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If you are looking up ideas for decorating plastic bins, you will find that a lot of ideas involve attaching contact paper, wallpaper or other beautiful paper to the inside of the containers so that the colors and patterns show through the clear plastic. Some tutorials advise that you use tape, while others advise that you use Mod Podge (which is an all-in-one sealer, glue and finish). So if you want to effectively decorate plastic storage bins, which should you go with and why?

Well, there is no plain and simple answer to this question. Perhaps the shortest answer would be, “Either—just go with whatever is convenient.” But there are some pros and cons to both methods.

If you are using tape to decorate plastic containers, you will find that it is a more forgiving method than using Mod Podge. If you apply the Mod Podge unevenly, it will show. You will end up for example with strange light and dark patches, whereas with tape, you are not going to have that effect. So if you do not have a lot of experience with Mod Podge and you make mistakes (which you probably will), you will most likely be able to see them plainly with the finished result.

So taping is obviously easier, and less likely to show your inexperience if you are a newbie. But what are its disadvantages? Unlike Mod Podge, it is not a finish or a sealer. So you may end up with a less finished look at the end than you would get with the Mod Podge, and you also will not be protecting the paper in your bins from humidity or other wear and tear.

A third alternative would be to start by laminating your scrapbook paper, and then apply the scrapbook paper to the inside of your clear plastic storage containers using tape. This is a great method because the laminating provides the finishing and protection you would get from the Mod Podge, but you don’t have to worry about mistakes with the application which result in an uneven finish at the end. You can then just go with the simple taping method which is ideal for beginners.

Ultimately, over the long run, I do recommend that you start using Mod Podge. You will find that it is great not only for this method of decorating plastic storage totes, but others as well. For example, you can use it to decoupage your bins, something you definitely cannot do using tape. Plus, Mod Podge is useful for a wide variety of other crafts. Once you start using it, you will see why it is one of the most popular craft supplies in existence. Eventually you will get to be a pro with it, and then all of your projects will have a very professional look when they are completed.

Hopefully this discussion of Mod Podge vs. tape for decorating plastic bins has helped you to figure out how you will approach your next DIY project. Have fun beautifying your plastic storage containers!