Washi masking tape is a decorative, multipurpose masking tape that comes in an array of brightly-colored patterns. It is often used for papercraft projects, such as bookbinding, scrapbooking or journaling, but there are many other creative ways to use it around the home. The joyful patterns and colors of washi tape nod to traditional washi paper, which has existed in Japan for centuries, where it is used for origami and in Japanese screens and lamps.