25 Genius Bullet Journal Washi Tape Ideas
As my washi tape addiction grows, I’ve discovered that I’m not alone—many of us have loads of washi tape we don’t use often.
To remedy this, I’ve come up with 25 fun washi tape ideas to incorporate into your Bullet Journal. Because let’s face it, washi tape is amazing and beautiful, and we absolutely should use it, especially after all the money we keep spending on it. Wouldn’t you agree?
Washi tape isn’t just pretty; it’s a versatile tool that can transform your Bullet Journal into a vibrant masterpiece. Think of it as colorful armor for your pages, ready to protect and beautify at the same time.
With washi tape, the possibilities are endless, making your investment totally worth it—not to mention, it’s a surefire way to keep your creative juices flowing.
I’m totally addicted to washi – there are just so many beautiful types of washi tapes out there in the world! Just check out this beauty; how can you ignore it?
I’m sure I’m not the only washi tape hoarder here. I bet you also have tons of washi tapes mysteriously appearing in your stationery trolley, nesting there and forming families.
But if you’re anything like me, sadly, most of your collection also goes pretty much unused (let me know in the comments to release some guilt).
But with a little bit of research adn creative thinking you can definitely turn these rolls of joy into your best helpers and companions.
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Washi Tape Recommendations
Since we’re talking about ways to use washi tape, I thought it would be fun to mention a few places where you can get some of the best washi tapes.
Just like stickers, there are so many differnt sizes, desigsn and textures for wahsi tape that you can always fidn soemthign that fits your style, no matter how niche it is.
Here are a few places I can recommend to get washi tape rolls you’ll love.
- Washi Tape Shop – this is the top place to get washi tapes; they have all the possible colors and designs available, so you can find something that fits our style and aesthetics.
- Kuldlelu – is a wonderful Finnish stationery store that also has 190+ washi tapes with different designs and colors.
- EmilyCromwellDesigns – incredible shop with brightly colored washi tapes you’ll love using.
- PlannerEnvy – amazing store with stickers, washi tapes, and everything you need for your planning. They have 140+ washi tape sets with different colors and designs.
- I like Amazon for their great collection of basic and neutral washi tapes, that ultimately can go very well with any style and any theme.
Now that we have covered just a few interesting places to get some beautiful washi tapes, let’s talk about ways you can use them to elevate your Bullet Journal pages.
How To Use Washi Tape
Here are some creative and fun washi tape ideas for your Bullet Journal that will not only spark joy but also add a splash of color and creativity to your pages.
Just one more thing—I’ve got a video at the end of the post where I demonstrate 13 fantastic ways to use washi tape in your BuJo. Seeing these ideas in action can truly bring your journal to life, so be sure to scroll down to catch all the tips and tricks in motion.
Page Tabs
Do you want to easily flip through your journal? Use some washi tape to create little tabs.
Cut a piece of washi tape and stick around ⅓ of it to a page. Then, fold the tape and stick it to the other side of the page.
This will create a small little flap coming out of your pages, so the marked page will always stand out and it will be easy to find.
You can add those to section out the months in your BuJo, or maybe just to mark important pages you’ll be going back to often.
Alternatively, you can always cut out your dividers from harder paper like scrapbooking paper and use washi tape to attach them to your pages.
Cover Up Mistakes
Washi is amazing at covering up mistakes, especially if they happen to be on a header.
It’s pretty easy. Basically, just cover your mistake with washi tape! Use black washi to write with white (or gold) pen on top of it, or maybe add something cheerful and colorful – whatever fits your page design better!
You can even turn it into a theme for the page you’re making and make all the headers the same way with washi tape. No one will ever know of that mistake hiding behind it unless you blog about it.
Be sure to check the end of the post for a post with some more ideas on how to fix mistakes in your journal if that is something you want to learn more about.
Post-it Note
Use washi tape to create a post-it note. It can be just more space for you to write your tasks, or maybe it can be a decoration or a way to cover something beneath it, be it a mistake or some private information.
Start by cutting a piece of paper. It might be dotted paper from the end of your journal or, if you wanna add some special drawings, you can cut out a piece of watercolor paper to draw on it.
