How To Make Your Own Kawaii Washi Tape At Home With Scrapbook Paper

Washi tape has become a staple in bullet journals, scrapbooks, gift wrapping, and planner decoration thanks to its gentle adhesive, reusability, and endless designs. But instead of buying expensive rolls with limited patterns, you can create your own custom kawaii washi tape using materials you likely already have. By repurposing colorful scrapbook paper, you gain full creative control over colors, themes, and motifs—perfect for seasonal decorations, personalized gifts, or matching your aesthetic down to the last detail.

Making washi tape at home is not only cost-effective but also sustainable. Instead of contributing to plastic waste from commercial tapes, you can craft reusable, eco-conscious alternatives that reflect your personality. With just a few basic supplies and some patience, you’ll be layering cute characters, pastel florals, or retro patterns onto functional tape in no time.

Why Make Your Own Kawaii Washi Tape?

Store-bought washi tape often comes in generic patterns that may not match your project’s theme. Limited availability, high prices, and inconsistent quality further justify the DIY approach. When you make your own, every roll becomes a unique expression of your style. Whether you're crafting for yourself or creating handmade gifts, homemade washi tape adds a personal touch that store-bought versions rarely achieve.

Beyond creativity, this project promotes resourcefulness. Many crafters accumulate scrapbook paper offcuts from other projects. Rather than discarding these remnants, transform them into vibrant tape. This practice aligns with slow crafting principles—valuing intentionality, sustainability, and hands-on creation over mass-produced goods.

Tip: Use double-sided tape as the base for stronger adhesion, especially if you plan to use your washi tape on textured surfaces.

Materials You’ll Need

Creating DIY washi tape requires minimal tools, most of which are common in craft rooms. Here’s what to gather before beginning:

• Scrapbook paper – Choose kawaii-themed or patterned sheets with bold prints. Pastels, stars, animals, or food motifs work well.
• Double-sided tape or clear adhesive tape – Use wide rolls (at least 1 inch) for efficiency. Low-tack options prevent paper tearing.
• Scissors or a precision craft knife – For clean cuts. A rotary cutter and ruler improve accuracy.
• Clear packing tape or laminating film (optional) – Adds durability and water resistance.
• Acrylic sealer spray (optional) – Protects ink from smudging, especially on printed paper.
• Pencil and ruler – For measuring consistent widths.
• Cardboard tubes or wooden dowels – To wind finished tape for storage.

The key is selecting cohesive color schemes and patterns that complement your intended use. For example, soft pinks and cloud motifs suit baby shower gifts, while neon rainbows and smiley faces energize party decor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Kawaii Washi Tape

Follow this detailed process to turn scrapbook paper into functional, adorable washi tape. Each step ensures durability, alignment, and ease of use.

1. Prepare your design layout: Lay out your scrapbook paper and decide which sections to use. Mark strips ½ inch to 1 inch wide with a pencil and ruler. Wider tape works better for wrapping; narrow tape suits journaling.
2. Cut precise paper strips: Using scissors or a craft knife, cut along the marked lines. Keep edges straight for a professional look. If using small motifs, center them within each strip.
3. Apply double-sided tape: Unroll a length of double-sided tape slightly longer than your paper strip. Carefully place the paper on one side, ensuring full contact without air bubbles.
4. Add protective top layer (optional): Cover the paper with clear packing tape or laminating film. This shields against moisture and wear. Press firmly to avoid wrinkles.
5. Seal the surface (optional): Lightly spray both sides with acrylic sealer if the paper is printed or prone to fading. Let dry completely before handling.
6. Trim excess tape: Align the edges of the paper and tape, then trim any overhang with sharp scissors.
7. Wind onto a core: Attach the end of your tape to a cardboard tube or dowel and roll tightly. Store in a cool, dry place.

For continuous rolls, overlap multiple paper segments on a long tape base, ensuring pattern continuity. Use a cutting mat and metal ruler for repetitive sizing.

Feature	DIY Washi Tape	Commercial Washi Tape
Cost per Roll	$0.25–$0.75 (using scraps)	$1.50–$4.00
Customization	Full control over design	Limited to available prints
Durability	Moderate (improved with lamination)	High (factory-coated)
Eco-Friendliness	High (uses recycled materials)	Low (plastic-based backing)
Adhesive Strength	Adjustable (based on tape used)	Consistent, light hold

Tips for Achieving Professional Results

Tip: Work on a flat, clean surface to prevent dust from sticking to the adhesive.

