Hello Thursday -- Home Dec....Washi Style

I've got a quick project to share today.

I had a free standing cabinet in my kitchen which we recently decided to move out to allow some more space.  When we moved it, we discovered that this light switch we we used all the time was hideous. Hmmm, hadn't really noticed that before.  It was disguised by the cabinet!

Egads!  What shall we do with this hideous thing?

I know, Washi to the rescue!!!  Yes, I've aquired a pretty spectacular stash of Freckled Fawn Washi tape and it was time to put it to some good use. (I can include my washi purchase in the Home Decor budget!!! Bonus!)

I thought I'd share how I did it.

Start by unscrewing your switch-plate from the wall.  You'll want to wash and dry it to get a nice clean surface for the tape to adhere to.

Once it is dry, simply start adding strips of tape.  I covered the whole surface, then went back and added shorter pieces to give it a more random, urban style look.  You can do this with lots of colors or keep it monochromatic, or even use only one tape, depending on your décor. 

My house happens to literally have 8 different bright colors on the wall, Mexico style! So this random bright look works perfectly in my home.

Next, you need to trim out the tape that is in front of the switch holes.  Simply flip the cover plate over, so it is resting on it’s tape side.  Using an Exacto knife and a self-healing matt, cut away only the area of tape in front of those tiny windows. 

When you turn it over, you can lift the edge of the cut out piece with the end of the Exacto knife.  You may need to use the knife from the front to finish the cuts.  Make sure you use a nice, sharp knife to do this so you don’t end up cutting into any more of your tape.

It should look like this:

Finally, shove the screws right through the tape from the top, you can start it with a piercing tool if you need to.  Screw back into place and Voila!!!

This technique can be use on all of your switch-plates, including outlets if you like!  I have to say that every time I walk by this wall now, I smile. What could be better than more space and lovely bright washi goodness!?  Experiment with it and have fun!