The Exciting World of Junk Journaling

Junk Journaling is on the move!  This fun and exciting way of paper crafting has become popular over the past few years.  It’s a unique way to create, journal, keep memories and repurpose materials that you would never think about using to create a beautiful piece of your history. So let’s delve into the world of Junk Journaling and find out what it’s all about, who is it for, how to get started and where to find a Junk Journaling community. 

What is a Junk Journal?

A junk journal is a handmade book filled with a variety of papers, textures, and special memories.

Think of it as a cross between a scrapbook, a diary, and a mixed media art piece. But don’t let the word “junk” fool you! We are not talking about visiting Oscar the Grouch on Sesame street and plunging into his trash can to see what we can find to create our books. It means you will be creatively repurposing materials that we usually toss aside: paper scraps, ticket stubs, packing, old book pages, fabric scraps, greeting cards and so much more. 

At its core, a junk journal is a personal and expressive space. What I love about it the most is that it’s a place where no rules apply. Where a smudged ink stamp can be a happy accident and a torn edge adds character. Perfection is not required! You can write in it, collage in it, tuck away little memories, or simply create for the joy of it. Some people fill their journals with handwritten notes and photos, then we have the hidden artist who loves to doodle and draw, while others create layered pages full of color, texture, and visual storytelling. 

What makes junk journaling so magical is that it’s entirely up to you. Whether you’re documenting everyday moments, exploring your creativity, or just looking for a reason to use your growing collection of pretty paper and embellishments, a junk journal gives you the freedom to do it your way.

There’s no wrong way to start, and that’s what makes it so freeing.

What Can You Use a Junk Journal For?

One of the best things about junk journals is that there’s no one right way to use them. Here a few ways that I have used them:

• Created Little Golden book journals that keep the original stories in tack but have fun pockets and tags to make it interactive.  
• Quick and easy ones made from lunch bags to give as gifts.
• Small Travel journals for my Grandkids to document their vacations.
• Baby’s first year journals.
• Christmas themed journals that can be used to record your memories plus use as Christmas Decorations for your house.

That’s the beauty of it! Whether you’re a memory keeper, a doodler, a list-maker, or someone who just wants to do something creative with all that pretty paper you’ve collected over the years, a junk journal can be whatever you need it to be.  

Let’s break down some of the ideas I’ve used in the past plus a few more to give you a good look onto the world of Junk Journaling.

Here are just a few ways you can use your junk journal—feel free to pick one or mix them all together:

1. A Place to Write It All Down

For those of you who love to record your thoughts or special moments,use your journal like a traditional diary. Jot down your thoughts, doodle in the margins, add a special letter or note to one of the pockets or scribble out your to-do list and then decorate around it. There’s something really satisfying about putting pen to paper—especially when the paper is layered with love and personality.

 2. A Creative Collage Playground

Think of your junk journal as a little art playground where you can try out new techniques. My journals are full of techniques that I tried that may not have come out as nice as I wanted but when added to my junk journal give it a fun insight to my behind the scenes creating.  Each of them brings back funny memories of what I went through when I first tried the technique. 

Not sure what to do with that scrap of lace or that leftover stamped image? Tuck it into a page! Want to try a new stencil or ink color? Go for it! There are no mistakes here—just creative experiments.

 3. A Travel Companion

Whether you’re flying to Paris or just heading to the next town over, bring your junk journal along and use it to save ticket stubs, postcards, photos, or funny little notes from your trip. You’ll end up with a one-of-a-kind keepsake that’s way better than anything you could buy in a gift shop. Don’t forget you will have space to add pictures from travel as well. 

 4. A Gratitude or Faith Journal

Some crafters like to use their journals as a place for daily gratitude or reflection. You can write out prayers, blessings, or even uplifting quotes and decorate the pages with peaceful imagery or calming colors.  I don’t know about you, maybe it’s my age, but when I hear a quote that really moves me in the moment and I don’t write it down then a few hours later I have forgotten it and the feeling I had when I heard it.  If it’s in my journal then those memories come back as I reread it. 

 5. A Family Recipe or Heritage Journal

Have Grandma’s apple pie recipe? Slip it into a pocket alongside old family photos or stories. This is a beautiful way to preserve family history while also playing with paper and embellishments.

 6. A Personal Keepsake (Just for You!)

You know all those little things you can’t throw away but don’t know where to put—concert tickets, birthday cards, handwritten notes from the grandkids? Those belong in your junk journal. It becomes a time capsule full of memories you didn’t even know you were saving.  

