Learn how to make DIY washi tape with packing tape, Mod Podge, and napkins or stencils! A budget-friendly craft for planners, stationery, and more.

Supplies to Make Homemade Decorative Tape

How to make DIY washi tape using packaging tape.

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Why I love this craft

If you’re anything like me, you can never have enough washi tape! It’s such a fun way to add personality to planners, envelopes, crafts, and gift wrap. But instead of buying rolls of decorative tape, why not make your own?

In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make DIY washi tape using packing tape, Mod Podge, and decorative napkins (or paint and stencils). This method is inexpensive, versatile, and honestly a little addictive once you get started. Let’s get making!

How to Make Washi Tape Using Paper Napkins

Do I need a certain type of packaging tape?

For the DIY washi tape with packaging tape craft, you don’t need anything too fancy, but the type of tape you choose will affect your results. Here’s what works best:

Clear packaging tape – You’ll want the standard wide, transparent kind. This is important because the goal is to transfer or layer designs onto the tape, so you need it to be see-through.

Matte vs. glossy – Glossy Mod Podge works fine, but it will have a shiny finish. If you want it to look closer to real washi tape (which is usually matte), you can use matte Mod Podge.

Width – Standard wide packaging tape (2″ or so) gives you more space for designs. You can cut it down into thinner strips after making your “washi.”

Avoid:

Brown/tan packing tape (not see-through).
Cheap tape that yellows quickly or doesn’t peel well—it will ruin the look.

The inspiration for this craft:

The primary inspiration for this craft stems from making DIY fabric tape to use on planners, journals, envelopes, gift wrap, or any DIY project that could use a decorative touch. Once you make your first roll, I guarantee you’ll be hooked!

Video Tutorial: DIY Washi Tape Using Packaging Tape

Watch this quick video to see how this craft came together:

How to make decorative tape using packing tape and paper napkins

DIY Washi Tape using Packing Tape

Active Time: 30 minutes

Additional Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour

Difficulty: easy

Make custom washi tape at home with Mod Podge and packing tape! Fun, budget-friendly decorative tape you can use on all your craft projects.

Materials

Packing tape
Parchment paper (acts as the tape backing)
Matte Mod Podge
Decorative napkins (separate the top printed ply)
Acrylic paint and stencils (optional, for painted designs)

Tools

Scissors
Paintbrush or foam brush
Stencil pouncer brush (if using stencils)
Clothes pins (to secure finished rolls

Instructions

Watch video. Follow along with the video tutorial for a walkthrough on how to make your own washi tape using packing tape.
Prep your base. Cut a strip of parchment paper slightly wider than your packing tape. Tape down the ends of the parchment to your work surface so it stays put. Smooth a strip of packing tape right on top of the parchment.
Apply mod podge. Brush a thin, even coat of matte Mod Podge across the entire surface of the packing tape.
Add your design. Choose one of two ways to do this: the napkin method or painted and stenciled method. Seal with a topcoat of Mod Podge.
Let it dry. Set your tape aside until it’s completely dry.
Trim the tape. Using scissors, carefully trim off any excess napkin or paint beyond the edges of the tape. For thinner strips, cut the wide packing tape into thirds (or whatever size you like).
Store your washi tape. Keep the parchment paper backing in place until you’re ready to use. Roll your finished tape strips into little bundles and secure them with a paper clip. When you’re crafting, just peel away the parchment and stick your washi tape wherever you like!