How to Choose the Best Japanese Washi Tape for Art and Journaling: Top Brands & Expert Tips

Introduction

Close-up macro image showing the texture and tearability of a Japanese washi tape strip being torn b — Photo by Học Viện Chăm Sóc Sắc Đẹp Á Âu on Unsplash

Washi tape has become a staple for artists, journalers, and crafters around the world. Originating from Japan, this decorative masking tape is prized for its beautiful designs, easy tearability, and repositionable adhesive. However, with so many Japanese washi tape brands available, choosing the best one for your art or journaling projects can be overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to select the perfect tape, featuring top Japanese brands and expert tips inspired by Japanese camping organization.

Why This Matters

Product lineup photo featuring the four top Japanese washi tape brands mentioned (MT Masking Tape, K — Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash

Choosing the right tape is more than just picking pretty patterns. The quality affects how it adheres, tears, and ages on your pages or projects. For journalers, artists, and even outdoor enthusiasts who use tape for organization or decoration on gear, durability and design authenticity matter. Japanese washi tapes are renowned for their craftsmanship and innovation, reflecting centuries of paper-making tradition. Understanding the differences can elevate your creative projects and ensure your tape performs well in various environments.

Main Content

A creative art journaling spread showcasing layered washi tapes of different widths, mixed media ele — Photo by Dwayne joe on Unsplash

1. What is Washi Tape? Understanding the Basics

Washi tape is made from traditional Japanese paper called “washi,” typically crafted from fibers of the mulberry bush, mitsumata shrub, or ganpi tree. This natural fiber composition gives the tape its unique texture, flexibility, and strength. Unlike plastic tapes, washi tape is breathable and easy to remove without leaving residue, thanks to the combination of washi paper and specially formulated adhesives, making it ideal for temporary decoration and layering in art and journaling.

2. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Washi Tape

Material Quality: High-quality tape will have a smooth yet textured feel, and tear easily by hand without fraying.
Adhesive Strength: Look for tapes with adhesive that sticks well but can be repositioned or removed cleanly.
Design and Print Quality: Japanese brands often offer intricate patterns inspired by nature, seasons, and traditional art.
Width and Length: Choose tape width based on your project—narrow for fine details, wider for bold decoration. Also consider roll length to avoid frequent replacements.
Environmental Resistance: For outdoor journaling or camping uses, consider tape that withstands humidity and temperature changes, though washi tape is best used in protected or short-term outdoor scenarios.

3. Top Japanese Washi Tape Brands to Know

Here are some of the most respected Japanese washi tape brands, known for their superior quality and creative designs. Note that manufacturing locations may vary by product.

MT Masking Tape

MT (short for Masking Tape) is arguably the most iconic Japanese washi tape brand, produced by Kamoi Kakoshi Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kagawa, Japan. MT tapes are famous for their vibrant colors, clear prints, and excellent adhesive balance. They come in a wide variety of patterns, from traditional motifs to contemporary art collaborations. MT tapes are widely used in art journaling and DIY projects.

King Jim “King Tape”

King Jim is a well-known Japanese stationery brand primarily recognized for office supplies and planners. They offer King Tape, which includes adhesive tapes with functional and minimalist designs. However, King Tape is not widely marketed specifically as washi tape, so users should verify product details when considering it for washi tape purposes.

Classiky

Classiky is an independent Japanese stationery brand known for vintage-inspired designs that blend traditional charm with modern aesthetics. Their tapes tend to have muted color palettes and classic patterns, perfect for elegant bullet journals or scrapbookers who favor understated styles.

Mind Wave

Mind Wave produces a variety of stationery items, including tapes featuring cute characters and seasonal themes. Their products are popular among younger audiences and kawaii art fans. While Mind Wave is a Japanese brand, some products may be manufactured outside Japan.

4. How to Select Washi Tape for Different Projects

Choosing tape depends on your creative goals and how you plan to use it.

For Art Journaling

Opt for tapes with high-quality prints and good adhesion so they stay secure on varied paper textures.
MT Masking Tape and Classiky are excellent choices for layering and mixed media.
Try combining tapes of different widths for dynamic page layouts.

For Bullet Journaling and Planning

Look for tapes with functional patterns like grids, dots, or calendar motifs.
King Tape and some MT lines provide clean, minimalistic designs suited for organization.
Choose narrower widths (5-10mm) for precise application on planner pages.

For Outdoor and Camping Use

Inspired by Japanese camping organization—where meticulous gear customization is valued—washi tape can be used to label items, reinforce gear, or decorate notebooks. However, washi tape is best suited for short-term or protected outdoor use, as it is not waterproof and can degrade with prolonged exposure to rain or sunlight.

MT tapes generally perform well under moderate conditions but avoid long-term exposure to rain or direct sunlight.
Consider doubling up tape layers or pairing with waterproof labels for enhanced durability.
Snow Peak, a premium Japanese camping brand based in Niigata, Japan, does not produce washi tape but exemplifies Japanese attention to quality and design that you can emulate with your gear labeling.

5. How to Test and Store Your Washi Tape

Before committing to large rolls, test small amounts of tape on your project surface to check adhesion and removability. Store tape in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to prevent adhesive degradation and color fading.

Pro Tips from Japan

Use Your Fingertips for Tearing: Japanese crafters often tear tape by hand for a more organic, textured edge rather than using scissors.
Layer for Unique Effects: Overlapping tapes can create new patterns and color blends, a technique popular in Japanese art journaling circles.
Combine Tape with Rubber Stamps: Many Japanese journaling enthusiasts pair tape with hand stamps to add personalized flair.
Label Gear Strategically: Inspired by Japanese camping organization, use tape to color-code and label your outdoor gear, notebooks, or hydration packs.
Be Mindful of Environmental Exposure: While versatile, washi tape is not waterproof. For camping or outdoor use, apply tape on protected surfaces or use clear waterproof covers.

Conclusion

Choosing the best Japanese washi tape for your art and journaling projects involves understanding the tape’s material quality, adhesive properties, and design aesthetics. Japanese brands like MT, King Jim, and Classiky offer a range of tapes catering to different creative needs. Whether you’re decorating a bullet journal, crafting a scrapbook, or organizing your camping gear with flair, selecting the right tape enhances both function and beauty. Remember to test tapes for your specific use case and store them properly to maintain their quality. From experience testing these tapes in Japan’s diverse environments, integrating washi tape into your projects brings a touch of cultural craftsmanship and practical elegance.