Then just use a piece of washi tape to attach it to your page. You can use it from just one side so you can flop and check the information below. Or you can attach washi from two sides and cover completely what’s underneath.
Hollowed Out Lettering
Washi tape can help you create some pretty fun lettering that is perfect for your headers.
Cut a few inches of washi tape and stick it on your hand a few times to make sure it’s not that sticky. Then add it to your page, leaving some space above and below it.
Next step – take a marker and write your header on top of your washi tape. Make sure your letters appear both below and above the tape.
Next – take another colored pen or marker (a fineliner in my case) and trace along the horizontal sides of the washi tape. Or don’t, it’s up to you, depends on what look you want to go with.
Finally, peel off the washi tape and write your header inside. It can be the same word or maybe the second part of the header.
Washi Tape For Headers
Washi tapes offer an exciting array of possibilities when it comes to crafting unique and eye-catching headers in your Bullet Journal. You can definitely write directly on top of washi tape to create a bold and playful header, adding a touch of flair that draws attention to your pages.
Alternatively, frame your header with washi tape to give it a decorative boost, turning a simple title into a centerpiece.
For an extra layer of creativity, try layering different patterns and widths of washi tape for a textured effect that adds depth to your journal. Experiment with combining washi tape with other materials, like stickers or stamps, to create multi-dimensional headers that truly pop.
The possibilities are endless, and with a little experimentation, you’ll find yourself coming up with new, fun ways to make your headers stand out with the help of washi tape.
Washi Tape Dividers
Let’s say you’re setting up a weekly spread. What is the most daunting task about it for you?
For me, it’s drawing all the dividing lines. I just have something against rulers and drawing lines is probably the only part about Bullet Journaling I don’t actually enjoy that much.
But thankfully there is a simple solution for that – you can just use thin washi tape to divide your days! A good use for your washi and a way to set up your spreads even faster.
Banners
Here is a fun idea to use washi tape on your weekly spread – create little decorative banners. All you need is washi tape and a pair of scissors.
As you can see, there are two ways you can do it. Just use some fun colored washi tape for simple decoration or use some dark washi to write the date on top of the banner.
Color Coding
Are you into color coding? Assign a special washi tape to a certain category and then add that washi to the edges of a particular page.
Take a piece of washi tape (it could cover the whole edge or just a part) and stick half of it on the page, then fold it and stick the other half to the other side of the page.
Done! Now, even with the notebook closed, you’ll be able to easily see where you have what kind of information.
Decoration
Washi tapes are great for decorating your Bullet Journal, especially if you’re in a hurry and don’t have much time to draw.
Use washi tape as your header, as a divider between blocks of maybe just at the bottom or top of your page.
I love using washi tape to decorate my quote pages. But they also are great to bring a theme together – just use the same washi tape on all your pages, and it will look more cohesive.
You’ll see it on most of my quote pages – there are two striped of washi tape in each corner. I find that it helps balance the quote, and it’s definitely a fun way to fill out the blank space if it bothers you as much as it bothers me.
Washi Tape Swatch Page
I LOOOOOVE swatch pages, you can see them appearing over and over on my Instagram account (which you should totally visit and follow!).
Swatches aren’t only about the pens though, you can create some super creative washi tape swatches as well!
This is a great outlook on all your collections, plus you’ll be able to see at one glance what washi are a good match together. It’s super helpful for the next time you want to use them to decorate your pages.
Highlight Important Pages
Want to easily find an important page in your Bullet Journal? You can of course use a tap, but there is one more way this can be achieved.
Simply add some washi tape at the border of the page you need to stand out. When your journal is closed you’ll see clearly where are the important pages.
Paper Clip Flags
Paper clips can be super useful for finding certain information in your journal, but it will be even easier if you add little washi flags to them.
Cut out a small piece of washi and fold it in half around the side of your paper clip. Then cut out the outer ends to be the shape of a flag.
Borders
Washi tape is a delightful way to decorate the borders of your Bullet Journal pages, offering a splash of fun and color that can instantly elevate the look of your journal.
