Washi Tape for Cardmaking: 5 Fresh Ways to Use It

Quick answer

For fresh card designs, use washi tape as borders, frames, backgrounds, accents, and vellum overlays. These five techniques work with any washi, including rose gold and holographic rolls.

5 fresh ways to use washi tape on cards

1. Create a border: Place a strip of washi tape along the edge of your card front, about 1/4 inch from the edge. Press down firmly and trim any excess with scissors. For a cleaner look, use a craft knife and cutting mat. Check that the tape is straight before pressing; once it's down, it's harder to adjust.
2. Make a photo frame: Apply washi tape around the perimeter of a photo or focal image, overlapping corners slightly. Use a bone folder to smooth wrinkles and ensure adhesion. Use a ruler to keep the tape parallel to the photo edges for a professional finish.
3. Layer as a background: Cover a card panel with parallel strips of washi, slightly overlapping each other. Trim the edges to fit, then adhere the panel to your card base. This creates a patterned background without patterned paper. Mix widths and colors for visual interest, but keep the palette cohesive to avoid a busy look.
4. Add a subtle accent: Cut small pieces of washi tape into shapes like hearts, stars, or flags, and place them near your sentiment or as a corner accent. Use a punch or scissors for precise shapes. Test the tape on scrap paper first to see how it cuts and whether it tears easily.
5. Use vellum washi as an overlay: Peel a strip of vellum washi and place it over a stamped image or colored panel. Because it's translucent, it will soften the design while adding a delicate sheen. Use it to create a window effect by placing it over a die-cut opening. Press gently to avoid trapping air bubbles; if bubbles appear, lift and reapply slowly.

Product facts

• Crafters Companion Vellum Washi Rolls - Rose Gold Sentiments: The Vellum Washi Rolls – Rose Gold Sentiments pack includes three peel-and-stick rolls with two sentiments per roll. The pre-printed sentiments save you time and ensure crisp lettering, making it easy to add a message without stamping or die-cutting.

  

• Crafters Companion Washi Rolls - Holographic: The Holographic Washi Rolls come in five coloured rolls, allowing you to match different themes. Having multiple colours in one pack means you can experiment with contrast and coordinate with your card base without buying separate rolls.