Junk Journaling (What is it and How do you do it?)

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Last Updated on January 18, 2025 by Nell Marie

So, if you’re new to the idea of junk journaling, I know you may be thinking, what the heck is that?!

So, junk journaling is basically a creative way to document your thoughts, memories, and artistic ideas using a mix of found items, old papers, and other materials you’d typically throw away.

Think ticket stubs, magazine clippings, vintage postcards, or even fabric scraps that hold some kind of meaning to you.

It’s a free-spirited, no-rules approach to creating something beautiful and personal out of what might otherwise be considered “junk.”

Your journal can be a scrapbook, diary, art journal, or a mix of all three—there’s no wrong way to do it!

Think of it as a creative way to express yourself and hold onto memories that don’t include drawing, painting, or making art but rather allowing the items to be the art!

Things like buttons, receipts, tickets, brochures and so on that mark a time in your life, or even a regular mundane day, can be used in your junk journal.

More Journaling Ideas:

Tips and Ideas for Junk Journaling Beginners

Start with what you have: Don’t rush to buy expensive supplies. Look around your home for items like old notebooks, newspapers, envelopes, or wrapping paper. These can all become part of your journal.

Choose your base: You can use a blank notebook, an old book, or even create your own by binding together sheets of paper. Each option gives your journal a unique feel.

Gather materials: Collect bits and pieces from your life—receipts, concert tickets, photos, or pressed flowers. You can also use stickers, washi tape, or stamps if you want to add more flair.

Experiment with layouts: Try different combinations of items on a page before gluing them down. Layer items for a more dynamic look or stick with a simple, minimalist design.

Add personal touches: Write journal entries, quotes, or doodles to make the pages uniquely yours. It’s a great way to reflect on your life or capture your feelings.

Don’t stress about perfection: Junk journaling is about creativity, not perfection. There’s beauty in the imperfections, so let go of the pressure to make everything look “just right.”

Incorporate themes: If you’re feeling stuck, try creating pages around a specific theme like travel, nature, or a favorite color. Themes can help spark new ideas.

10 Junk Journaling Ideas to Try

Memory page: Use photos, tickets, and notes to document a special day.

Mood board: Collect colors, textures, and images that inspire you.

Nature page: Include pressed leaves, flowers, or sketches of outdoor scenes.

Travel log: Use maps, postcards, and souvenirs from your trips.

Gratitude journal: Create pages focused on things you’re thankful for.

Seasonal themes: Reflect the colors and vibes of the current season.

Quotes and affirmations: Decorate pages with your favorite sayings.

Dream journal: Illustrate or describe dreams you’ve had.

Collage art: Combine magazine clippings, doodles, and stickers for a fun visual page.

Bucket list: Write and decorate a list of things you want to accomplish.

Junk Journal Prompts

Favorite Quote
Write down a quote that resonates with you and decorate the page with related imagery or colors.

Dream Destination
Illustrate or collage your dream travel destination using magazine cutouts, doodles, or maps.

A Day in Your Life
Describe a typical day for you. Use washi tape, stickers, or sketches to embellish.

Childhood Memory
Reflect on a fond childhood memory and include items like pressed flowers or old photos.

Mood Tracker
Create a page to track your mood over a week or month with colors or symbols.

Nature Walk
Document a recent walk in nature with sketches, pressed leaves, or notes on what you observed.

Gratitude List
Write about things you’re grateful for, and use cheerful colors or uplifting visuals to decorate.

Favorite Song Lyrics
Highlight lyrics that inspire you and create a design that reflects the song’s mood.

Bucket List
List your life goals and dreams, then illustrate them with sketches or magazine clippings.

Seasonal Spread
Create a page inspired by the current season, using colors, textures, or natural elements like leaves.

Self-Portrait
Draw, paint, or collage a representation of yourself—literal or abstract.

Book or Movie Review
Review a book or movie you’ve recently enjoyed and include illustrations or quotes from it.

Random Word Inspiration
Pick a random word from a dictionary or word generator and create a page based on it.

Vision Board
Craft a mini vision board for your goals or aspirations using inspiring images and text.

Recipe Collage
Share a favorite recipe and decorate the page with food-related images or doodles.

