The History of Washi Tape: From Japan to Worldwide Crafting

Washi tape has become a global favorite among crafters, journal enthusiasts, and DIY hobbyists. Known for its lightweight texture, beautiful designs, and versatility, this decorative tape has gone far beyond its humble origins. To truly appreciate washi tape, it’s worth looking back at its history — from traditional Japanese roots to becoming a must-have in creative communities worldwide.

What Is Washi?

The word “washi” comes from wa (Japanese) and shi (paper). Washi is a type of handmade paper crafted from natural fibers, most commonly the inner bark of the gampi tree, mitsumata shrub, or mulberry bush. Unlike Western paper, which is often made from wood pulp, washi is known for being:

• Thin yet strong
• Flexible and durable
• Textured with a soft, natural feel

This traditional paper has been used for centuries in Japan for calligraphy, origami, lanterns, and even sliding doors (shoji).

The Birth of Washi Tape

The story of modern washi tape begins in the early 2000s with the Japanese company Kamoi Kakoshi, a masking tape manufacturer. Originally, the company made industrial masking tapes used in painting and construction.

Around 2006, a group of artists and crafters approached Kamoi Kakoshi with an unusual request: could they create masking tape in different colors and patterns instead of plain beige? The company agreed, and the first line of decorative washi tape — branded as MT (Masking Tape) — was born. Creative washi tape adds flair to scrapbooks, planners, and DIY projects.

Rapid Growth in Japan

The colorful, patterned tapes quickly gained popularity in Japan, especially among:

• Artists and designers using them for creative projects.
• Students and journal lovers decorating notebooks and planners.
• Gift wrappers looking for eco-friendly, reusable alternatives.

The flexibility, removability, and endless design variations made washi tape stand out from traditional stickers or ribbons.

Global Expansion

By the early 2010s, washi tape had made its way into craft stores around the world. Social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram played a huge role in spreading its popularity, as users shared DIY projects, bullet journal spreads, and scrapbooking ideas.

Washi tape became especially loved in:

• Bullet journaling communities for its organization and decoration uses.
• Scrapbooking and card-making for borders, accents, and layering.
• DIY culture as an accessible and affordable creative tool.

Washi Tape Today

Today, washi tape is produced in thousands of patterns, themes, and colors. Beyond simple rolls, it also comes in pre-cut shapes, wide tapes, metallic foils, and even collaboration designs featuring popular characters or artists.

Many small businesses and independent designers have joined the movement, creating custom washi tapes for niche communities, fandoms, and aesthetics.

Why Washi Tape Remains Timeless

The appeal of washi tape lies in its blend of tradition and innovation:

• Rooted in centuries-old Japanese papermaking.
• Reinvented for modern creative expression.
• Adaptable for both practical and decorative purposes.

It continues to thrive as a global symbol of creativity, connecting people through art, journaling, and crafting.

From its origins in traditional Japanese papermaking to its transformation into a worldwide crafting sensation, washi tape has an inspiring history. What started as industrial masking tape evolved — through creativity and community — into one of the most beloved tools for artistic self-expression.