By strategically placing washi tape along the edges, you can unify a theme throughout your journal, creating a cohesive and visually appealing design.
With washi tape, the possibilities are endless, and each border becomes an opportunity to express yourself. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist aesthetic or a more elaborate design, washi tape offers a versatile tool to bring your Bullet Journal to life, one border at a time.
Headers
Using washi tape can be a great time-saving hack for setting up your weekly spreads.
One of the cool things you can get is washi tape with days of the week, this will allow you to make pretty headers in no time!
I also know there is perforated washi tape with signifiers, so you can just stick it to your daily box and save even more time!
If you don’t have any special washi tape but have stickers, you can add colorful washi tape and stick some headers on the top; that way, they will look much more fun and colorful.
Decorate Planner Cover
We can use washi tape not only to decorate Bullet Journal pages but also the cover pages.
It will take quite a lot of tape surely, but I always feel like the rolls of washi tape are pretty endless. With quite a few years of using washi tape, I’m yet to run even close to the end of any of my washi tape rolls.
You can definitely leave the page as it is, decorated with beautiful washi tape patterns. You can also add something on top, such as the name of the month or maybe information about your journal.
Use Washi Tape On Your Pens
You can use your washi tape on your pens and pencils. In two ways, actually.
The first idea is to mark the pens you’re using now. I don’t know about you, but I have quite a few of the same pens in my stash, so I always have a spare one in case the one I’m currently using runs out of ink.
Of course, I don’t want to use them all at the same time, so to make sure I don’t, I sometimes add a little washi tape on the pen I’m using at the moment.
Another way of using washi on your pens is to decorate them. Basically, you can just wrap washi around your pencils and make them look much more festive.
Measure how long your pencil is and cut out more or less the same length of washi tape. Stick the long side to your pencil and wrap it around it. If needed, add one more piece of the tape.
Sharpen your pencil, and you’re ready to rock with a new cool pencil.
DIY Pen Loop
You can also get crafty and create a pen holder for your journal.
Not every notebook comes with a pen loop, but it might be something you really want to have, especially if you go out a lot with your journal and need to take notes outside of the comfort of your desk.
I leave you this little video tutorial that explains how you can easily create a pen look just with some washi tape.
Add A DIY Envelope
Are you looking for some secret storage in your BuJo? Try creating an envelope and adding it to your BuJo with washi tape.
For DIY envelopes, I’d recommend using scrapbooking paper, even though the usual printing paper works just as well. Just don’t go for carton paper that’s hard to fold.
To add your envelope to your BuJo, just use washi tape on two or three sides, and you’re done!
You can keep there some mementos, or maybe something private and secret. Alternatively, you can just store there your stickers!
Photo Frame
As you know, I’m pretty obsessed with creating memory pages and adding photos to my Bullet Journal and my memory-keeping journals. It’s such a beautiful way to capture moments and keep them close to my heart.
If you’re like me and love incorporating photos in your journal, here’s a delightful trick to try: create a charming little frame around your photos using washi tape.
This not only highlights your cherished memories but also adds a personal touch to each page. You can play around with different washi tape patterns and colors to match the vibe of your photos.
For a cohesive look, use tapes that complement the color scheme of your photos or the theme of your page.
Creating Neat Edges
Whether you use watercolor or markers, washi tape can help you create neater-looking edges.
Before you draw, just add the washi tape around your drawing. Just like that, you don’t have to worry anymore about having perfect lines around your art piece – your washi tape will help you keep them straight and clean.
And unsticking washi after you’re done is so satisfying!
Washi Tape For Trackers
This idea might take a bit more time, but it’s a fantastic and enjoyable way to put your washi tapes to great use.
Think of it as a mini creative escape where you can let your imagination run wild. Not only does it allow you to experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures, but it also offers a wonderful opportunity to personalize your trackers.
Add A Flap To Your Page
A flap can be pretty useful in your Bullet Journal. First of all, this adds extra space to your page, which is something you might find very helpful (for example for your weekly spreads).
Second, it’s a nice way to keep some information private. We all want to share our pretty pages on Instagram, but maybe you don’t want to show it all. Add your sensitive information behind the flap, and you’re good to go.
