If you’ve ever spent time doing crafts, journaling, or decorating, chances are you’ve come across washi tape. This colorful, patterned tape has become a favorite for DIYers, scrapbookers, and organizers alike. But for anyone thinking about using it for outdoor projects, bathroom decor, or anything that might get wet, a question arises: Is washi tape waterproof?
The simple answer is no—washi tape is not fully waterproof. However, it has some level of water resistance, and there are ways to work around its lack of water-proofing if you’re set on using it in certain environments. In this post, we’ll dive into why people choose washi tape, the different types, its benefits, and how you can make it more water-friendly for your projects.
Why Choose Washi Tape?
Before we talk about the water-resistance of washi tape, let’s take a quick look at why washi tape is so popular. Washi tape is a type of decorative masking tape originally made in Japan. It’s made from natural fibers, typically bamboo, hemp, or the bark of trees like the mulberry or gampi tree. The result is a lightweight, semi-transparent, and easily tearable tape that comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
People love washi tape because it’s incredibly versatile and fun to work with. You can find it in every design imaginable—from minimalist solid colors to tapes adorned with floral patterns, animals or even abstract shapes. It’s great for personalizing your workspace, wrapping gifts, decorating notebooks, and adding some flair to nearly any surface. Plus, it’s gentle on surfaces and easily removable, making it ideal for renters or temporary projects.
Types of Washi Tape
When talking about washi tape, it’s important to understand that not all washi tape is created equally. While most washi tape is made with similar natural materials, there are slight variations depending on the brand and purpose of the tape.
- Standard Washi Tape: This is the most common type of washi tape. It’s thin, easy to tear by hand, and typically semi-transparent. It sticks well to paper, wood, glass, and other smooth surfaces but can be peeled off without leaving any sticky residue. Standard washi tape isn’t meant to withstand wet conditions, but it can tolerate a little moisture.
- Fabric-Based Washi Tape: A thicker variation of washi tape, this type incorporates fabric elements, making it more durable. While it still isn’t waterproof, it’s a bit stronger and more resistant to wear and tear. This type may have slightly better water resistance but not by much.
- Foil Washi Tape: Some washi tape features metallic or foil accents, giving it a shiny, reflective look. While the foil might give the appearance of durability, this type of tape behaves similarly to regular washi tape and won’t hold up under water exposure for long.
- Wider and Thicker Washi Tape: Larger washi tapes are often used for bigger projects like wall decorations or creating patterns on furniture. These thicker tapes are still not waterproof but might be able to handle a little more wear and tear compared to their thinner counterparts.
Benefits of Using Washi Tape
Despite not being waterproof, washi tape has plenty of advantages that keep people reaching for it time and time again.
- Easy to Use: One of the best things about washi tape is how simple it is to work with. You don’t need scissors to cut it since you can tear it by hand. It’s also easy to reposition if you make a mistake, and it won’t damage your surfaces.
- Endless Design Options: There’s a washi tape for everyone, no matter what your style is. You can find every pattern, color, and design under the sun. Whether you want something subtle or something that pops, there’s a washi tape out there for you.
- Gentle on Surfaces: Washi tape sticks well but doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue. This makes it perfect for temporary decorations or projects that might need to be removed or updated later. You can use it on walls, furniture, or notebooks without worrying about damage.
- Eco-Friendly: Since washi tape is made from natural fibers, it’s generally more eco-friendly than many other tapes on the market. It’s also biodegradable, so you’re not adding more plastic waste to the environment when you’re done with it.
- Affordable: Washi tape is relatively inexpensive, especially considering how many design options are available. You can easily find packs of washi tape with multiple patterns at a budget-friendly price.
Steps to Make Washi Tape Water-Resistant
Even though washi tape isn’t waterproof, there are a few tricks you can use to make it more water-resistant if you’re determined to use it in a moisture-prone environment. Here are a few steps you can take:
- Seal It with Clear Tape: One of the easiest ways to protect washi tape from water is by covering it with clear packing tape or another waterproof tape. This layer of protection will prevent water from seeping through the washi tape and damaging the design underneath.
- Use a Sealant Spray: You can also use a clear sealant spray or varnish to coat your washi tape projects. Be sure to apply several thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next. This will provide a waterproof barrier over the tape, helping it last longer when exposed to moisture.
- Choose Non-Wet Areas: If possible, avoid using washi tape in areas that are likely to get wet, such as bathrooms or outdoor spaces. Instead, stick to drier areas like bedrooms, offices, or living rooms where the tape won’t be exposed to water regularly.
- Laminating Sheets: For smaller projects like bookmarks or decorative cards, you can place the washi-taped item inside a laminating sheet to protect it from water.
Conclusion
So, is washi tape waterproof? The straightforward answer is no. However, its water resistance can be enhanced with a little creativity and planning. Washi tape’s versatility, endless design possibilities, and ease of use make it a fantastic choice for all kinds of indoor projects. While you’ll need to take extra steps to protect it from moisture, the benefits far outweigh this small downside.
Whether you’re decorating your planner, wrapping gifts, or sprucing up a room, washi tape can add a touch of personality to just about anything. And with some protective measures, you can even use it in slightly damp environments. Just remember that it’s not designed to handle being fully submerged or exposed to water for long periods.
FAQs
Is washi tape water-resistant?
Washi tape has some level of water resistance, meaning it can handle a little moisture or humidity. However, it’s not waterproof and will not hold up in situations where it’s constantly exposed to water.
Can I use washi tape in the bathroom?
You can use washi tape in the bathroom, but it’s best to avoid areas where it will be directly exposed to water, like near sinks or showers. To make it last longer in moist areas, consider covering it with a clear sealant or tape.
How can I protect washi tape from water?
To make washi tape more water-resistant, you can cover it with clear packing tape, spray it with a waterproof sealant, or use laminating sheets for smaller projects.
Can I remove washi tape easily?
Yes, one of the main benefits of washi tape is that it’s easy to remove. It doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue and won’t damage surfaces, making it perfect for temporary projects or decorations.
Is washi tape environmentally friendly?
Yes! Washi tape is made from natural fibers like bamboo and hemp, making it more eco-friendly than traditional plastic tapes. It’s also biodegradable, which means it’s less harmful to the environment.