What a great gift this would make to give to your children or grandchildren later in their lives filled with all the pictures, letter and notes they have given you to show how important all those little things were to you. 

 7. Just Because It’s Fun

Sometimes you don’t need a reason at all. You just want to sit down, play with paper, and make something pretty. That’s a perfectly good reason to create—and maybe the best one.

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There’s no pressure with junk journaling. You don’t have to finish a page. You don’t have to spell things perfectly. You just get to show up, grab your supplies, and have fun. And I promise—you already have everything you need to get started.

Who is Junk Journaling For?

Short answer? You.

Junk journaling isn’t just for experienced crafters (though they love it too!). It’s for anyone who wants to play, create, and connect—with themselves, with their stories, and even with the scraps sitting on their craft table. There is something so appealing about working with paper and other materials and creating something that is uniquely you!

If you’ve ever…

• Saved a tag from a new blouse because it was just too cute to toss,
• Collected scraps of paper “just in case” you might need them someday,
• Bought pretty paper or stamps because they made your heart skip (even if you weren’t sure how you’d use them),
• Wanted to make something meaningful, but didn’t feel “artistic” enough,
• Or you simply love the idea of crafting something that’s 100% yours—flaws, stories, and all…

…then junk journaling was absolutely made for you.

I especially love this craft because it meets you right where you are. Maybe you’re a card maker with piles of leftover bits and pieces, or maybe you’ve never crafted a day in your life but something about layered paper and old book pages makes your heart flutter. Maybe you’re looking for a way to slow down and be more mindful, or maybe you just want a hobby that doesn’t require perfection. One thing I’ve noticed among my friends who Junk Journal with me is that they love the fact that you don’t have to get it all straight or perfect for it to come out amazing. 

Junk journaling gives you permission to play. No rules. No right or wrong. Just your imagination, your stash, and a whole lot of freedom.

And honestly? I think so many of us, especially women in our 40s, 50s, and 60s—need that creative space. A place that’s just for us, where we can be messy, inspired, reflective, and totally ourselves.

So if you’re reading this and thinking, “Could I really do this?” let me be the first to say: Yes, friend. You absolutely can. And I’d love to help you get started.

What Goes Inside a Junk Journal?

This is where the real fun begins. Filling your journal with all the bits and pieces that tell your story or spark your creativity. One of the most exciting (and freeing!) things about junk journaling is that anything goes. If you can glue it, clip it, sew it, or tuck it in a pocket… it belongs in your junk journal.

Don’t overthink it. There’s no checklist, no rules. Just start with what you already have, and build from there.

Here are some of my favorite things to include:

 Ephemera

That’s just a fancy word for everyday paper bits that tell a story. This is one of the funniest things to make as well. Think:

• Vintage receipts, tickets, or postcards
• Book pages or sheet music
• Tags from clothing or packaging
• Notes from friends, sticky notes with meaning, or even your grocery list
• And much much more

 Handmade Goodies

Once you start creating, you’ll want to make your own little treasures too:

• Pockets and tuck spots
• Tags and journaling cards
• Paper Clips with ribbon or fabric
• Envelopes (mini and full-sized) to hide little notes or memories
• The list goes on and on

 Scrapbooking & Card Making Leftovers

Yes, finally—a use for all those scraps! As most of you know I have been an avid card maker and scrapbooker for years and boy do I have a lot of bins with all the things listed below. Pull out:

• Leftover die cuts, punched shapes, stamped images
• Off-cuts from patterned paper
• Bits of washi tape or ribbon
• Pages you made but never used in other projects

 Textures and Layers

Add that beautiful, tactile feel that makes junk journals so satisfying to flip through.  I am really enjoying working with things that in the past I never considered using on my cards and scrapbook pages.  Junk Journaling has definitely opened my eyes into working with all types of tactiles. :

• Fabric scraps, lace, ribbon
• Tea-dyed paper or coffee-stained notebook paper
• Vellum, transparencies, or even doilies

 Writing & Quotes

Whether it’s your own words or borrowed inspiration, include:

• Handwritten journaling or typed entries
• Affirmations, favorite quotes, or lyrics
• Poems, prayers, or personal reflections

 Personal Touches

This is where your journal becomes yours:

• Photos (old or new)
• Drawings, doodles, stickers
• Memorabilia—like a pressed flower from your garden, or the fortune from last night’s takeout

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Quick Tip: If it makes you smile, brings back a memory, or makes you want to save it for something special—this is that something special.

