Sarah's photo grid in this layout is defined by lines of Washi tape. its a really easy and low risk way to add lines and borders to a page.
Read on for more about this amazingly versatile material, courtesy of Japan (home of the best papercrafters in the world!)
What Is Washi Tape?
Washi tape is a decorative adhesive tape that originates from Japan. It's made from natural fibres, which gives it a unique texture and appearance. A big attraction for crafters is that its very cost effective, costing as little as a £1 per roll.
It comes in a vast range of patterns, colours, and sizes, making it a versatile and customisable tool for scrapbooking. It's different from regular sticky tape, as it's easy to tear by hand, repositionable, and leaves little to no residue.
Origins
Washi tape has a rich history rooted in Japanese culture. Its origins can be traced back to the Edo period (1603-1868) when traditional Japanese papermaking techniques gave birth to what we now know as "washi" paper.
The term "washi" translates to "Japanese paper," and it's made from the inner barks of various plants, like the mulberry tree, bamboo or hemp. This paper was initially used for traditional purposes such as calligraphy and bookbinding.
However, in the modern era, washi paper found its way into the creative world of crafting. Washi tape, an adhesive tape made from these beautiful papers, emerged as a creative tool in the early 2000s. Its popularity quickly spread worldwide due to its versatility, beautiful designs, and ease of use.
Today, washi tape has become a beloved and indispensable item for artists, crafters, and scrapbookers everywhere, celebrating both Japanese heritage and the boundless possibilities of creativity.
Let’s look at the basics you need to know about washi tape and how to use it to enhance your scrapbooking projects.
Selecting Your Washi Tape
The first step is to choose the washi tape that suits your project. Washi tape comes in a wide range of designs, from simple solid colours to intricate patterns and themes like florals, animals, and holidays.
Many of the Memories and Photos Scrapbox kits come with coordinating washi tape for you to experiment with.
Working with Washi Tape. Start with a clean surface Ensure that the area where you plan to apply the tape is free from dust or oils to ensure good adhesion.
Experiment. Don't be afraid to try new things with your washi tape. Experiment with different arrangements and designs until you find what works best for your scrapbook.
Store it properly. To keep your washi tape collection in good condition, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Finishing off. Use a bone folder or similar tool to smooth out the tape and remove any air bubbles for a clean, polished look.
Mix and match. Combine washi tape with other scrapbooking techniques and materials like stickers, stamps, and embellishments to create unique and personalised pages.
Washi tape is a fantastic addition to your scrapbooking toolkit, offering endless possibilities for creativity. Whether you're a seasoned scrapbooker or just starting out, this versatile and decorative tape can add charm and style to your projects.