Got a drawer overflowing with fabric scraps you can’t bear to toss? Same here. Those little leftover pieces feel too pretty to throw away, but too small to actually sew with. So they pile up.
Here’s my favorite fix: turn them into fabric washi tape. It’s quick, ridiculously easy, and uses up even the tiniest scraps. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly how to make your own stash of decorative fabric strips with just two simple things you probably already own.
Why I adore this project:
- You only need fabric scraps and double-sided tape.
- The whole project takes minutes, not hours. (Which is great for me as a busy mom!)
- It’s beginner-friendly with zero sewing required.
- You can use it for memory keeping, journaling, gift wrap, so many things!
What Is Fabric Washi Tape?
You’ve probably seen washi tape before. It’s that pretty decorative tape crafters love for journals, gift wrap, and DIY projects. Fabric washi tape is the homemade, textured cousin of that.
Instead of paper, you use your own fabric scraps. The result is a flexible strip of fabric with a sticky back, ready to press onto almost anything. It’s not technically washi tape, but it is seriously so cute. Which is basically the same thing, right?
Why This Project Is Such a Great Way to use Fabric Scraps
Fabric scraps are tricky. They’re often too small to quilt with and too lovely to discard. This project solves that problem in the easiest way, and it’s so satisfying.
Some reasons to get obsessed:
- Zero waste: even pieces the size of a postage stamp work.
- No sewing machine needed: great for total beginners.
- Endless uses: decorate cards, planners, gift boxes, scrapbook pages, and more.
- Cheap and fast: double-sided tape is inexpensive, and the process takes minutes.
Once you make a batch, you’ll find yourself reaching for these little fabric strips all the time. Trust me, you’ll end up with tons of them. Which…might just be a new problem in and of itself. LOL
What You’ll Need
- Fabric scraps (any size, pattern, or color)
- Double-sided tape (a wide roll works best)
- Scissors (sharp ones make clean edges)
How to Make Washi Tape Out of Scrap Fabric
Ready to make your first strip? Follow these three easy steps.
Step 1: Apply the Fabric
Roll out a piece of double-sided tape, but keep one protective side covered for now. Press your fabric scrap, right side up, onto the sticky side of the tape. I found it helped at first to roll out shorter pieces so that I could get it straight!
When you’re first starting out, striped fabric scraps could be your friend here because it gives you a line to follow so it’s straight.
Smooth it down gently with your fingers so there are no bubbles or wrinkles. The fabric should stick firmly to the tape.
Step 2: Cut Around It
Now grab your scissors and trim around the tape edges. This removes any extra fabric hanging off the sides and gives you a clean, neat strip.
Step 3: Peel and Use
When you’re ready to use your strip, peel off the remaining backing to reveal the sticky side. Press it onto whatever you’re decorating.
And that’s your finished fabric tape! Make a few at once so you always have some on hand.
Tips for the Best Results
Want your fabric washi tape to look its best? Keep these quick pointers in mind.
- Use thin fabrics like cotton. They stick better and stay flexible.
- Press firmly so the fabric bonds fully to the tape.
- Mix your patterns for a fun, varied collection.
- Store flat to keep the strips from sticking to themselves.
If a strip loses its stickiness over time, just add a fresh layer of double-sided tape to the back. Good as new.
Fun Ways to Use Your Fabric Tape
- Decorate the edges of greeting cards
- Add texture to scrapbook and journal pages
- Wrap small gifts with a handmade touch
- Label jars, boxes, or storage bins
- Brighten up plain notebooks and planners
Wrap-Up
This is the kind of project that feels almost too easy, yet you’ll keep coming back to it. It’s almost meditative, and can be done while watching your favorite show or listening to an audiobook. So go dig through that scrap stash, and give it a try! Don’t forget to come let me know how it goes!