So dig into that drawer of “someday stuff,” open up your scrap bins, and start layering. You don’t need to buy anything fancy. Just gather, glue, and enjoy the process. Before long, your journal will be bursting with charm, character, and YOU.

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Common Types of Junk Journals

There are so many fun directions you can take your junk journaling—some are themed, some are seasonal, and some are just whatever-you-feel-in-the-moment! (My favorite) Part of the joy is discovering what speaks to you. Your style might be vintage and grungy one day and full of florals and pastels the next—and that’s perfectly okay.  I have found in Junk Journaling I’m not afraid to go outside my normal color palettes and designs and truly broadened the way I create. 

Let me walk you through a few common types of junk journals to get your creative wheels turning:

 1. Vintage Junk Journals (Still my favorite)

These are super popular—and for good reason. Think old book pages, sepia-toned photos, lace, buttons, and ephemera that looks like it came out of your great-grandmother’s attic (in the best way). Perfect for telling stories, reflecting on the past, or just embracing all things antique.

 2. Botanical or Nature-Themed Journals

If you love flowers, leaves, garden imagery, and earthy colors, this one’s for you. These journals often feature pressed flowers, natural textures, botanical prints, and soft, calming tones. They pair beautifully with watercolor accents or hand lettering. One of my friends created one for her gardening and it came out beautiful. 

 3. Travel or Adventure Journals

Even if your “travel” is just to the farmer’s market, you can capture your adventures! Use maps, ticket stubs, luggage tags, brochures, or photos to document memories from trips (big or small). These journals are great for storytelling and scrapbooking on the go. A great way to make a trip interactive for your children and grandchildren without the use of electronics. 

 4. Grungy or Industrial-Style Journals

A little edgy, a little moody—these journals use lots of dark colors, metal accents, and distressed textures. Think torn edges, ink splatters, and layers of stamping. If you like mixed media or experimenting with textures, this style might be a fun one to try.

 5. Seasonal or Holiday Journals

Create a journal just for Christmas, autumn, springtime, or any holiday you love. These are a great way to document family traditions, recipes, or cozy moments. (And let’s be honest—holiday paper and embellishments are so much fun to work with.)

 6. Themed Journals

These can be anything you dream up: fairy tales, quotes, recipes, sewing, cats, coffee—you name it! A themed journal can be a fun little project to focus on one interest and go all in creatively. I did one recently for dog lovers that included recipes for making dog treats.  It was a big hit!  If you have an animal lover in your life this would be an amazing gift for them. 

 7. Hybrid or Digital Junk Journals

Yes, there’s even a digital side to all this! Some crafters love using printable kits (many designed to look vintage or hand-made), which they print out and build into their journals. It’s a great way to add cohesive themes without having to hunt down every single piece.

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No matter what type you start with, remember this: your junk journal doesn’t have to fit in a box. Mix and match. Try something new. Follow your creative instincts. The only “rule” is that it should make you happy.

Basic Supplies Needed

One of the best things about junk journaling is that you don’t need a craft store haul to get started. You probably have most of what you need right now! Seriously. If you’ve got paper, scissors, and a little glue then you’re off to the races. Most of us already have more than enough tucked away in drawers, bins, and “I’ll-use-this-someday” piles.

Let’s walk through the basics. You can build up your stash over time, but here’s what will get you going:

 1. Scissors or a Paper Trimmer

Good, sharp scissors will do just fine. If you have a paper trimmer, it makes cutting straight lines a breeze—but don’t worry if your lines are a little wobbly. That’s called character.

Note:  If you don’t have a paper trimmer you can also use a straight edged ruler (usually metal) to tear your paper into the size you want. 

 2. Adhesive

Glue stick, double-sided tape, a tape runner, or even a glue bottle—whatever you prefer. Here are the top few glues that I use:

• Tombow Liquid Glue or Art Glitter glue
• Tombow Mono Glue stick
• Stampin’  Up® Tear & Tape (double sided tape)
• Fabric Tac liquid glue
• E6000 glue (for jewelry, beads and such)
• Stamp N Seal+ (super strong tape runner made by Stampin’ Up®)

. (Tip: a glue stick works great for paper-on-paper, but a liquid glue is better for bulky or layered pages.)

Start where you are and with the Adhesive you have you will learn which ones you like the best and then you’ll stick with those. 

 3. Papers (All Kinds!)

This is where you get to dig into that stash! Some ideas:

• Old book pages or sheet music
• Scrapbook paper or cardstock
• Tea-dyed or coffee-stained paper for a vintage touch
• Envelopes, notepads, junk mail, wrapping paper, or paper bags

If you can write on it, glue it, or fold it—it probably belongs in your junk journal.

 4. Bits and Pieces (aka “Ephemera”)

These are the little touches that make your journal one-of-a-kind:

• Tags, labels, postcards, tickets, receipts
• Die cuts, punched shapes, stamped images
• Magazine clippings or printable designs
• Ribbons, fabric scraps, lace, buttons

If you’re a card maker or scrapbooker, you already have a gold mine of scraps waiting to be used here!  If not then you get to start creating your own. 

 5. Pens, Inks, or Stamps (Optional, but Fun!)

Once you’re hooked (and you probably will be), you might want to add:

• Stamps and ink pads
• Distress inks for those lovely vintage edges
• White gel pens, fountain pens, or markers for writing or doodling
• Stencils, stickers, or washi tape for extra flair

 6. Optional Tools (But Not Necessary to Start!)

You don’t need any of these to get going, but if you love layering and detail, these are great:

• Hole punch or crop-a-dile
• Sewing machine for stitched pages or pockets
• Corner rounder or edge punch
• Bone folder for crisp folds
• Heat tool if you’re working with wet mediums like glue or ink

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Remember: you don’t need all the bells and whistles. Just start with what you’ve got. The whole spirit of junk journaling is use what’s on hand and have fun with it. The magic is in the mix—not the perfection.

Note: If you enjoy Estate Sales and Garage Sales they are a gold mine for Junk Journaling.

How to Get Started (Step-by-Step Basics)

Starting your first junk journal might feel a little overwhelming  where do you even begin with all those scraps and ideas bouncing around? Don’t overthink it and don’t worry. I’ve got you. Let’s keep it simple and just take it one step at a time.

This is how I recommend easing into it (coffee and comfy pants optional but highly encouraged):

 Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Start with what you already have. Look through all your bins especially if you are a card maker or scrapbooking and Grab:

• A journal base (notebook, old book, or just folded paper)
• Some paper scraps
• Scissors
• Glue or tape
• A few bits and pieces that make you smile (tags, lace, stickers, old receipts—whatever!)

Set them out on your table so you can see everything. Don’t worry about having a theme or a plan yet, this is your playground.

 Step 2: Pick a Journal Base

You have options! You can:

• Use a composition notebook or a traveler’s notebook insert
• Make your own journal with folded pages and a cardstock cover
• Repurpose an old book (this is called an “altered book”)
  Choose whatever feels least intimidating. You don’t want to stress yourself out so keep it simple and remember this is your creative home—make it comfy.

 Step 3: Start with a Simple Page

Forget the fancy flips and secret pockets for now. Start small:

• I do what is called a dry run when I am creating.  What this means is I will start with a base then start layering all the different things I have found to see how it looks.  Then I start with the next step. 
• Glue down a background paper you love
• Add a journaling card or tag
• Tuck a note or quote into a pocket (or even just glue a pretty scrap of paper and call it done!)

Just one page. That’s it. You’re not trying to win an award here—you’re making space to play.

 Step 4: Layer and Add Texture

Once you’re feeling brave, try adding:

• A strip of washi tape or lace
• A stamped image or a little doodle
• A torn book page or coffee-dyed scrap for a vintage feel

Remember: you can’t mess this up. No perfection is needed. Some of the most charming pages come from “oops” moments that turned into something magical.

 Step 5: Add Your Words (Or Don’t!)

If you want to write, great! Jot down a thought, a quote, a memory. But if not? That’s okay too. Your junk journal doesn’t have to be filled with writing. Sometimes the art speaks for itself.

You can also add words by:

•  Stamping a favorite sentiment
• Cutting out words from a magazine

 Step 6: Keep Going—One Page at a Time

You don’t have to fill the whole journal at once. I have often call these living journals because sometimes we finish them fast and other times we go back often to add and create more to be included in the journal. Just keep adding to it when the mood strikes. Some days you’ll do a full spread; some days you might just stick in a leaf you found on a walk. Every page adds up to something beautiful and makes it uniquely you!

