If you’re looking for a way to inject life into your planners and projects, give Washi tape a try. Wondering which are the best washi tape brands, which ones are worth the hype, and how to pick the right one? You’re in luck!
In this guide, I’m diving into the nitty-gritty of the best washi tape brands – the ones that won’t let you down when it comes to quality, durability, and adding that touch of personality to your planners. So, let’s get started!
Best Washi tape brands
| MT Washi Tape |
| Authentic Japanese origin. |
| Scotch Expressions Washi Tape |
| Trusted brand: Scotch is a well-known and reliable tape brand. |
| Shinzi Katoh Washi Tape |
| Cute Shinzi Katoh designs. |
| Mark’s Masté Washi Tape |
| Eco-friendly with Japanese rice paper. |
| Erin Condren Washi Tape Rolls |
| Stylish and customizable. |
MT Washi Tape — Best authentic Japanese washi tape
The Pinnacle of Authenticity
If you’re looking for the real deal in Japanese washi tape, MT Washi Tape is where it’s at.
I mean, it’s the OG tape, straight from Kamoi Kakoshi, a company that’s been at it for over a century!
So this stuff is as authentic as it gets.
It’s the gold standard against which all other brands are measured.
High Quality & Diverse Designs
It’s a very high-quality line of tape.
MT Washi Tape doesn’t just meet the mark; it goes above and beyond.
It’s super sturdy, so whatever you create with it will stand the test of time.
And it comes in many different designs.
From elegant solid colors to patterns that are just too cute, they’ve got something for every creative soul.
Versatile and User-Friendly
This tape is like the multitool of the craft world.
Whether you’re spicing up your bullet journal, getting organized with planners, or cherishing memories in scrapbooks, this tape has your back.
It’s a breeze to use – easy to tear by hand, stick, reposition, and remove without messing up your paper.
If you’re into color coding, the multi-color set is like a dream come true.
Plus, it’s writable, which is a nifty bonus.
The Water-Resistant Wonder
Here’s the cool part: it’s water-resistant.
You can decorate your walls or kitchen tiles with it.
And if things get messy, just a quick wipe with a damp cloth does the trick.
It’s also pretty handy for masking watercolors and it won’t mess up your delicate paper.
Translucent Magic
Because it’s made from washi paper, it has this charming translucence.
And if you layer about seven pieces on top of each other, it becomes completely opaque.
This makes it perfect for layering and experimenting with different effects.
Pros:
- Authentic Japanese origin.
- High quality and durability.
- Diverse designs.
- User-friendly and versatile.
- Water-resistant.
- Translucent for creative layering.
Cons:
- Translucent nature may require layering for full opacity.
Scotch Expressions Washi Tape — Best variety of tape sets
A Classic Choice
If you’ve ever heard the word “tape,” you’ve probably thought of Scotch.
It’s a legendary brand that’s synonymous with adhesive tapes.
So Scotch Expressions Washi Tape comes from a super-reputable manufacturer.
And what I love about it most of all is its amazing variety of sets and designs.
A Rainbow of Creativity
This Scotch Expressions sets packs eight rolls of washi tape, each donning a unique color, pattern, and width.
It’s a mini-treasure trove for those who crave diversity in their crafting.
Whether it’s jazzing up a bullet journal, adding pizzazz to planners, or elevating the charm of your scrapbooking projects, this tape set has you covered.
The Slight Glossy Twist
One thing to note is that Scotch Expressions has a slightly glossy surface.
While it’s indeed writable, it’s a tad trickier to jot down notes compared to the more matte MT washi tape.
But that little gloss does lend a subtle sheen to your creations, adding a touch of sophistication.
Ease of Use and Versatility
Tearing by hand? No sweat.
Applying the tape to various surfaces? Piece of cake.
Scotch Expressions takes versatility seriously.
It adheres with ease and removes without causing any paper casualties.
What’s more, it’s one of those rare brands that play nicely with delicate watercolor paper, where others often falter.
Infinite Choices for Your Creative Soul
But here’s where Scotch truly shines — its extensive range of colors and patterns.
With over 200 options, you’ll find designs, roll sizes, and widths to match every project’s needs.
