In my library career, I’ve had the awesome opportunity to incorporate my craft life in a few different ways. Most notably, I get to design DIYs for my teens on a regular basis, and I’ve also been in charge of selecting craft books for a couple of my libraries’ collections. That means getting to pick out which titles get bought, cataloged and put on our shelves for people to check out and DIY with at home. It’s pretty fun! So when I was contacted about reviewing a book full of washi tape crafts, I was excited – I’ve always wanted the chance to review craft books on Hands Occupied!
The book I got my hands on is Washi Wonderful by Jenny Doh (with project contributions by Ishtar Olivera Belart, Carolyn Garris, Avital Gertner-Samet, Cynthia Shaffer & Anne Stills), and it retails for $19.95, but right now it’s marked down to about $13 on Amazon. It’s a book all about different ideas for craft projects you can do with washi tape.
The pros
Washi Wonderful is divided into 5 main sections: the basics [of washi tape], cards, gift wrap, party decor, and washi fun. All of the projects included are very on trend and beautifully photographed. This book is ideal for beginners and for those who love party-related crafting (decor, gift-giving, etc.).
The book opens with a bit about the short history of the paper tape that’s taken the world by storm, and an overview of a few recommended techniques used for the projects in the book. The history was fascinating (I learned a lot!), and the techniques overview was full of great tips for first time washi tape crafters.
I have to say that the design of the book itself was really awesome. Every page is edged or accented in some way with washi tape-inspired graphics, the fonts used are very of-the-moment, and the consistent color palette of the book made me happy.
The gift wrap section is my favorite. The ideas for how to embellish presents with fringe, tassels, layered tape, cards, and really cool gift toppers were all super cute and modern. Many of the projects pictured in Washi Wonderful featured beige shipping tags in lovely, clever ways that will have me inspired for years of gift wrapping to come.
My favorite project in the book
Aren’t these wooden stick dolls the cutest? Found in the gift wrap section, they take plain wooden ice cream spoons and make them over into the cutest little dolls that can be customized in almost limitless ways! They use a combo of paint, washi tape and ink pens to dress up the sticks. I’m going to make an army (or menagerie) of these buddies to stick up all over the house!
The cons
Overall, there’s very little negative to say about this book. It’s so well photographed and laid out! I can’t emphasize how much the author and contributors really captured the kind of DIY that’s on trend right now in the spring of 2014. My only critique is that the projects are very easy. I’d get this book for friends who don’t DIY on the daily. For seasoned crafters, this book might not feature challenging enough projects to sate their practiced hands. However, this book is absolutely on my to-buy list for friends who are casual crafters and photography lovers! I also think this is a great pick for DIY designers because I was really inspired by the techniques used to make a really spectacular impact with washi tape.
But you don’t have to take my word for it…
Great news! You can win a copy of Washi Wonderful to get inspired for yourself.
The giveaway is open to the United States & Canada only.
I received a review copy of the book in exchange for my review. Opinions expressed are entirely my own.
I love sprucing up Birthday cards etc!
I have used washi tape for cards and jounals – would love to recieve this book for more ideas!
I make cards and use washi to cover cut out shapes (or cover the paper and then punch or cut out the shapes). Stripy clouds, pattern hearts, etc…so fun!
Looks like a great book!
I haven’t ever used washi tape which is why I want the book. :)
I’ve never used washi tape before, but I’d like too! Some of the ideas from the book look fun.
The book looks so cute, I would love to win! Thanks so much for the chance! I am (a little) obsessed with washi tape..can’t stop making projects with it, lol :)
You and me both!! ;)
Starting in the fall, I’ll be the librarian at my middle school. I’m planning on having after-school crafting sessions. I have some washi tape that I’ve used on envelopes and to embellish pages of a notebook. This book looks like it’d give me some great ideas to use with my students. Thanks for the heads up!
Hey! I’m a librarian by day too :) – BTW, I have had great luck using washi tape for displays, like this: http://instagram.com/p/kXzbLfktDc/
http://instagram.com/p/ifBQEsktB0/
A new book that sounds just right for our crafting community!
I actually love putting it on my mantel edge to coordinate with holidays! :)
I like to use it for cardmaking.
I love to use it to wrap embroidery hoops to make them prettier for displaying my embroidery!
Those popsicle dolls are adorable! What a fun book!