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Little Pep Talk: The first time you glue something into your journal, you might hesitate. You’ll wonder if it’s the “right” way. Let me save you the trouble, no pressure, there is no right way. The only mistake is not starting.

So go ahead, friend. Rip the paper. Smudge the ink. Glue the crooked pocket. That’s part of the charm. Your journal is a reflection of you—real, creative, and totally one of a kind.

Tips for Building a Stash of Ephemera

Here’s the fun part: once you start junk journaling, you’ll never look at paper the same way again. It’s like a light switch has gone on in your brain. Suddenly, that piece of junk mail, that bakery bag, or that tag from your new sweater doesn’t go in the trash, it goes in your ephemera stash!

If you’re thinking, “But I don’t have any of that cool vintage stuff!” no worries. You don’t need to raid an antique store to get started. You’ve probably got more than enough right in your home already.

Here are my favorite ways to build up a beautiful, budget-friendly stash:

 1. Raid Your Recycling Bin (Yes, Really!)

You’d be amazed at what you can use:

• Junk mail envelopes with patterned linings
• Packaging from paper goods or snacks (the fonts and textures can be amazing!)
• Cardboard from tissue boxes or cereal boxes (hello, sturdy tags!)
• Just to mention a few

 2. Look Through Your Craft Scraps

If you’ve been making cards, scrapbooking, or even just collecting supplies, you’ve likely got a goldmine hiding in your stash:

• Paper scraps, stamped extras, die cuts
• Trial pieces that didn’t make it onto a card
• Washi tape bits, leftover ribbon, odd embellishments

Your “leftovers” are the perfect building blocks for junk journal pages.

 3. Save Every Little Thing That Sparks Joy

Train your eye to spot the good stuff:

• Receipts from memorable days
• Notes or cards from loved ones
• Tags, tickets, brochures, business cards
• Wrapping paper, ribbon, or tissue from gifts

If it has a story—or if it just looks cool—save it.

 4. Explore Free Printables & Digital Ephemera

There are SO many free resources online! Just search for:

• “Free vintage ephemera printables”
• “Botanical junk journal pages”
• “Printable tags or journaling cards”

Print them on regular paper, tea-dyed sheets, or cardstock for instant stash builders. (You can even ink the edges or crumple them up for a little extra personality.)

 5. Mix in Fabric, Lace & Found Objects

Texture takes it to the next level so gather:

• Scraps of fabric or old clothing
• Lace trims, buttons, safety pins
• Tea bags, book spines, pressed flowers, feathers

If you can glue it down or stitch it in, you can use it!

 6. Organize As You Go (Kind Of)

A good system will go a long way to cut down on what and where you have things.  If you start from the beginning then as you find things you will be able to walk over to where it’s kept and put it away for later. Don’t worry about having a picture-perfect system. Just aim for accessible. Sort your ephemera into:

• Envelopes, baskets, or bins
• Categories like “tags,” “vintage,” “neutral tones,” or “seasonal”

If you can find it, you’ll actually use it—and that’s what matters most.

Note: If you don’t have a lot of space then consider joining a Monthly Junk Journal Club or Class where the instructor provides you with what you need to create that month’s projects (I have several ladies that love journaling but have no space so they love my classes for this reason) then as you get more familiar with what you like and need you can find the space to store it if you want to. More info on this class will be provided. 

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Little Insider Tip: Once your friends and family know you’re into junk journaling, they’ll start saving goodies for you too. Old books, lace, greeting cards—people love helping you “rescue” things that would otherwise be tossed. They may even come up with something you didn’t think about using. 

So go ahead and start your stash. Before long, you’ll have a little treasure trove that turns every journaling session into a creative adventure.

Junk Journaling as a Mindful Practice

Let’s be honest, life can be a stressful place where we can feel overwhelmed and out of balance. There’s always something to do, somewhere to be, someone to take care of. We all need time to turn the focus to ourselves and fill our cups. Junk journaling gives us a beautiful little pause in the middle of all that noise. It’s not just about crafting, it’s about allowing yourself to connect  with your thoughts, your memories, your creativity, and yes, even your scraps.

There’s something wonderfully calming and satisfying about sitting down with your paper and glue, flipping through textures, and letting your hands take over for a while. No screens, no pressure, no rules, just you and the page.

