Kids’ artwork is full of authenticity and joy, but sometimes a simple crayon drawing can feel unfinished when hung on the wall.
That’s where creative tools like washi tape and mats come in.
These inexpensive, colorful, and easy-to-use materials can instantly elevate simple pieces, giving them polish while preserving their charm.
Whether you’re prepping art for a gallery wall, a photo book, or a special gift, using washi tape and mats will make even the most modest drawings feel celebrated.
Why Use Washi Tape for Kids’ Art
Washi tape is a decorative Japanese masking tape made from natural fibers.
It comes in endless patterns and colors, and it’s gentle on paper, making it perfect for children’s art. Use washi tape to:
- Create playful borders around drawings
- Attach artwork without damaging it
- Add color accents that complement the art
- Design themed layouts (rainbow days, animals, seasons)
Because washi tape is inexpensive and repositionable, kids can help design their own frames or borders, turning decorating into a fun, creative project.
How Mats Make Artwork Look Professional
A mat is the paper or board placed between the artwork and the frame. Mats:
- Add visual space around the image
- Make small drawings look more intentional
- Protect art from touching glass
- Give a polished, gallery-quality finish
For simple drawings, neutral mats (white, cream, light gray) keep focus on the art, while colored mats can accentuate themes or hues within the image.
Combining Washi Tape and Mats Creatively
Together, washi tape and mats are a powerful duo. Here are fun ways to use them:
- Frame within a frame: Add washi tape around a matted drawing to create a patterned double border.
- Color collections: Match one washi tape color to a mat to create a cohesive themed series.
- Interactive displays: Let kids rotate washi tape designs based on seasonal themes or moods.
These techniques transform simple art into playful displays that look intentional and modern.
Tips for Displaying Tape-and-Mat Enhanced Art
When showcasing washi tape and mat-enhanced drawings:
- Stick to lightweight frames so tape doesn’t lift corners
- Use acid-free mats to protect long-term quality
- Keep art out of direct sunlight to protect colors
- Rotate displays to keep walls fresh and inspiring
This quick prep also makes framing easier; your art is ready for gallery wall layouts or themed displays.
Five Amazon Products That Help You Elevate Kids’ Art
Here are some products that make decorating and displaying kids’ artwork fun and stylish:
Decorative Washi Tape Set: Variety pack of colorful and patterned washi tapes.
Perfect for adding fun borders and accents to drawings.
55 rolls of bohemian-style cute washi tape set; each roll features an exclusive design with a colorful, dreamy pattern of fruits, flowers, ice cream, stripes, donuts, and blossoms.
Acid-Free Mat Boards (Set of 10): Assorted neutral mats for multiple frame sizes.
Great for giving drawings a polished, gallery look.
The backing boards are made of thick, durable cardboard that won't bend or break easily. Internal 4-ply thickness sheets ensure stability.
Washi Tape Dispenser & Cutter: Easy-use tape dispenser for neat application.
Makes crafting cleaner and more fun for kids.
The cutter comes in two sizes, with two jagged edges that are rough enough to tear tape without harming fingers; safe for children who love arts and crafts. You can choose them according to your needs.
Kids Art Frame with Mat: Front-opening frame with built-in mat.
Ideal for ready-to-hang displays with mat support.
With a white front opening design, you can easily swap out and showcase different pieces while keeping them protected from dust and damage.
Adjustable Craft Cutting Mat: Self-healing cutting mat for precise mat trimming.
Helpful for custom mat sizes and projects.
The self-healing cutting mat protects your work surface. Compatible with rotary cutters and straight blades, won't hurt the cutter blade, and keeps the blade sharp.
Using washi tape and mats to elevate simple drawings turns artwork into dynamic displays.
These tools make framing approachable, creative, and kid-friendly, helping children see their work as something worthy of the spotlight.