Gold and glitter finishes are perfect for gift wrapping or home decor.
Scotch truly knows how to cater to your creative cravings.
Pros:
- Trusted brand: Scotch is a well-known and reliable tape brand.
- Variety: 8 rolls with different colors and patterns.
- Comparable quality to MT tape.
- Writable, though slightly glossy.
- Easy hand tearing.
- Versatile and safe on delicate paper.
- Vast selection with over 200 choices.
Cons:
- Slight glossiness can make writing a bit harder.
Shinzi Katoh Washi Tape — Best cute Japanese zakka designs
A Burst of Cuteness
Shinzi Katoh brings a delightful dose of Japanese “zakka” charm to the table.
These tapes are like little pieces of art you can carry around in your stationery stash.
So they’ve earned a special place in the hearts of creatives worldwide.
Zakka Magic Unleashed
Shinzi Katoh is the mastermind behind these tapes.
He’s a Japanese artist and picture book author with a knack for those “zakka” aesthetic designs.
Zakka is a Japanese design style that’s all about simplicity, practicality, and undeniable cuteness.
Imagine everyday items with an attractive twist – that’s the essence of zakka.
These designs often draw inspiration from Scandinavian and French influences, and they’re usually both affordable and accessible.
Shinzi Katoh has made a name for himself in this realm.
His creations span fabrics, homeware goods, stationery, and accessories.
A Roll of Endless Creativity
Now, let’s talk about the tape itself.
Each roll measures 15mm x 10m and is a canvas for Shinzi Katoh’s adorable creations.
You can snag these rolls separately.
And believe me, it’s tempting to collect them all.
These tapes are versatile in their application, letting you infuse your projects with that unmistakable zakka charm.
They’re made from Japanese washi paper.
This makes them writable, easy to tear by hand, and a breeze to stick to paper.
Plus, if you ever need to reposition or remove them, no worries – they’ve got your back.
These tapes are a must-have for anyone who appreciates the charm of practical cuteness.
A Blend of Japanese and Taiwanese Craftsmanship
One interesting tidbit is that these tapes are designed in Japan but manufactured in Taiwan.
It’s a place known for its quality stationery production.
This combination of Japanese design aesthetics and Taiwanese craftsmanship results in a product that’s not just cute but also top-notch in quality.
Pros:
- Cute Shinzi Katoh designs.
- Versatile and easy to use.
- High-quality Japanese washi paper.
- Blends Japanese and Taiwanese craftsmanship.
- Sold individually for design variety.
Cons:
- May require multiple purchases for variety.
Mark’s Masté Washi Tape — Another original Japanese Washi tape
Eco-Friendly Elegance
Mark’s Masté Washi Tape is another authentic tape from Japan and it’s all about the art of elegance mixed with practicality.
Japanese Rice Paper Eco-Wonder
It’s crafted from Japanese rice paper.
This not only makes it eco-friendly but also gives it an exceptional quality.
It’s the kind of tape you can feel good about using for your creative projects.
Tear It, Stick It, Love It
One of the standout features of Mark’s Masté Washi Tape is how effortlessly it tears by hand.
This convenience means no need for scissors or special cutters, making it a breeze to use.
The satin finish and slight translucency add an elegant touch to your creations.
And when it’s time to remove the tape, it leaves no pesky residue behind.
A Spectrum of Vibrance
This tape isn’t just practical.
It’s also a feast for the eyes.
With a variety of bright and vibrant colors alongside cute designs, it’s a dream come true for scrapbookers, journal enthusiasts, and anyone diving into arts and crafts projects.
Write, Stick, Repeat
What truly delights me is the tape’s writability.
You can effortlessly jot down notes, labels, or even elaborate designs with ballpoint pens, permanent markers, or good old pencils.
It’s a nice canvas for your thoughts in a planner or bullet journal.
Acid-Free Assurance
And here’s a neat touch for the preservationists out there.
Mark’s Masté Washi Tape is acid-free.
So your projects will remain in pristine condition over time.
A Touch of Luxury in Compact Rolls
The small palm-sized rolls will add a touch of luxury to your collection.
They can also make a nice thoughtful gift for fellow stationery enthusiasts.
