last-minute washi tape valentines (for the young at heart)

Do you guys know about washi tape? I started noticing some projects pop up on Pinterest last fall and being the craft supply hoarder that I am, I had to get my hands some ASAP. Washi tape, in case you are still in the dark like I was, is a thin, decorative masking tape that looks like this.

It works really well to tack up photos/art instead of framing and is great for gift wrapping too. All major creative supplies stores like Michael's, DeSerres sell it and many small, local craft shops too. It should come as no surprise that it originated in Japan - every cute fad was big in Japan 5 years before it ever became cool in North America. Proof? Hello Kitty, maxi skirts, Harajuku style, bows. Case in point. On to the Valentines!

Most of you probably stopped giving them out years ago, you know, like, when you started grade six. I did too actually, but I made some on a whim last year to mail to a few university friends who I missed. This year, I got the itch again. D's niece and nephew were also coming to visit so I wanted to be able to give them a little something for the holiday. Here they are:

These are super-easy to make. All you need is washi tape, cardstock & pens. 1. Trace around a business card to make your base. 2. Press down a strip (or two!) of tape. 3. Write a lovey message. 

That's seriously all there is to it! These probably took no more than 5-10 minutes to make. The hardest part is deciding what to write on them. Once you get into a rhythm, it's easy to make a bunch at once. I think they'd be great for kids to bring to school or you could give them to your neighbours. These ones will be going to my co-workers - shhh! Don't tell.

Do any of you still give out Valentines or make a special card for your loved one? Got any washi tape projects for me to check out? Let me know!

xx Janelle

PS - I took these photos at night, which explains the laughable white balance. Forgive me! It's winter and it gets dark before I even get home...