There’s something about washi tape that just makes everything better. Maybe it’s the colours and patterns or how it adds a touch of personality to any project. Whatever the reason, washi tape is definitely a crafting essential.
But are washi tapes eco-friendly? The quick answer is yes; washi tapes are eco-friendly. But let’s dive a little deeper into what makes washi tape eco-friendly and how you can use it to make your crafting more sustainable.
What Are Washi Tapes & What Do They Look Like?
Washi tapes are traditional Japanese paper tapes that come in many colours and patterns. It’s like a regular tape, except way more fun and creative to use.
The word washi comes from wa, which means Japanese, and shi means paper. So washi literally means Japanese paper. Due to their popularity, washi tapes can now be found in many colours and patterns. And the best part is that they’re very affordable, so you can buy a few different designs to mix and match.
Are Washi Tapes Eco-Friendly?
Washi tapes are eco-friendly because they’re made from natural fibres and plant materials. There are many different washi tapes, but the most common ones are made from paper mulberry bushes.
Hailed as UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage, washi tapes are made using traditional Japanese paper-making techniques. Making washi tape is far more eco-friendly than making other types of tapes and papers.
Also, the adhesive came from rubber, which is a sustainable resource. So when you’re done with your washi tape, you can easily recycle it without any harm to the environment.
How Washi Tapes Are Made
While machines make most washi tapes, handcrafted tapes are the classic washi tape. They are produced by artisanal crafters who often use traditional methods and materials to make their tapes.
The process is intricate as most are done manually. It’s a multi-step process that starts with stripping and boiling the outer bark from paper mulberry bushes and drying it off. The fibres are then boiled and bleached. Any impurities are removed by hand, and the fibres are laid out to be beaten into a pulp.
After this, the pulp is placed in a vat mixed with water and this is where the traditional washi-making skills come into play. The mixture is stirred in a particular way to create the desired thickness and consistency for the tape.
The next step is to pour it into a screen to spread the fibres evenly. It’s then hung out to dry in the sun or a drying room.
Washi tape making is such a labour-intensive art form where each strip is unique. Although time-consuming, it’s what makes washi tapes eco-friendly and high quality.
Washi Tapes Are Popular For Several Reasons
Washi tapes have been a recent trend in crafting and stationery stores for a few years now. Many people enjoy using washi tapes for a variety of reasons.
Versatile
Washi tapes are popular because they’re versatile. They can be used for crafts like scrapbooking, decoration, and wrapping gifts. You can even use them to decorate your walls or create posters using washi tape.
Variety of colours & designs
Whether you are looking for a brightly coloured design or something more subtle, there is sure to be a washi tape that will fit your needs. There are also a variety of designs to choose from, including floral, abstract, and geometric patterns.
Affordable
Washi tapes are affordable, so you don’t need to spend a lot of money just to buy some for your projects or decorative purposes. You’ll also find that they’re very durable so that they will last a long time.
Eco-Friendly
Another reason why washi tapes are so popular is that they are eco-friendly. Unlike some other adhesive tapes, washi tapes are made from natural materials and are easily recycled. They are a more sustainable option than some different types of tape.
Easy to Remove
Unlike standard tapes, washi tapes are easy to remove. That is, you can easily stick and unstick them from the surface without leaving any marks or residue. This is what sets washi tapes apart from other tapes. Plus, they are not as sticky as standard tapes. After removal, they will not leave any marks, and the surface is still clean.
Reusable
Another great thing about washi tapes is that they’re reusable. You can use them multiple times without having to worry about them losing their adhesive quality or colour. Just make sure to store them properly, so they don’t get damaged over time.
Alternatives To Using Washi Tapes
If you’re looking for a more sustainable way to craft, there are alternatives to using washi tapes. They are also biodegradable, non-toxic and safe for use.
One alternative is using paper tapes. Paper tapes are usually brown and are made of recycled paper. They are less colourful than washi tapes, but they’re just as versatile and fun to use. You can find them in most stationery stores or online.
Another alternative is using cellulose tapes instead of plastic tapes. Although it maintains the look of regular tapes, cellulose tape is biodegradable and can be recycled. It’s a good choice if you want to be more environmentally friendly with your crafting.
Water-based adhesive tapes, commonly known as gummed tapes, are also good alternatives. It only becomes sticky when wet, but it is biodegradable and can be used to seal envelopes or secure items together. In the market, gummed tapes typically come in brown rolls, easily mistaken for regular adhesive tape.
Final Word
If you are looking for a way to be more eco-friendly in your crafting, look no further than washi tape. Washi tape is made from natural fibres and can easily be recycled or composted. In addition, using washi tape instead of regular adhesive materials can help reduce the amount of waste produced by your craft projects. So go ahead and add some washi tape to your next project–you’ll be doing yourself and the environment a favour.