Washi Tape and Ephemera Bookmark: 1 of 2

In my quest for the perfect bookmark, I took it upon myself to create something I would love. Join me for this two-part series in which I’ll detail what went right, what could have gone better, and my general search for bookmark Nirvana.

Attempt 1:

I began my journey simply: create an attractive, functional bookmark using washi tape I love and ephemera I already own. After a (decidedly longer than necessary) period of deciding which tapes matched what decorations, I assembled my basic supplies:

• Washi Tape (I used 2 rolls for this bookmark; use however many makes you happy!)
• Ephemera Decorations (Again, 2 pieces here but do not let that limit you.)
• Cardstock
• Scissors/Cutting Implements
• Adhesive (I used a tape runner, but regular tape or glue could work fine)
• Lamination Supplies (optional)

Creating a Washi Tape Bookmark

I settled on a size of 2” by 6” and cut a piece from my cardstock to that size.

In my previous washi tape craft endeavors, I have learned that wrapping washi tape around things, while not impossible, is more difficult and time consuming than I cared to invest in this simple project. So I decided to just make a one-sided bookmark for my first go-round, alternating my tapes on the diagonal.

When I had covered the entire front of my bookmark in tape I used a rotary cutter and mat to trim the excess washi tape edges. Here I found that trimming a very minor edge from the cardstock to support the washi tape was much easier and more effective than just trying to trim the washi tape to the existing edge.

I attached my ephemera using my tape runner, then sat back to admire my work. After about 2 minutes, however, I realized I wanted to seal the whole thing down and went ahead and ran it through my laminator. This step is totally optional and – if I had made this decision at the beginning – I probably would not have felt the need to use sturdy cardstock since the lamination itself adds some rigidity.

What I Learned from Washi Tape Bookmark #1

My end result was a beautiful bookmark… that was blank on the back. Nothing technically wrong with it, but felt a little unfinished. Now, if I were giving this as I gift I could have written a short, sweet note on the bookmark prior to laminating and that would have added a great personal touch! I will certainly try that at some point.

Look out for my next blog on how I decided to try a double-sided washi tape bookmark without the “tape wrapping” headache.

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