Romantic Cherry Blossom Washi Tape Art

WE SUPPORT AN AMAZING CAUSE

1) It’s Japanese
The word washi translates to Japanese (wa) paper (shi) — it literally means Japanese paper tape. Before it became the pretty patterned tape we now know and love, washi was simply known as a durable Japanese paper made from the strong natural fibers of native Japanese trees and plants. When the paper is screenprinted with traditional Japanese designs (see below), it becomes a beautiful fine paper with multiple uses. The undecorated paper was also turned into masking tape for industrial use long ago because of its durability and toughness.

2) Washi tape was born in 2006
While washi has been around for over a thousand years as paper and industrial masking tape, it wasn’t until 2006 that it became the artistic tape we know today. It was then that a group of women from Tokyo contacted the industrial masking tape company, Kamoi Kakoshi, with a beautiful book using their tapes in new artistic ways.

Suddenly the tape became more than just a tool — it was now an art form. The women were invited to the factory and their visit inspired the production of a new category of colorful tapes to be used specifically for arts and crafts. They called the line “mt” for masking tape and it wasn’t long before it became extremely popular with Japanese school children, interior designers and artists.

3) You can tear it and reposition it
So what is washi tape known for? Its usability! Because the thin paper tape is made from flexible plant fibers, it can be torn and easily applied to a variety of surfaces. The low tack adhesive on washi tape allows for it to be easily repositioned and it leaves no sticky residue when removed. This makes it an ideal material for temporary home or office decor because it can be applied to most walls and objects without damaging surfaces when removed. However, it’s always a good idea to test a small piece first just to be sure.

4) You can write on it
Since it’s made of paper, you can easily write on washi tape! Use it to create removable labels, notes, or tags on gifts. Always test the pen or marker first, but most permanent inks work great. Small stamps and permanent ink pads can also be used to create custom washi tape.