What is the Difference Between Washi and PET Tape

Washi and PET tapes are two types of decorative tapes used for crafts, journaling, scrapbooking, and DIY projects. They come in a wide variety of patterns, colors, and designs. However, Washi is not the same as PET tape.

What is the difference between Washi and PET tape? Washi tape is made from soft, traditional Japanese paper and has a matte finish, while PET tape is made from clear, durable plastic and has a glossy look.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Washi Tape
     – Definition, Features
2. What is PET Tape
     – Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Washi and PET Tape
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Washi and PET Tape
     – Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: Washi and PET Tape
     – Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Key Terms

Washi Tape, PET Tape, Journaling

What is Washi Tape

Washi tape is a decorative crafting tape that originated in Japan in 2006. Before its creation, crafters mostly used plain masking tape for their projects, but wanted something more colorful and creative. To meet this need, a company introduced a special type of masking tape with beautiful patterns and designs, which quickly became known as washi tape. Since then, it has become a favorite material in the crafting world because it is durable, easy to reposition, and perfect for endless creative ideas.

The word “washi” means “Japanese paper.” Washi paper is different from Western paper because it is lighter, softer, and more delicate. Traditionally, washi paper is made through a slow, detailed process. Natural fibers are carefully taken from local plants, most commonly the Paper Mulberry plant, and processed into a pulp. This pulp is then formed into thin sheets of paper, often decorated with gold leaf, bright colors, and intricate designs. Moreover, these traditional papers inspired the modern look of washi tape.

Today, washi tape comes in thousands of designs and colors. There are tapes with floral prints, geometric patterns, foiled accents, holiday themes, popular characters, and even tiny reproductions of famous artworks.

What is PET Tape

PET tape is a type of decorative tape similar to washi tape, but instead of being made from paper, it is made from PET plastic. This gives it a smooth, shiny finish and makes it transparent. This is great for layering designs without covering up the background completely.

One special feature of PET tape is its backing release sheet. This allows you to cut out shapes and use the pieces like stickers, or you can apply them as a regular tape strip. This makes PET tape very versatile for crafting, decorating, and journaling.

Unlike paper-based tapes, PET tape is water-resistant and more durable, so it won’t easily tear or wear out. It also comes in brighter and more vivid colors.

Similarities Between Washi and PET Tape

1. Both are decorative tapes used for crafts, journaling, scrapbooking, and DIY projects.
2. They come in a wide variety of patterns, colors, and designs.
3. They are easy to apply and remove without leaving sticky residue on most surfaces.

Difference Between Washi and PET Tape

Definition

• Washi tape is a decorative, paper-based tape made from traditional Japanese paper, whereas PET tape is a clear, plastic-based decorative tape that is water-resistant and often used for layering or cutting into sticker shapes.

Material

• Washi tape is made from traditional Japanese paper, whereas PET tape is made from plastic (PET).

Transparency

• Washi tape is usually opaque or semi-transparent, so it slightly covers the surface beneath it, whereas PET tape is clear and fully transparent.

Durability

• Washi tape is lightweight and delicate, and can tear easily by hand, but PET tape is stronger, water-resistant, and wear-resistant, so it lasts longer.

Colors and Designs

• Washi tape has soft, natural colors and patterns, often with a matte look, whereas PET tape comes in brighter, more vivid colors and often has a glossy finish.

Backing Sheet

• Washi tape usually comes on a roll without a backing sheet. However, PET tape often has a release backing sheet, so you can cut out shapes and use them like stickers.

FAQ: Washi and PET Tape

1. What is so special about washi tape?

Washi tape is made from traditional Japanese paper using natural fibers like hemp or mulberry. It has a unique texture and comes in a wide variety of beautiful designs.

2. What does pet stand for in washi tape?

In washi tape, PET stands for Polyethylene Terephthalate, which is a type of plastic used to make clear, durable, and water-resistant decorative tapes.

3. What is a good substitute for washi tape?

A good substitute for washi tape is masking tape or decorative stickers, as they are easy to use, removable, and can add color and patterns to crafts or decorations.

4. How do you remove pet tape?

To remove PET tape, peel it off slowly and gently from one corner to avoid tearing or leaving residue. If it sticks, warm it slightly with a hair dryer to loosen the adhesive.

Reference:

1. “What Is Washi Tape and What Can You Use It For?” AlteNew.

2. “What is washi tape? What is PET-tape?” Joanna Studio.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Gamme Washi Tape” By Emile contributor – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia