What is Junk Journaling?

 

Junk Journaling for Beginners

Start Creating with What You Have!

So, you’ve stumbled across junk journaling and thought, “That looks fun, but where do I even start?” Maybe you’ve seen beautifully layered pages online and felt overwhelmed. Don’t worry—you’re in the right place!

Junk journaling is all about creativity, not perfection. The best part? You don’t need fancy supplies or expensive materials. You can start with what you already have!

What is a Junk Journal?

A junk journal is a handmade book filled with papers, scraps, and odds and ends you love. Think old book pages, receipts, envelopes, magazine clippings, or that pretty tissue paper you almost threw away. It’s a mix of journaling, scrapbooking, and creative chaos.

People call them all sorts of names, including:

• Junk Journals – because they’re made from repurposed materials.
• Glue Books – if you love sticking things down without much writing.
• Art Journals – for those who mix in paint, stamps, and doodles.
• Smash Books – if you like a messy, anything-goes style.
• Creative Journals – because, well, they’re all about creativity!

No matter what you call them, they all serve the same purpose—creative expression!

Why Start Junk Journaling?

• No rules! You create however you want.
• Eco-friendly. It’s a great way to repurpose paper and materials.
• Stress relief. Playing with paper, glue, and colors is therapeutic.
• Creative outlet. No artistic skills required—just a willingness to experiment!

How to Start Your First Junk Journal

1. Gather supplies. Look around your house! Grab paper bags, old cards, wrapping paper, receipts, or anything with an interesting texture or pattern.
2. Choose a base. A notebook, an old book, or even folded cardstock can be your journal base.
3. Start layering. Glue down scraps, add pockets, washi tape, or doodles. There’s no wrong way to do it!
4. Write, stamp, or decorate. Use it as a diary, an art journal, or just a place to collect fun things.

Need Help Getting Started?

Feeling a little stuck? I’ve got you covered! Check out my YouTube tutorials where I break down junk journaling step by step, making it easy and fun. I also have a shop filled with handpicked supplies to make your junk journaling journey even more exciting—because who doesn’t love a little happy mail? 🎉

Remember: It’s About the Process, Not Perfection

If you’re overthinking your pages, take a deep breath. Junk journaling is about experimenting and having fun. Your first pages might look messy, but that’s part of the charm!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some paper scraps, check out my tutorials, and start creating!