5 Vintage Washi Tape Projects to Elevate Your Journal

Vintage Washi Tape: Beyond Decoration, Unlocking Creative Possibilities for Your Journal

Do you have a drawer full of washi tape, but find yourself unsure how to use it when it’s time to create in your journal? Don't let these beautiful tapes be just an afterthought. Today, let’s fully explore the potential of vintage washi tape, transforming it from a supporting player into the star of your journal pages.

Part 1: The Basics: 3 Must-Know Techniques to Instantly Elevate Your Layouts

For beginners, mastering these three “universal formulas” can make any page look better instantly.

1. Creating Vintage Borders & Dividers

• Simple Single Layer: Running a strip of tape along the edge of your page or around a block of text is the simplest and most effective method. Choose tapes with distressed tones, fine checks, or subtle prints to establish a vintage style.
• Layered Combinations: Try placing 2-3 different but tonally coordinated tapes side-by-side to create rich layers and depth.

2. Making “Faux Stamps” & Custom Labels

• How-to: Apply the washi tape to release paper or plain white paper, then use scissors or a craft knife to cut out stamp-like serrated edges or simple label shapes (squares, circles).
• Application: Use your homemade “stamp” on the corner of a photo, or write dates/locations on the “label” for a unique touch.

3. Quick Backgrounds & Base Layers
Create a unique background by aligning and pasting large areas of tape side-by-side. For example, using vintage newspaper-pattern tape as a base for an old photo is simple and incredibly versatile.

Part 2: Next-Level: 2 Creative Washi Tape Projects

Project 1: Create a “Tape Landscape Collage”

• Concept: Use tape to create a simple landscape like distant mountains, a lake, or a sunset—no drawing skills needed.
• Method: You can use pre-printed landscape-themed tapes and layer them for depth, or use solid-color tapes to create your own unique scenery through collage.
• Finishing Touch: Place a small figure or building sticker in front of the “landscape” to give the scene an immediate focal point and story.

60 Color Rainbow Washi Tape Set—Unleash Your Creativity in Every Hue 🌈

Project 2: Design an Interactive “Letter” Page

• Concept: Mimic old-fashioned stationery to create a “letter” page that can hold notes or cards.
• Steps:

   

1. 1. Start with a kraft paper or plain white background.
   2. Use vintage border washi tape to frame a “letter” area in the center of the page.
   3. Decorate the top-right corner with stamp-patterned tape.
   4. Embellish the edges of the “letter” with lace or floral-pattern tapes.

 

• Finishing Touch: Write your message inside the letter area, or design it as a small pocket that opens to hold a note card inside.

Part 3: Inspiration Library: N Ways to Use One Roll of Tape

The creativity of washi tape isn’t limited to your journal:

• Decorate Everyday Items: Personalize plain pen barrels, phone cases, or coffee mugs.
• Make Custom Bookmarks: Apply tape to cardstock, punch a hole, and attach a tassel for a one-of-a-kind vintage bookmark.
• Wrap Gifts & Cards: Use tape instead of traditional ribbon to seal gifts or decorate card edges—it’s full of thoughtful charm.

Let Creativity Flow: How Will You Use Your Next Roll of Tape?

We hope these techniques and washi tape projects help you rediscover the value of the treasure in your drawer. Remember, the best creative tool is a curious mind willing to experiment and combine.

>> Explore Our Vintage Washi Tape Series to Ignite Your Next Creative Project

We look forward to seeing your creations! Feel free to share your washi tape ideas on Instagram and tag @post.flutter. Your clever ideas might be the inspiration another beginner is searching for.