Here’s why so many people (myself included!) find junk journaling to be such a peaceful, meaningful practice:

 It Slows You Down

We live in a fast world. But junk journaling invites you to slow your pace. Tearing paper, layering textures, gently gluing things down. These are small, quiet actions that bring you into the moment. Even 15 minutes at your craft table can feel like a reset.

 It Encourages Imperfection (In the Best Way)

You know how we’re always striving to get everything “just right”? The pressure can be immense.  I see it all around me, playing a baseball game with no errors, Getting a good score on a test, Not burning dinner. Whereas, Junk journaling celebrates crooked edges, smudged ink, and pages that look beautifully lived in. It’s a gentle reminder that your life doesn’t need to be perfect to be meaningful.

 It Helps You Reflect

Whether you’re journaling through words, colors, or keepsakes, your junk journal becomes a place to process your thoughts. Some people write out prayers or affirmations. Others just let the act of creating speak for them. Either way, it becomes a safe, expressive space that grows with you.

It Fills Your Creative Cup

When was the last time you created something just for you without a deadline, an audience, or expectations? Junk journaling gives you that gift. It lets you play, explore, and try new things. You can make a mess. You can make magic. Most days, you’ll probably make both.

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Truth is, junk journaling is as much about healing and self-care as it is about paper and glue. It’s a practice. A ritual. A way of saying, “This moment matters. I matter.”

So the next time you feel overwhelmed or uninspired, grab your scraps. Open your journal. Breathe. And begin.

How to Store or Share Your Junk Journals

So you’ve gotten started even  made a few pages, or maybe a whole stack of journals. Now What? “Where do I put all of this?”. You’re not alone! Junk journals are meant to be cherished, used, displayed, and yes, sometimes even shared.

Whether you’re creating for yourself or gifting them to others, here are some thoughtful (and functional) ways to store or share your journals:

 1. Display Them Like the Art They Are

These little books are beautiful, and they deserve to be seen! Try:

• A wooden tray or basket on your coffee table
• Standing them upright on a bookshelf
• Laying them open to your favorite page on a decorative shelf

You’ll be surprised how many conversations they start.  Not to mention how often you’ll reach for one just to flip through and smile.

 2. Store Them Safely for Later

If you’re building a collection, you might want to keep some tucked away:

• Use a photo storage box or decorative bin to stack them neatly
• Label spines or tags by date or theme
• Wrap them in tissue or fabric if they’re especially delicate

This is a great way to preserve your creative history and see how your style evolves over time.

 3. Give Them as Gifts

There’s something incredibly meaningful about gifting a handmade junk journal. You could:

• Create a themed journal for a friend’s birthday, wedding, or retirement
• Make a blank journal filled with pretty papers and tuck-in spots for someone to fill on their own (This one is my favorite to give a gift that helps someone else fill their cups)
• Add personal touches like handwritten notes, quotes, or memories

People love receiving something so thoughtful, especially when it’s one-of-a-kind.

 4. Trade or Swap With Other Crafters

One of the best parts of the junk journal community is the community! There are Facebook groups, clubs, online swaps, and even local meetups where people trade handmade journals or ephemera. It’s a wonderful way to:

• Share your work with people who “get it”
• Get inspired by different styles and techniques
• Connect with new crafty friends

 5. Use Them!

Don’t forget junk journals aren’t just for looking at. They’re made to be opened, written in, and enjoyed. Keep one by your bed for nightly reflections. Bring a small one with you when you travel. Use one as your seasonal gratitude journal or recipe keeper. Let them live and breathe with your life.

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Remember: Your journal doesn’t have to be tucked away forever. Whether it’s a quiet keepsake or a gift to share, each page you make holds a piece of your story and there’s real beauty in that.

Joining the Junk Journal Community

One of the most beautiful things about junk journaling, besides the paper, the texture, the layers, the vintage flair is the people. There’s a whole community of like-minded creatives out there who will cheer you on, inspire you, swap ideas with you, and totally understand why you’re saving a tea-stained envelope and a ripped book page with a smile. I must admit it has become my favorite class to teach.  We have so much fun and I love seeing the creativity bloom in each class. 

