Have you ever asked yourself, “How to Start a Junk Journal?” Are you ready to dive into the wonderful, messy, and completely magical world of junk journaling? If you love crafting, storytelling, or simply hoarding pretty scraps of paper (no judgment here!), then junk journaling is about to become your newest obsession.
In 2025, this creative way of expressing yourself is more popular than ever—blending nostalgia, self-expression, and upcycling into one beautiful journal. Whether you’re a seasoned journal keeper or a total newbie, this guide will walk you through seven easy steps to get started. Let’s turn those junk mail, old book pages, and scrap paper into a masterpiece!
1. Gather Your Supplies to Start a Junk Journal
Junk journaling is all about using what you have, so start by gathering supplies that excite and inspire you. Think old magazines, ticket stubs, magazine pages, scrapbook paper, and different types of papers like wrapping paper or vintage papers. If it sparks joy, it belongs in your journal!
Of course, you’ll also need the basics:
- A sturdy handmade book or old book cover
- Scissors (or a craft knife for precise cuts)
- Acid-free glue stick or double-sided tape
- Washi tape, stickers, and embellishments for extra decoration
Pro Tip: The more eclectic your collection, the more unique your own junk journal will be. Let your creativity guide you!
Product Recommendations:
• Junk Journal Starter Kit
• Assorted Vintage Postcards
Once you have your supplies, start organizing them in a way that makes sense to you. Some journalers like to keep everything sorted by color or theme, while others prefer a big, beautiful mess of materials ready to grab at a moment’s notice. Either way, gathering and organizing your supplies is the starting point of your junk journaling journey!
2. Choose Your Journal Base for Your Junk Journal
Your journal base is like the canvas for your creativity. Some popular types of journals include:
- Spiral-bound sketchbooks – easy to flip through and expand
- Handmade books – perfect for a rustic, vintage feel
- Repurposed old books – upcycling at its finest!
If you’re feeling extra crafty, you can even make your own journals by binding pages together. The key is to choose something that inspires you—your journal should feel like a space that’s completely your own.
Consider the inside cover and inside pages of your journal, as these will also become part of your artistic canvas. The front cover can be decorated with collages, fabric, or even favorite quotes to make it feel personal from the very start.
Product Recommendations:
• Spiral-bound blank journal
• Handmade leather journal
• Upcycled book crafting kit
3. Create a Theme (Or Don’t!)
Some journalers love a specific theme, while others prefer a free-spirited approach. If you like structure, consider themes like:
- Travel adventures – perfect for maps, tickets, and postcards
- Nature and botanicals – pressed flowers, earthy tones, and hand-drawn leaves
- Personal growth – affirmations, favorite quotes, and reflections
If you’re unsure where to start, a junk journal page inspiration board on Pinterest can be a great resource. But don’t stress too much—themes can evolve as you go. Sometimes, the best junk journal spread comes from spontaneous creativity!
4. Experiment with Collages in Your Junk Journal
Collage is the heart and soul of junk journal pages! Play with different textures, mix and match patterns, and embrace imperfections. Layering is key—combine:
- Old papers and junk mail
- Paper scraps and different papers
- Magazine pages, wrapping paper, and vintage papers
- Handwritten personal notes or Polaroid photos
Don’t be afraid to scribble, paint, or doodle on your pages. There are no rules here—just have fun! If you’re looking for junk journal inspiration, try searching for free printables online. Many artists and creators offer downloadable elements that you can print at home to add to your journal.
5. Incorporate Mixed Media
Want to take your fun junk journal to the next level? Mix in elements beyond just paper! Consider adding:
- Fabric journal covers or lace
- Buttons, charms, or small trinkets
- Watercolor splashes or acrylic paint accents
- Coffee or tea stains for a vintage look
Experimenting with different sizes and materials can make your unique journal feel truly one-of-a-kind. The more unexpected, the better! You can even use junk mail as a base for mixed media pages, layering paint and paper over it for a completely new look.
6. Add Personal Touches
A junk journal isn’t just about pretty pages—it’s a reflection of you. Make it meaningful by incorporating:
- Handwritten favorite quotes
- Snippets from your everyday life
- Polaroid photos or keepsakes
- Personal notes, ticket stubs, and pressed flowers
If you want to make your journal even more special, try using a fabric journal cover for a cozy, handmade touch. A beautiful journal is one that tells your story in a way that only you can.
7. Share Your Journey (Or Keep It Private!)
Junk journaling is a deeply personal and fun way to create art. Some people love sharing their creations on social media or in junk journaling communities, while others keep their journals as private treasures.
If you’d like to connect with fellow journal lovers, consider:
- Posting pages on Instagram or Pinterest
- Joining Facebook groups or online forums
- Trading journal pages with friends for junk journal page inspiration
Whatever you choose, just enjoy the process. Your themed junk journal is an ever-evolving work of art—let it bring you joy, creativity, and a space to be unapologetically yourself.
Final Thoughts
Junk journaling isn’t just a craft—it’s a great way to celebrate imperfections, find beauty in the unexpected, and turn everyday scraps into something extraordinary. With endless possibilities, there’s no right or wrong way to do it.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your supplies, start experimenting, and most importantly—have fun! Let your journal be your starting point for creativity, a space where inspiration and self-expression collide in the most beautiful way.
Happy journaling! ✨
Looking for possible journal prompts? Check out our ADHD prompts here.
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