Is Washi Tape Expensive? Is It Worth Buying?

 

Updates: Instead of stating the exact price or changing the price below, it’s best to leave as it is to illustrate the point.  There are so many different types and brands nowadays from big companies to independent artists.  The prices indeed vary.

The prices that I mentioned below especially for mt brands are not the same anymore.  It’s about MYR8.00 per roll (approx. US$1.90).  It can be more or less for different sellers.

 

---

 

Is washi tape really that expensive?  Is it even worth buying?

But, why is it expensive in the first place?

This article contains affiliate links.  Please read my disclosure for more info.

 

What makes you think that it’s expensive?

Some called it expensive tape.

Is it because it’s just a small roll and it’s not worth a higher price?

I came to know that quite a several people mentioning the high price tag for just a small roll.  To pay for that kind of price, you could have bought a nice cup of coffee, a simple lunch, a movie ticket or even a new wallet.

Why do you need to buy masking tape especially if you don’t know how to use it?  It could be a waste of money!

I feel the same at first.

It’s kind of pricey for just a small roll.  I still remembered when I first saw such a little tape and the price was MYR6.50 (approx. US$2.  It may not be much for US$2 but here we can have a meal.)  I could have just ignored it and looked for a different tape like cellophane tape which is less expensive.

I bought it at the end because the picture is something I absolutely love…music notes.

It’s not branded.  It’s all because of the picture.  I have no idea how to use or what to do with it.  All I knew it’s something new to me and I’m sure I’ll find a way to use or stick.

I bought a few more after this.  Subsequently, my cousin bought it even more than me.  Our collection grew quite exponentially within a short period!

Read on to find out why it’s worth purchasing and collecting washi tapes.

If the washi tape is “unbranded”, the price is usually cheaper.  Quality will be different as well depending on the manufacturer and where you get them from.

Sometimes low price tags can also be smaller rolls and shorter lengths like about 3m per roll (approx. 118 inches).

This is certainly not always the case.

I once bought an imported decorative tape which costs MYR19.90 (approx. US$6.20).  The problem was I only knew the price after paying.  I was like… “Wow, it’s quite expensive.”  The quality is just average and the adhesive is not strong enough.

Prices of decorative tapes vary due to the:

• Size / length
• Design
• Material
• Texture
• Adhesive
• Manufacturer

 

It’s worth getting because of…

Reason #1

Let’s take a look at our online store, the price range started from MYR6.30 to MYR40 for a single roll (approx. US$2 to US$12).  The common size for a roll is 15mm (width) x 10m (length).  The dimension usually hovers within 45mm to 50mm (except some special ones).

Let’s take a closer look at Rose Garden Washi Tape below…

10m = MYR6.30 (about US$2)
Note: This item is no longer available.

It works out to
1m = MYR0.63 (about US$0.20)

 

For a well-known Japanese brand mt masking tape, the lowest in our region is for instance,

mt 1P Basic Salmon Pink

10m = MYR6.50 (about US$1.80)

1m = MYR0.65 (about US$0.20)

 

Since 1m = 100cm (or 39 inches / 3.3 ft), therefore what can you do with such length?

Do quite many bookmarks, gift cards, greeting cards etc to share with family and friends.  You can also create a few more projects.

Let’s say you plan to make a bookmark for a friend or swap with someone.  You give one meter for three different types; the cost is just MYR1.89 (about US$0.60).

So, is this considered cheap?

 

Reason #2

Unlike perishable goods, there’s no expiry date.  I do see expiry dates on certain decorative adhesive tapes.  Not very sure why but my guess could be the adhesive.

It might dry up over time.  It’s best to store them away in a container after use.  You will then be able to keep them for as long as you want.

 

Reason #3

No glue required.  Washi tape is handy if you want to stick something quick and easy.  You can tape your picture or memo easily on the board, wall or diary.  You can remove and reposition it as well.

 

Reason #4

You can find lots of attractive pictures on masking tapes.  You can always find something to learn if you see close enough.  For instance, it could be from drawing, painting, coloring, materials, texture, design etc.

 

Reason #5

Last but not least, it’s easy to use.  If you are new to crafting, why not make some cards using washi tapes?  The simplest way is just cardstock, paper (especially those are ready-made or pre-scored) and deco tapes.  No need glue and scissors!

 

Here’s an example of mt art tape (10 pcs per set), the new addition, costs around MYR110 (approx. US$25).  It’s pretty expensive, isn’t it?

 

However, it costs MYR11 (approx. US$2.50) for 1 piece.  Now it seems reasonable right?

 

All in all, it’s worth buying and trying out washi tapes in my opinion.  It’s fine if you don’t agree with me.  Art supplies and equipment are always not very cheap after all.

I’m hoping to share what I know because I feel the same in the beginning as to why these tiny tapes are pricey.

On the other hand, if I were to compare with a roll of ribbon, it could be more costly.  Plus, an additional item like glue is needed if you were to stick on the surface.

Anyway, most importantly, if you decide to splurge, then find a way to use it.  If you prefer to collect it, it’s alright too.  Whether it’s expensive or not, ultimately it depends on your interest, decision and affordability.

 

Note: Prices may vary due to various factors.  But the fundamental is still there.  Speaking of money, sometimes it’s kinda sensitive.  Some might think it’s cheap while some might say it’s reasonable.  Some might say it’s way too expensive and of no use.  All of us can have our thought.  You purchase it because you like it, you believe it’s worth the price and you are going to use it to make some personalized gifts for yourself and others.

 

— Product List —
You may choose to purchase from our Lovingcottage store.  Or buy from Amazon and/or other affiliate partners. Here’s my affiliate disclosure for more info.  Please note that some items are the same while some are not exactly the same but related and/or complement.

Find out more about mt tapes here.

View more about other types of decorative washi tapes here.

 

 

Read more articles here:

       

 

 

 

Related Article:
Free Resources Introduction