Imported
However, it’s worth noting that this tape is also imported.
While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the quality and charm it brings to your projects make it worthwhile for your collection.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly with Japanese rice paper.
- Easy to tear, sticks well, no residue.
- Vibrant colors and cute designs.
- Writable with different pens.
- Acid-free for long-lasting projects.
- Compact rolls, great for gifting.
Cons:
- Imported, not easy to find.
Erin Condren Washi Tape Rolls — Most stylish sets
Personalize your Erin Condren Planners
Erin Condren Washi Tape, an enchanting creation from the illustrious Erin Condren planner manufacturer, elevates the world of planners and journals.
It’s like a brush of artistic magic that lets you express your unique style and stay organized at the same time.
A Stylish Planner Companion
Designed to be a perfect companion for Erin Condren planners, this washi tape doesn’t just play along.
It takes your planning and journaling game to a whole new level.
A Splash of Personalization
The customization options are where this tape shines.
With a variety of colors and patterns, it’s a dream come true for those who love personalizing their planners and journals.
Whether it’s color-coding your daily routines, matching weekly planner schemes, or adding that extra touch to your journal, this tape delivers.
Fun and Functionality
While staying organized is its primary function, Erin Condren’s washi tape doesn’t forget the fun factor.
It transforms the often mundane world of planning and journaling into an enjoyable, creative process.
Your pages will pop with life, making your planning sessions more exciting.
High Quality and Ease of Use
You won’t be disappointed by the quality.
The tape adheres well, making sure your creative touch lasts.
At the same time, it’s not a stickler.
You can easily remove it without leaving a trail.
And no scissors are required, you can tear it by hand.
Sets That Define Style
The tape comes in beautifully coordinated sets, with each set consisting of four rolls.
These sets are more than just tape.
They’re a fashion statement for your planners, calendars, and more.
Each roll stretches to an impressive 16 feet, giving you a total of 64 feet of decorating potential.
The Glossy Trade-Off
On the flip side, this tape doesn’t play as nice with pens as traditional Japanese washi tapes do.
The glossy finish, while adding a touch of elegance, can make writing a bit of a challenge.
A Slightly Soft Palette
Another thing to note is this tape’s translucency.
The colors might appear less vibrant and a touch more pastel than what the photos suggest.
Pros:
- Stylish and customizable.
- Enhances organization and personalization.
- High-quality and easy to use.
- Coordinated sets for a stylish look.
- Adds a fun element to planning.
Cons:
- The glossy finish can make writing a bit challenging.
- Colors may appear more pastel than expected in photos.
What is Washi tape?
Washi tape is a decorative adhesive tape made from traditional Japanese rice paper.
It’s highly sought after by crafters and artists.
This is because it has some unique characteristics.
It can stick to various surfaces.
And you can easily remove it from any material, including paper.
Washi tape will come off without leaving any residue or damaging the surface.
This makes this tape ideal for adding borders or accents to scrapbooks, journals, and other paper crafts.
It’s also easy to tear by hand and you can write on it.
Washi’s cute patterns and vibrant colors make it great for any creative project — from gift wrapping to home decor.
Washi tape is now super-popular in the planner and bullet journal community.
Best washi tape buying guide
If you’re in the market for some washi tape, here are a few things to keep in mind:
First off, look for tapes that are made with natural fibers like rice paper, etc.
This paper is what gives Washi its ability to be torn by hand. Plus, it’s a great surface to write on.
Next, check out the quality of the adhesive.
You want it to stick well, but also be easy to reposition and remove with no trace or damage.
The texture and thickness of the tape must make it easy to cut and tear without fraying.
And of course, pick a design, color, and pattern that matches your style!
Plus, consider the size of the tape.
You want it to be the right width and length for your needs.
Here is the breakdown of these and other factors in more detail:
1. Material
If you’re looking to buy washi tape, it’s important to consider the material it’s made from.
The best washi tape is usually made from traditional Japanese paper, called “washi.”
This paper is made from rice or mulberry fibers, or tree bark like gampi and mitsumata.
It’s durable but still lightweight.
Plus, it has a unique texture that’s perfect for crafting and decorating.
