Washi Tape Craft Ideas for Holiday Cards
By Paper Wilderness loves you! | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: How-to Guides
Get festive with washi tape craft ideas for holiday cards. Learn how to decorate cards and envelopes with easy, removable tape designs.
Quick answer
Use washi tape to create festive holiday cards by making borders, layering strips, and adding simple die-cut shapes. Start with a 15mm tape for fine details and a 30mm tape for bold statements.
Why washi tape works for holiday cards
Washi tape is a low-commitment embellishment: it sticks firmly but can be repositioned, so you can fix mistakes without ruining your card. It also works on envelopes, which makes your whole mailing feel cohesive.
The main trade-off is width. A 15mm tape is great for thin borders and small accents, while a 30mm tape covers more area and creates a bolder look. Choose based on the card size and the effect you want.
Steps to decorate holiday cards with washi tape
- Choose your tape width: Select a 15mm tape for delicate borders or a 30mm tape for a wider statement. For example, use the 15mm Meowy Christmas tape for a subtle cat-themed edge, or the 30mm Holiday Feels tape for a bold candy cane stripe. Test the tape on a scrap paper first to see how it looks against your card color.
- Plan your design: Lay the tape strips on a flat surface without sticking them. Decide if you want a border, a corner accent, or a full background. For a border, place the tape along the edge; for a background, cover the entire front with parallel strips. Measure the card and cut tape strips slightly longer than needed, then trim after sticking.
- Apply the tape: Peel a small section and press it down, then gradually smooth the rest to avoid bubbles. If you make a mistake, gently lift and reposition—washi tape is removable. Use a bone folder or your fingernail to press down edges so they stay flat.
- Add layered accents: Cut small shapes like triangles, stars, or hearts from washi tape and layer them on the card. For a festive look, create a Christmas tree by layering green tape triangles on a 30mm tape background. Stick the tape to a non-stick surface, cut the shape, then peel and place it—this prevents the tape from curling.
- Finish and mail: Once your design is set, write your message inside and seal the envelope. For a cohesive look, add a small washi strip to the envelope flap. Check that the tape does not cover any important text or postage area on the envelope.
Tapes that fit the project
- Meowy Christmas Holiday Cats 15mm Washi Tape: This 15mm holiday tape features cats from the Meowy Christmas card design. The narrow width is perfect for adding a subtle festive border or small accents without overwhelming the card.

Meowy Christmas Holiday Cats 15mm Washi Tape - Holiday Feels 30mm Washi Tape: This 30mm tape is twice as wide as the usual roll and features holiday objects like snowmen, candy canes, and hot cocoa. The wide tape covers more surface, making it ideal for creating a bold background strip or a quick, full-coverage design.

Holiday Feels 30mm Washi Tape