Start by taking a piece of paper the same height as your BuJo page. The best way to do this is to cut out a piece from the back of your journal or from your old journal if you’re using the same brand.
Cut out a piece of washi tape and stick half of it to that piece of paper. Then match that paper to the edge of your notebook page and stick the other half of your washi tape to it.
Finally, make sure to cut out the washi and the flop corners to fit your BuJo.
You can check my video at the end of the post to see this technique in action.
If you want to secure your flap even more, you can add washi tape on the outer side of it as well.
Create A Pocket
Another way to add storage to your Bullet Journal with washi tape is by creating a small pocket. Those are great to keep your stickers or maybe some random notes.
There are a few ways you can do it, depending on how many things you want to store inside.
First, you can just take a piece of paper and tape it from three sides to your Bullet Journal pages. This is a simple solution, but you probably won’t be able to put there as many things.
Another way is to create a little pocket. Take a rectangular piece of paper and fold it on three sides; each flap should be half an inch wide.
Cut out the two corners between the vertical and horizontal flaps.
To add the pocket to your bujo page, stick half of the washi tape piece to each flap. Then just stick the whole pocket on your page.
Bullet Journal Key Flap
This is the trick I used on my last Bullet Journal. Having a key on a flap is extremely useful, especially for beginners.
If you’re just getting used to the signifiers system, or maybe you added some new, or maybe you’re trying out color coding – having a key flap is a lifesaver.
You won’t need to flip all the way back to the first page of your journal – just flip out the key, and you’re golden. With the flap, it’s always in front of your eyes when you need it.
It’s pretty easy to do it as well. Take a piece of paper and write your key there; try to center everything on the left or right, depending on which side of the notebook you’ll be adding it.
Then fold the paper and align it to your Bullet Journal cover. Finally, stick it with some washi tape.
To make sure it’s more stable, I’d recommend making the flap that attaches to the cover to be pretty large. In my case, it was the same size as the part with my key.
Washi Tape Art
This is something I never thought about until I saw how creatively people use washi tape.
A lot of wonderful artists use washi tape instead of any type of marker to add color to their artworks. How incredible is that!
I never tried doing anything like that, but doesn’t it sound like a fun way to use your washi tape?
13 Washi Tape Ideas For Your Bullet Journal
If you’re eager to see some of these creative ideas come to life, you’re in luck!
I’ve recorded a video showcasing 13 fantastic ways to use washi tape, and it’s a must-watch for anyone looking to enhance their journaling game.
Visual learners will find it particularly helpful to see each step in action, making it easier to replicate the ideas in your own Bullet Journal. Plus, it’s a fun way to explore new possibilities and see how a simple roll of washi tape can transform your pages.
So grab your journal, get comfortable, and check out the video for a dose of colorful creativity and hands-on tips!
Washi tapes are not just pretty, but also can be super useful. Make sure you give a try to some of these ideas and start more actively using your washi tape collection.
Creativity Freebies
If you’re looking for something else that will help you easily decorate your Bullet Journal pages, I’ve got something special for you.
I’ve created 3 exclusive freebies to help you add a spark of creativity to your Bullet Journal.
Simply sign up in the form below, and once you confirm your subscription, you’ll get the freebies and tons of other resources on decorating your journal.
More Resources
Are you looking for some more ideas and tips on how to decorate your Bulklet Journal and use your supplies to the full capacity? I’ve got you covered.
Check out these blog posts next:
- 11 Creative Ways To Fix Bullet Journal Mistakes
- 11 Terrific Supplies Under $10 To Hack Your Bullet Journal
- Creative Bullet Journal Banner Ideas
>>> What is your favorite way to use washi in your Bullet Journal? Let us know in the comments!
Hope this post was useful, if you find it so, please share! If you enjoy my content and want to show your appreciation, please consider supporting me with a cup of coffee.
And remember: Keep Bullet Journaling, and Don’t Be A Blob.
Great ideas. Ridiculous amount of ads messing up your wonderful article.
Thanks, glad you liked the ideas =)