2. Adhesive
In addition to that, consider the adhesive of your tape.
One of the cool things about washi tape is its low-tack adhesive.
It makes it super easy to remove and reposition the tape with no damage.
So, make sure to opt for a tape that has a non-toxic adhesive that sticks well to different surfaces but is also easy to remove and doesn’t leave any residue behind.
3. Authenticity
Some tapes labeled as “washi” may be made from synthetic materials like polyester or vinyl.
They are usually smooth and glossy and have a higher-tack adhesive.
While they might be more budget-friendly and water-resistant, they might not have the same durability and quality as genuine washi tape.
Synthetic tapes aren’t easy to write on or tear by hand, and they can leave a sticky residue when removed.
That’s why it’s important to choose a trusted brand that uses high-quality materials when you’re looking for washi tape.
4. Acid-free
If you want to keep your artwork, scrapbooks, and important documents in tip-top shape for years to come, then choosing acid-free washi tape is a must.
This type of tape is made from natural pH-neutral materials that won’t deteriorate or yellow over time, unlike regular adhesive tapes.
Plus, it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals that can damage your cherished photos or other items.
Acid-free washi tape is perfect for keeping your designs in great condition for the long haul because it doesn’t leave any stains.
5. Width
Washi tape is available in a wide range of widths.
The standard widths of this tape range from 10 to 32 mm, with 15 mm being the most popular one.
This size is perfect for adding accents and embellishments to cards, scrapbook pages, and other paper crafts.
It’s also a great width for sealing envelopes or decorating gift wraps.
In addition to the standard sizes, there are also smaller and larger options that can be used for all kinds of crafting and decorating projects.
The smallest washi tape I’ve seen available measures just 5 mm.
These tiny tapes can be used for adding subtle accents and trims to your projects.
They’re great for creating delicate borders or highlighting specific areas of your designs.
On the other end of the spectrum, there are wider washi tape sizes that range from 50-75 mm tapes to massive 300 mm ones.
These wider tapes are perfect for covering notebook covers, creating wall designs, or making cards.
6. Length and roll size
You can find washi tape rolls ranging from 1m all the way up to 100m in length.
But, the most common and popular length is 10m.
This is a perfect size for most crafting projects.
It’s not too short but at the same time not too long to leave you with too much leftover tape.
7. Quantities and sets
You can purchase washi tape in single rolls or sets, ranging from small packs of just a few pieces to large assortments of 100 rolls!
If you’re just starting out, a small number of washi tapes is the perfect way to begin your journey.
You can choose a set of 3, 5, or 10 rolls to experiment with and see which ones you like best.
Then, as you become more familiar with the product, you can start building a larger collection of your favorite patterns and colors.
For those who are serious about their washi tape crafting, a set of 50 or 100 rolls is a great option.
This will give you a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from.
So you’ll be able to unleash your creativity and make countless projects.
If you’re still not sure which washi tape sets to buy, consider purchasing a sampler pack.
These packs usually come with a variety of different designs and colors.
Then you can try out multiple rolls before committing to a larger set.
8. Designs, colors, and patterns
My favorite factors to consider when buying washi tape are its design, color, finish, and pattern.
There are so many options out there!
Think about the colors and patterns used in your project and pick a design that will work well with that.
It can also be helpful to stay up to date on the latest trends since new options are always popping up.
Washi tape project ideas
Washi tape can add a fun and colorful touch to any craft project.
Here are some fun ideas to get you started with using washi tape:
- Decorating notebooks, journals, and planners.
- Adding a colorful border to picture frames or mirrors.
- Creating unique greeting cards and invitations.
- Making custom bookmarks.
- Personalizing phone cases, laptops, and other electronic devices.
- Adding a pop of color to flower pots or vases.
- Designing unique gift wrapping paper or gift tags.
- Making wall art by creating geometric shapes or patterns.
- Creating custom party decorations such as banners or cupcake toppers.
These are just a few examples of the many creative and cool projects that can be made with washi tape.
What is so special about Washi tape?
People love washi tape because of its unique texture, intricate patterns, and vivid colors.
It’s perfect for adding a personal touch to your creative projects like journals, scrapbooks, or cards.
The best part is that it’s super easy to use!
