Rather than dramatically expanding my collection of pens and pencils, I’ve spent time during the past year exploring new types of stationery and desk accessories I had previously ignored. One such product is washi tape - the decorative Japanese masking tape that’s exploded in popularity in recent years. Though I admired all the colorful options and clever patterns, I didn’t see how I could justify purchasing washi tape for my own use. When I started carrying washi tape in the shop earlier this year, I pulled a few rolls out of inventory and was shocked at how much I ended up going through. If you’re someone who has been on the fence, wanting to dip a toe in the expansive pool of tens of thousands of different tapes available, here are five of my favorite things to do with washi tape:
I’ve started flagging pages in my notebooks and journals with folded over pieces of washi tape.
Page Markers. A reader tipped me off to this one back in the spring. If you’re not overly concerned about being able to move the bookmark at a later date, a small piece of washi tape folded over the edge of a page can serve the same purpose as a Book Dart. (Of course, tape is not archivally safe and will technically “damage” your page, so I’d recommend this technique only for your own personal journals or books from your own library.)
Sealing Letters. One of the benefits of the T.G.S. Patreon Program is that I send a handwritten thank-you letter to all supporters. (In fact, the latest batch is getting ready to go in the mail, so if you haven’t received yours yet, I haven’t forgotten about you!) Sometimes I will break out the delightfully old-school sealing wax to ensure the envelopes stay closed, but washi tape can serve the same purpose. I’m also trying to track down some holiday-themed tape to incorporate into my family’s holiday cards.
Journaling and Commonplacing. Maybe “scrapbooking” is the better term, but because I tend to save everything, I have boxes, folders, envelopes - you name it - with all sorts of memorabilia and souvenirs tucked away. I’ve done better in terms of just letting some of this go, but I’ve also started to organize things into my journal and commonplace book. I dislike glue, so I mainly use washi tape to stick things like ticket stubs, small photos, post-its, and clipped periodicals into my journals and notebooks. Ultra-thin washi tape doesn’t add bulk to the page.
Gift Wrap and Packaging. With the holidays approaching, you can do better than standard cellophane tape! As with letters, washi tape can add personality to your gift wrapping while still performing a useful purpose. Those of you who have ordered from the store may notice some washi tape “samples” on your envelopes or interior packaging.
Well…Just Tape. Washi tape may be thin and easy to tear with your hands (no scissors required!) but it’s not flimsy. It’s durable and holds up surprisingly well to pretty much any task where you would reach for standard masking or cellophane tape. And it’s definitely a lot more fun. I’m currently searching for the perfect small tape dispenser that I can use to keep a roll or two loaded and ready to go on my desk.
The selection of washi tape currently in stock from iLootPaperie. Taco Tuesday, anyone?
Whether they like it or not, my family is going to be receiving a lot of washi tape in their stockings this Christmas. If you’re looking for a charming, inexpensive gift, or simply want to add some personality to your day-to-day office supplies, consider giving washi tape a try. The T.G.S. Curated Shop stocks a selection of unique tapes that I’ve personally chosen, priced anywhere from $2-6 per roll. I’m constantly searching for new patterns, so keep checking back for additions.
The T.G.S. Curated Shop is an authorized retailer of all brands that it carries. For in-depth discussion of our curated retail selections, including more gift ideas, check out our 2020 Holiday Gift Guide.