• Use low-tack double-sided tape to avoid damaging delicate paper.
• Test a small piece first to ensure the adhesive doesn’t warp thin paper.
• For seamless rolls, align repeating patterns like polka dots or stripes across multiple strips.
• Label your rolls with masking tape tags indicating theme or color palette.
• If laminating, heat-set the film gently with a hairdryer to avoid bubbling.

Incorporating Themes and Personal Touches

Kawaii culture celebrates cuteness through exaggerated expressions, soft colors, and whimsical elements. To capture this essence, choose scrapbook paper featuring chibi animals, smiling food items, or Japanese-inspired icons like sakura blossoms and bento boxes. You can also print custom designs at home using kawaii clip art and transfer them onto paper before taping.

Consider themed sets for different occasions:

• Study Motivation Set: Features tiny cats holding pencils, “You Can Do It!” banners, and coffee cups.
• Seasonal Kits: Cherry blossoms for spring, watermelons for summer, pumpkins for fall, snowmen for winter.
• Gift Wrapping Collection: Mini envelopes, bows, and hearts in coordinated palettes.

One crafter in Portland, Maya T., started making her own washi tape after struggling to find designs that matched her anime-themed bullet journal. “I had leftover paper from a Sanrio collection,” she shared. “I turned it into narrow tape using double-sided strips and sealed it with Mod Podge. Now I sell kits at local craft fairs.” Her story illustrates how a simple DIY solution can evolve into a microbusiness.

“Handmade washi tape bridges functionality and self-expression. It turns everyday organization into an act of joy.” — Lila Chen, Craft Educator & Author of *The Joyful Planner*

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reuse my homemade washi tape?

Yes, but with limitations. Unlike factory-made washi tape, DIY versions may lose stickiness after repeated peeling, especially if thick paper or strong adhesive is used. For best reusability, use lightweight paper and low-tack tape.

How do I prevent the paper from curling?

Curling occurs when adhesive dries unevenly. To minimize this, apply even pressure with a bone folder or spoon after attaching the paper. Laminating both sides also balances tension and reduces warping.

Is it safe to use on walls or painted surfaces?

Proceed with caution. While low-adhesive tape is generally safe, test a small area first. Paper edges may lift over time, potentially taking paint with them. Best for temporary decor on smooth surfaces like glass or plastic folders.

Checklist: How to Make Kawaii Washi Tape Successfully

1. ✓ Gather scrapbook paper with kawaii designs
2. ✓ Choose low-tack double-sided tape (½” to 1” wide)
3. ✓ Cut paper into uniform strips (match tape width)
4. ✓ Apply paper smoothly to adhesive side
5. ✓ Optional: Laminate with clear tape or film
6. ✓ Seal with acrylic spray if needed
7. ✓ Trim edges neatly
8. ✓ Wind onto a core for storage
9. ✓ Label by theme or color
10. ✓ Test adhesion on a sample surface

Extending the Life of Your DIY Washi Tape

Homemade tape benefits from proper storage. Keep rolls in airtight containers away from humidity and direct sunlight to prevent yellowing or adhesive degradation. Insert silica gel packets to absorb moisture, especially in damp climates.

If your tape loses stickiness, revive it by gently pressing a lint roller over the adhesive side to remove dust. Avoid touching the sticky surface with fingers, as oils reduce grip over time.

For added flair, decorate the cores with stickers or hand-lettered labels. Wrap spools in coordinating ribbon for gift-giving. These finishing touches elevate your creations from craft supply to cherished keepsake.

Conclusion

Creating your own kawaii washi tape transforms ordinary scrapbook paper into delightful, functional art. It empowers you to design exactly what you need—whether it’s a soothing pastel roll for mindfulness journaling or a vibrant set for birthday packages. The process is simple, economical, and deeply satisfying, blending practicality with playful creativity.

💬 Start today: dig out those paper scraps and make your first roll! Share your designs online with #MyKawaiiTape and inspire others to craft with heart.