Washi Tape Sizes Explained: Which Width Should You Use?
Washi tape width changes how a design behaves on the page. A narrow strip can mark a line without hiding your writing, while a wider roll can create a border or become the main decorative layer. This practical size guide helps you choose a width for journals, planners, scrapbooks, and small gifts.
Once you have picked a width, use it in a real spread with our guide to using washi tape in a journal.
Quick washi tape width guide
| Width | Best for | What to watch |
|---|---|---|
| 3–5 mm | Fine dividers, calendars, color coding, small tabs | Can disappear on large pages |
| 8–10 mm | Headers, compact planners, layered borders | May need two strips for a strong focal area |
| 15 mm | General journaling, page borders, sealing tissue or small parcels | Can cover several lines in a pocket notebook |
| 20 mm | Illustrated scenery, scrapbook edges, statement headers | Plan placement before writing |
| 25–50 mm | Large motifs, collage backgrounds, cards, packaging | Uses space quickly on A6 and B7 pages |
What is the most versatile washi tape size?
For a first roll, 15 mm is the flexible middle ground: narrow enough for many journals and wide enough to show a repeating design. Choose 20 mm when the illustration itself matters, especially for botanical landscapes, large borders, and scrapbook scenes. A mixed-width set is useful if you often layer tape.
How to choose a width by project
For planners and calendars
Use 3–5 mm tape to divide columns, mark recurring tasks, or create a color key. It leaves more writing space visible. An 8–10 mm strip works for weekly headers and page edges.
For journals
A 15 mm roll works for corners, borders, and attaching small paper pieces. On a compact page, tear it lengthwise for a lighter look. Use a 20 mm scenic design as a lower border or one focal strip rather than covering every edge.
For scrapbooks and collage
Wider tape gives enough printed area to read as an image. Use 20–50 mm tape behind photos or torn papers, then add narrow strips to connect the composition. Test delicate paper before lifting and repositioning tape.
For gift wrapping
Fifteen- or 20-mm tape is visible on small boxes and envelopes without overwhelming them. For more applications, see our washi tape gift-wrapping ideas.
A 20 mm example for illustrated borders
The Floral Scenery Botanical Washi Tape (20mm x 2m) has a 20 mm illustrated surface, so a single strip can form a complete border. It is currently available in six botanical designs. Explore more widths and finishes in the Stickers & Washi Tapes collection.
Three ways to make any width more useful
- Tear lengthwise: Turn a medium roll into two irregular narrow strips.
- Overlap by a few millimeters: Combine narrow rolls into a custom band.
- Make a swatch index: Record width, design, and a sample in a small notebook using our washi tape swatch-book method.
FAQ
Is 15 mm or 20 mm washi tape better?
Choose 15 mm for general-purpose journaling and 20 mm for illustrated borders or a stronger visual element. Neither is universally better.
Can wide washi tape be used in a small planner?
Yes. Use a short piece as a tab, cut out individual motifs, or tear the strip lengthwise so it does not take over the page.
Does the roll length matter?
Yes. Width tells you how much page area the tape covers; length tells you how many projects the roll can support. Compare both measurements before buying.