You can tear it by hand, reposition it without leaving any residue, and layer it to create your custom designs.
Plus, it’s durable, water-resistant, and can be used on a variety of surfaces.
Is all washi tape the same?
Actually, no!
There can be big differences in quality depending on the brand, materials used, and its manufacturing process.
Some washi tapes are made from natural fibers and have a soft and flexible feel and a matte finish.
While others are synthetic “washi” and have a shiny, rigid appearance.
So if you want your projects to turn out great, it’s important to buy from reliable brands that offer high-quality washi tape.
Best washi tape for watercolor painting
If you’re into watercolor painting, it’s super-important to use the right tape to avoid any paint mishaps.
Although washi tape is pretty popular in crafting, it’s not the best option for watercolor.
This is because paint can sometimes seep through it.
However, you can use artist tape instead, which is made specifically to block paint from bleeding through.
Plus, it comes in different widths, so you can pick the perfect size for your project.
With artist tape, you can easily create clean and precise edges in your watercolor painting without any unwanted smudges or stains.
Does Washi tape stick permanently?
Washi tape is a super cool crafting tool, but it’s not meant to stick permanently.
Instead, it has a gentle adhesive that makes it easy to remove without any damage.
Although this tape can stick around for quite a while, it’s not ideal for very long-term use or for surfaces that are exposed to a lot of moisture or extreme temperatures.
Is washi tape better than masking tape?
They have a different purpose.
Washi is a decorative tape with lots of fun designs and colors. But it can’t protect parts of your project surface from paint.
And masking tape is plain and strong. It can handle heavy-duty tasks like painting.
What’s the difference between washi tape and scotch tape?
Washi tape and scotch tape are both adhesive tapes that are used for different things.
Washi is made from natural fibers, which give it a unique texture and appearance.
It’s super easy to tear by hand and can be repositioned without leaving any residue.
Plus, it’s decorative.
And Scotch tape is made from synthetic materials like cellulose acetate or polypropylene.
This makes it more durable and stickier than Washi tape, but you won’t be able to detach it from the roll without scissors or a knife. And it’s not repositionable.
It’s not decorative but great for sealing packages, for example.
As I’ve already mentioned, Scotch makes its own line of washi under the name Scotch Expressions.
How do you clean surfaces with washi tape?
Avoid soaking your item decorated with washi tape in water or exposing it to too much moisture.
Luckily, high-quality washi tape like MT is pretty water-resistant!
So you can even use it in places like your bathroom or kitchen, where there’s quite a bit of moisture.
If you need to clean the spaces with the tape, no problem.
Just wipe them down with a damp cloth while you’re doing your cleaning routine.
Will Washi tape ruin photos?
Washi tape is super-popular for scrapbooking and for sticking photos to the wall.
Some people worry that it might damage their photos over time.
But the good news is that high-quality, authentic, and acid-free washi tape is really safe.
This kind of washi has a gentle adhesive that won’t ruin delicate surfaces. It works well on glossy photos.
And its acid-free material won’t cause any discoloration or stains over time.
Does Washi tape go bad?
Washi tape can last for a long time.
But, if it’s not stored properly, extreme heat or humidity can cause the adhesive to degrade and the tape may not stick as well.
To make your tape last, it’s best to keep it in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
This will help preserve its quality and effectiveness for years to come.
What are the best tips for using washi tape?
Here are a few tips to keep in mind to make the most of this fun and colorful material:
- Always make sure to clean the surface before applying the tape to ensure optimal adhesion.
- Experiment with different patterns and colors to create unique designs.
- You can also layer the tape to create a unique effect.
- To make your designs look clean and polished, use sharp scissors or a craft knife to cut the tape cleanly, and also use a ruler or masking tape to create straight lines.
- But don’t be afraid to tear it by hand to create a more natural and organic look.
Final thoughts
And that wraps up my review of the best washi tape brands!
Whether you’re a crafting enthusiast or just looking to add some flair to your planner or journal, these top brands have got you covered.
From the vibrant colors and patterns to the high-quality adhesive, this buying guide has highlighted the key features to consider before making your purchase.
Now go forth and get creative with your washi tape projects!
