Junk journaling is, I think, more of an American term. It’s a bit like scrapbooking, but more relaxed and unstructured; a creative journal where anything goes. Use it for art, words, memories, collages… You can start with a theme in mind or just go with the flow. It’s great for upcycling and using up scraps of paper. All you really need is a blank journal, with pages sturdy enough to take whatever you’re sticking in.
Step 1: Collect junk!
Hoard any scraps, labels, or packaging you think is an interesting colour, texture or pattern; or maybe some words or text that stand out to you. If you’re stuck for what you want to create, you can use these as a jumping off point to get you started. I like to use old tea bag packets, magazines, old diary covers, and pages from unwanted tattered books — along with a selection of scissors and shape cutters, Washi tape and stickers.
When using text, I tend to see a word or phrase that I like and build the page around that; either by tearing words out, or editing sections to highlight the words I like. Here, I’d come across the word ‘foxes’, so I started from there, adding one of my origami foxes and some cutout flowers.
More hints & tips: Play around with things on the page before committing by sticking them down. Create layers and textures. Add pencils, pens and paints. Use stickers to stick scraps instead of using glue. Add dried/pressed flowers or leaves.
As you collect and add bits to your journal, it’s a good idea to keep it all together. You can keep smaller bits in an old envelope. Simply tie string or ribbon around the journal, envelope, and any bigger bits and pieces; or, you can create a loop of elastic by sewing the ends together, and use that to slip around everything and keep it all in place.
You can also create a simple open pocket by cutting the top off an envelope and gluing it onto the inside cover of your notebook.
