In the world of DIY (Do It Yourself) and other customization projects, one trend quickly replaces another. To stay current and continue to impress your guests with your decorative finds, turn your attention to a seemingly unassuming new product that proves to be a valuable ally: decorative tape!
From transparent tape to masking tape
This incredibly practical product has come a long way since its invention in 1930 by Richard Drew! The engineer developed a transparent adhesive tape for the Scotch brand, which employed him. The product was a huge success and became synonymous with the company, which even lent its name to the invention. Effective for displaying drawings on walls, mending torn paper, or sealing boxes, Scotch tape became a household staple. Now, it’s not just utilitarian but also decorative. Initially found on gift wrapping, cards, and notebooks, what we now call masking tape or decorative tape has the unique characteristic of being tearable by hand and infinitely repositionable. It’s an adhesive version of washi paper , a traditional Japanese paper. Covered in patterns or monochrome, the rolls come in various sizes.
What can you do with masking tape?
Unleash your creativity! With this easily removable adhesive tape, you can transform your interior without any regrets. For example, you could:
- Create a wall calendar that will decorate a cupboard door or a wall – in addition to being very practical!
- Decorate your walls by drawing geometric patterns: no need for paintings or sculptures; you become a true artist.
- Surround your pencils with a colorful pencil case that will make even the most reluctant love homework and reports.
- Customize decorative objects such as candle holders or vases for a decoration that is uniquely yours.
Lacking inspiration?
There’s no shortage of decorating ideas on specialized websites or on Pinterest, the network that allows users to create boards to pin images they like. A search for “masking tape” on Pinterest yields numerous sources of inspiration.
Masking tape: How to use it
Using masking tape – and this is undoubtedly what makes it so popular – is extremely simple. Just like with regular Scotch tape, you simply unroll the roll and cut it once you’ve reached the desired length. You can use a utility knife, scissors, or even tear it by hand, depending on the effect you want to achieve. Then, simply stick it to the wall, furniture, or object you want to customize. If you’re embarking on a more ambitious project, like drawing on a wall with masking tape, it’s obviously best to carefully measure and outline the desired shape before sticking the tape anywhere.
Where can I buy it?
Masking tape suppliers are now so numerous that it’s easy to get lost! We’ve selected three websites where you’re sure to find what you’re looking for:
- Lovely Tape. Both an online shop and a blog, this lovely site is playful and creative.
- Masking Tape. This site is very professional and only offers high-quality Japanese products.
- CreaVea. This comprehensive platform is the perfect place for 100% handmade and creative shopping.
