniture.
Wide Tapes
These usually range from 30mm to 50mm wide. They aren’t tapes so much as instant backgrounds. Slap one strip across the top of your page and suddenly it looks like you planned the whole spread.
Skinny Tapes
The 3mm strips. They are perfect for underlining headers or creating fake grid lines on your page when you’re too lazy to draw them, also excellent for color-coding without the visual weight.
Die-Cut Edge Washi
Scalloped edges, postage stamp perforations, deckle edges. These save you from having to cut straight lines, which, if we’re being honest, most of us can’t do anyway.
What is Washi Tape Used For?
Honestly? Anything you want. But if you need some inspiration, here’s how most of us use it:
Journaling and Scrapbooking
This is the big one. We use it for page borders, creating dividers between different days, or even using it as a "hinge" to tape in extra notes or photos. It’s the easiest way to make a washi tape journal look like a piece of art without actually having to paint anything.
Sealing Envelopes
If you’re still sending "snail mail" (which you should, it’s the best), a strip of washi on the back of the envelope is such a class act. It makes the recipient feel like they’re opening something special. Plus, because it is removable washi tape, they can save the envelope without ripping it.
Gift Wrapping
I’ve stopped buying expensive wrapping paper and now use plain brown Kraft paper. Here is how I go about wrapping a gift: with three different washi tapes from MooBoom. The whole piece is way more luxurious and sincere than the usual grocery-store items.
Labeling
Since you can write on it, it’s perfect for labeling spice jars, cables, or school folders. And when you want to change the label? You just peel it off. No scrubbing off old glue.
How to Use Washi Tape in Journaling?
The easiest way to beat the fear of a blank page is simple: place one strip of washi tape down. Once the page is no longer “perfect,” your mind relaxes, and ideas start to flow more freely.
Background Building
Take a wide scenery tape and run it along the bottom of the page. Instantly, you have a landscape where you can write your thoughts above trees, buildings, or clouds. This works especially well when you want to frame your writing without drawing anything yourself.
Layering
This is the quiet trick that makes journal pages look intentional. Instead of using one strip, layer clear washi over a solid color and add a sticker or label on top. The slight overlap creates depth and makes the page feel thoughtfully designed rather than flat.
Visual Flow
Use patterns to guide the reader’s eye across the page. A vine or dotted design can “grow” from the corner toward your text, naturally pulling attention where you want it. This helps your journal feel connected instead of scattered.
Mood Setting
Colors can quietly reflect how you’re feeling. Yellow and green shades can suggest energy or clarity, while muted blues and browns feel calm and reflective. Over time, your journal becomes a visual record of your moods, not just your words.
How to Choose the Right Washi Tape
It’s very easy to get carried away and buy every pretty roll you see, but choosing wisely will save you money and frustration. The right washi tape should match how you actually use your journal, not just how it looks on the shelf.
Width
Always think about the size of your notebook first. Wide tapes can completely overpower small pocket journals and leave little room for writing. Thin tapes are more flexible; they work well for borders, underlining, and small accents without drawing attention away from your content.
Transparency
Some tapes blend softly into the page, while others are meant to stand out. If you enjoy layering or writing over tape, classic paper washi is ideal because it lets text show through. If you want bold designs that stay visible on dark pages, PET tape with a white ink base will give you that crisp, printed look.
Theme
Sticking to a general theme helps your journal feel more cohesive. Vintage lovers usually gravitate toward muted colors, old stamps, maps, and faded florals. If your style is more modern, clean patterns or simple color blocks will be easier to use across multiple pages.
Where Can I Find Quality Washi Tapes?
Indeed, there are places where you can surf for cheap tape, but the only way to get usable tape for your project is to be choosy. An excellent example would be MooBoom.
What makes MooBoom different? We don't just sell "rolls of tape." We sell collections. If you’re into scenery journaling, you know, the kind where you build a whole little world on your page, we have these wide washi and PET tapes that are specifically designed for layering. Our quality is consistent (no weird chemical smells or tape that snaps when you pull it), and we have over 1,000 designs. It’s basically heaven for stationery addicts.
Why Choose MooBoom?
MooBoom is made for people who actually use washi tape in their journals and projects, not just collect it.
Artist-Designed
Our designs are created by artists, not copied from trends. From vintage florals to scenery styles, each roll feels intentional and works well for full journal spreads or simple accents.
High-Quality PET Tapes
Our PET tapes are clear and bright, printed in white ink, so the designs remain visible even on dark pages. They layer smoothly over paper washi and text without looking bulky.
Worth the Price
Each roll is generously sized and consistent in quality, with no snapping, peeling, or weird smells. You get tape that lasts longer, which matters when you use it regularly.
FAQ
Is Washi tape removable without damage?
Yes, but with caveats. On paper and painted walls? Comes off clean, no marks. On cheap drywall or fabric? It might take some paint fibers with it after long-term application. Always test a corner first if you’re nervous.
Is Washi tape waterproof?
Nope. It’s paper. Spill coffee on it, and it’ll stain (which can actually look cool and vintage, but yeah, it’s ruined). If you want a waterproof tape, the PET plastic tape is a better option.
Is Washi tape sticky?
Enough, but not too much. It won’t hold up a poster on concrete, but it’ll keep your journal photos in place. If it’s too sticky for delicate paper, you can "de-stick" it by pressing it against your jeans first (yes, really), then applying.
Is Washi tape double-sided?
No, unless you buy specialty double-sided rolls (rare). One side’s pretty, one side’s sticky. Simple as that. Most people prefer it this way because it keeps designs clean and easy to control. If you need extra hold, you can always layer washi tape over glue or double-sided tape without ruining the look.
Can Washi tape be reused or recycled?
Surely, paper-based items are recyclable, but keep in mind that many recycling centers are reluctant to accept adhesive items. What about reusing it? You can adjust the position only once or twice while it is wet, but after it has been left for a certain period, the adhesive dries.
Does Washi tape come off easily?
From most surfaces, such as laptops, walls, journals, yes. From unfinished wood, fleece blankets, or hair? It’s a nightmare. Keep it away from pets and small children with sticky fingers.
What surfaces does Washi tape stick to best?
Washi tape is made of paper (of course), glass, enclosed wood, wooden shiplap, plastic phone casings, and metal laptops. Dusty surfaces are the kind of surfaces it absolutely loathes, as are silicone surfaces (e.g., the trendy silicone water bottles) and anything that is oily.
Can you write on Washi tape?
Absolutely—ballpoint and gel pens work great. Sharpies work but they may bleed through thinner tapes. Fountain pens are risky and often feather. And avoid writing on metallic or foil washi unless you’re using a permanent marker.
Conclusion
Washi tape makes creativity feel safe. It lets you decorate, experiment, and change your mind without worrying about ruining a page. One small strip is often enough to get started, and from there, everything feels easier.
You don’t need skills or a plan, just the tape you enjoy using. Tear it, move it, layer it, or remove it completely. That freedom is what makes washi tape so loved. Pick a few designs from Mooboom that match your style and let the page grow naturally. Sometimes, that’s all creativity needs.
