A Guide To Junk Journaling
If you’ve ever wanted to turn your stationery stash, ticket stubs, and random scraps of paper into a masterpiece, welcome to the wonderful world of junk journaling! Unlike scrapbooking—which leans toward polished layouts and curated materials—junk journaling thrives on a bit of chaos, using anything from ticket stubs to recycled scraps for a free-spirited, no-rules sort of vibe.
Let’s dive into the why and how of junk journaling, plus sprinkle in some tips to get you started on your own junk journaling journey.
What Is Junk Journaling?
Junk journaling is a creative journaling style where anything goes. Got old receipts, washi tape, or that postcard your pen pal sent from Paris? Toss it in! It’s all about layering papers, doodling, stamping, or slapping on stickers to create pages that make your heart sing.
Unlike traditional journaling, junk journaling isn’t about pristine layouts or picture-perfect spreads. It’s about celebrating the chaos of your creativity. The more eclectic, the better!
Why Start Junk Journaling?
Stress Relief: There’s something wildly satisfying about tearing paper and gluing things down with zero rules. It’s like therapy, but cheaper.
Preserve Your Memories: Turn mundane everyday things—like coffee sleeves or concert tickets—into works of art. Using everyday items in a junk journal spread makes things seem so much more fun and interesting.
It’s Eco-Friendly: It’s called junk journaling for a reason. Repurpose old magazines, packaging, and scraps instead of tossing them out. Mother Earth approves. 🌍
What You Need to Get Started With Junk Journaling
Here are some basic tools you need to get started on your junk journaling journey:
A Journal: Any notebook will do! Fancy leather-bound? Cool. Dollar store special? Even better!
Paper Scraps: Wrapping paper, envelopes, receipts—you name it.
Adhesives: Glue sticks, double-sided tape, or washi tape for days.
Decorations: Stickers, stamps, photos, and anything else that makes you smile.
Pens and Markers: Doodle, write, or scribble your deepest (or most random) thoughts.
How to Junk Journal Like a Pro
Everyone likes to journal in different ways, but here are a few ways to get started with junk journaling:
Pick a Theme: Not mandatory, but fun! Think “summer memories,” “travel adventures,” or even “random stuff I found in my junk drawer.” You can even google themes or prompts to get started.
Layer It Up: Start with a base—like a pretty piece of paper or an old map. I prefer to use neutral colours or patterns, then layer smaller scraps, photos, and stickers on top. Play around until it looks just right (but don’t worry too much about this part!).
Add the Extras: Use stamps, stencils, stickers, or your own doodles to tie everything together. No pressure—junk journaling is about having fun.
Write Something: Whether it’s a quote, a date, or a cheeky note to your future self, sprinkle in a little text to make it personal.
Tips for Maximum Junk Journaling Vibes
Don’t Overthink It: Seriously. All that matters is that it makes you happy.
Use What You Have: Junk journaling thrives on randomness. Raid your recycling bin or that drawer of ‘I might need this someday’ stuff.
Inspire Yourself: Follow hashtags like #JunkJournal or browse Pinterest for ideas. (Just don’t fall into a 3-hour pinning rabbit hole!)
Let’s Get Junky!
Junk journaling is the perfect way to let your creative chaos run wild. It’s low-pressure, endlessly fun and unique to you. So grab your scissors, hoard some scraps, and start gluing your heart out. Your life may not be perfect, but your journal can be the messy, artsy proof that you’re making something beautiful out of it.