Positive Affirmations
Write down affirmations you want to focus on, and design the page with bright and motivating visuals.

Hidden Pocket
Create a page with a hidden pocket and fill it with secrets, wishes, or keepsakes.

10 Things That Make You Smile
List them out and include happy or whimsical decorations to match.

Travel Memories
If you’ve been on a trip recently, document it with ticket stubs, photos, and journaling.

Your Favorite Color
Dedicate a page to your favorite color, using various shades, textures, and materials that match.

Securing Items in Your Junk Journal

Securing items in a junk journal can be both functional and creative. Here are several methods to keep your treasures safe and stylishly attached:

Adhesives

Glue Stick or Liquid Glue
- Ideal for lightweight items like paper and photos. Use archival-quality glue for longevity.
Double-Sided Tape
- Great for securing flat items without mess. It’s strong and easy to apply.
Mod Podge
- Perfect for sealing delicate items like pressed flowers or adding a glossy finish to collages.
Glue Dots
- Small, strong adhesive dots are excellent for attaching embellishments like buttons or sequins.

Tapes

Washi Tape
- Adds a decorative touch while holding lightweight items in place.
Masking or Clear Tape
- Transparent and sturdy for securing items discreetly.
Fabric Tape
- Adds texture and design while holding heavier materials securely.

Fasteners

Staples
- Quick and effective for attaching paper layers or tags. Use colored or decorative staples for added flair.
Brads (Paper Fasteners)
- Ideal for movable parts or attaching thicker materials.
Paper Clips or Binder Clips

Temporary or adjustable way to secure items. Use decorative clips for extra charm.

Stitching

Sewing by Hand or Machine

Use embroidery thread or standard sewing thread to stitch items directly to pages for a textured, handmade look.

String or Twine

Tie items into your journal or use for a rustic fastening method.

Pocket or Envelope Methods

Pockets

Create pockets from folded paper or vellum to tuck in photos, notes, or keepsakes.

Envelopes

Glue envelopes onto pages for a safe and decorative way to store items.

Clips and Pins

Mini Clothespins

Clip items to pages for a playful, removable option.

Safety Pins

Secure fabric swatches, tags, or lightweight materials stylishly.

Overlay or Lamination

Clear Overlays

Use acetate sheets or clear plastic to cover and secure delicate items.

Laminating

Laminate important or fragile items and adhere them to your pages with glue or tape.

Elastic Bands or String Closures

Elastic Loops

Secure bulkier items by threading them through elastic loops.

String Tie Closures

Wrap string around buttons or brads for a creative way to keep items in place.

FAQs About Junk Journaling

Q: What’s the best journal to use? A: There’s no “best” option. You can use anything from a store-bought notebook to an old book you repurpose. The key is finding something you’re excited to work with.

Q: Do I need to be artistic to start junk journaling? A: Not at all! Junk journaling isn’t about being an artist—it’s about expressing yourself. Anyone can do it.

Q: Where can I find materials for my journal? A: Start with what you have at home, like old mail, packaging, or magazines. Thrift stores, craft stores, and even nature can also be great sources.

Q: How do I get over a creative block? A: Take a break and look for inspiration online or in everyday life. Sometimes flipping through old magazines or walking outside can spark fresh ideas.

Q: Can junk journaling be digital? A: Yes! Digital junk journaling is an option. You can create pages using apps or software that let you combine images, text, and designs.

Junk journaling is all about embracing creativity and making something that truly feels like a reflection of you. There are no rules—your journal can be as neat or as messy, as colorful or as muted, as planned or as spontaneous as you want. It’s a space where memories, dreams, and inspiration collide, allowing you to craft a keepsake that tells your unique story.

So, grab a notebook, some glue, and whatever materials catch your eye—whether it’s ticket stubs, magazine clippings, dried flowers, or scraps of fabric. Let your imagination run wild, and don’t be afraid to experiment. The beauty of junk journaling is in the process, not just the final product. Every page is an opportunity to express yourself, explore your creativity, and capture the little things that bring you joy.

Start creating today and watch as your junk journal becomes a cherished masterpiece filled with your personality and passion!

Junk Journaling (What is it and How do you do it?)