Whether you’re a quiet observer or ready to jump in with both feet, here’s how to connect with fellow junk journalers:

 1. Online & In-Person Workshops

This is a great place to start. Over the years I have found the best way to learn and grow is to find a mentor or teacher that helps and guides you through the process. It’s like having an easy button. It can cut the learning curve in half. Not to mention the fun you will have spending time with other crafty souls. These are great for:

• Learning new techniques
• Getting real-time encouragement
• Meeting new friends who “get” your obsession with paper scraps

And if you’re someone who enjoys the accountability of a regular meetup or monthly challenge, a club might be just the thing to keep you creatively motivated.  I of course offer both in-person and online clubs so make sure to check out that information below. 

2. Facebook Groups

There are so many welcoming, helpful, and wildly creative groups where you can:

• Ask for feedback
• Share your work
• Participate in challenges or swaps
• Get inspired by what others are making

Look for groups that fit your vibe, some focus on vintage, others on faith journaling, seasonal themes, or even specific techniques. (And if you’re part of my group, I’m so glad you’re here! You already belong.)

3. YouTube Channels

YouTube is a treasure trove of tutorials, journal flip-throughs, and inspiration. Whether you want to learn how to make a hidden paperclip or watch someone decorate a page in real time, there’s a video for that. This is where I had to start as I could not find any classes available for me to start and my Granddaughter wanted to make a Junk Journal so we jumped in feet first and created our first Junk Journal Together.  It was tons of fun but it would have been so helpful to have a class to attend. 

Search for:

• “Junk journal flip through”
• “Beginner junk journal tutorial”
• “DIY ephemera for junk journals”

You’ll discover creators whose styles match yours and before you know it, you’ll be crafting along with them.

 4. Instagram & Pinterest

Need a little eye candy? Instagram and Pinterest are full of stunning pages and ideas. Follow hashtags like:

• #junkjournal
• #junkjournalinspiration
• #vintageephemera
• #creativejournaling

You’ll find everything from moody grunge to floral and feminine to whimsical collage. It’s a great way to gather inspiration (and to remind yourself that everyone starts somewhere).

 

Here’s the truth: You don’t have to create alone. There’s a big, beautiful community of paper lovers out there and there’s a spot just for you. Whether you’re a seasoned journaler or just starting out with glue stick in hand, your voice and style are welcome here.

So go ahead—post that page, share that tag, ask that question. We’re all just a bunch of paper-loving hearts figuring it out together. And we’re so glad you’re here.

Why You’ll Love Junk Journaling

Let’s be honest when my granddaughter first mentioned doing a junk journal I thought it’s just about paper and glue but I soon found out it’s so much more than that. It has become a new passion for me that I love doing and teaching. 

It’s your story, told in scraps and layers. It’s your creativity, set free without rules or pressure. It’s your quiet time, your messy joy, your little space in the world where everything gets to be exactly how you want it. How often do we get that in life. 

Whether you’ve finished your first page or your fiftieth journal, here’s why I think junk journaling is going to steal your heart (if it hasn’t already):

 1. There Are No Rules (Best thing ever)

This is a come as you are kind of hobby. You don’t need to be an artist. You don’t need to know where to start. There’s no “right” way to glue a page together. If it feels good and looks interesting to you, that’s more than enough.

 2. You’ll Finally Use and Love Your Scraps

Now instead of sighing every time you look at those bins full of scraps.  They now have a purpose.  All those bits and pieces you’ve been saving “just in case”? We have found the case! Junk journaling helps you make the most of what you already have. It’s creative, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly too.

 3. It’s a Mindful Escape

Junk journaling gives you a chance to slow down. It’s hands-on, it’s calming, and it helps you to become grounded  for a little while. There’s nothing quite like getting lost in the rhythm of layering paper, flipping pages, and letting your creativity lead.

 4. Every Journal is One-of-a-Kind

No two junk journals are ever the same and that’s the beauty of it. Your journal reflects your stories, your style, and your spirit. It’s personal, it’s imperfect, and it’s perfectly you.

 5. You’ll Be Part of a Beautiful Creative Community

Whether you’re sharing your work online, trading ephemera, or just quietly watching others create—you’re never crafting alone. The junk journal world is full of encouragement, inspiration, and connection.

💌 6. It’s a Gift to Yourself (and Others)

Your junk journals will become keepsakes. They’ll hold your memories, your creativity, your growth. And if you choose to gift them, they’ll carry your love and heart to someone else in the most meaningful way.

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So if you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it. Grab the glue stick. Tear the page. Make the mess. Create the beauty. Your story deserves to be told—and junk journaling is one of the most joyful ways to tell it.

And friend? I’m cheering you on every step of the way.