Junk Journals: What They Are, How to Use Them, and What You Can Create

CraftywaftyStephen Sawyer
Junk Journals: What They Are, How to Use Them, and What You Can Create - Craftywaftyshop

Junk Journals: More than a Keepsake

Junk journals are beautifully imperfect, anything-goes handmade journals created from “found” and leftover materials—think book pages, packaging, envelopes, old letters, tickets, lace, fabric scraps, and offcuts from your craft stash. The charm is in the mix: layers, texture, and little surprises tucked into every page.

Unlike a traditional notebook, a junk journal is usually interactive. Pages can be stitched, clipped, or glued in; pockets and flip-outs invite you to add more over time. Some people make them as memory keepers, others as art journals, gratitude journals, travel logs, or purely for creative play.

If you’re curious to try one, you’ll find a curated range of papers, ephemera, stickers, stamps, dies, adhesives and embellishments in our Junk Journal collection: https://www.craftywafty.co.uk/collections/junk-journal

What exactly is a junk journal?

At its core, a junk journal is a handmade book built around reuse and storytelling. Many are made with:

  • A cover (chipboard, a repurposed book cover, or layered cardstock)

  • Signatures (bundles of pages sewn into the spine)

  • Mixed papers (scrapbook paper, tea-dyed sheets, vellum, music paper, ledger paper)

  • Interactive elements (tucks, pockets, tags, belly bands, flip-ups)

There’s no “right” size or style. Some are chunky and maximalist; others are minimal and vintage-inspired.

How are junk journals used?

Junk journals are meant to be handled, added to, and enjoyed. Common ways to use them include:

  • Memory keeping: Add photos, journaling, tickets, receipts, and little notes.

  • Creative journaling: Combine writing with collage, stamping, stencilling, and doodling.

  • Art practice: Test colour palettes, inks, paints, and techniques without pressure.

  • Planning with personality: Use spreads for lists, goals, habit tracking, or seasonal prompts.

  • Mindful crafting: Slow, tactile making—layering papers and textures can be wonderfully calming.

What can you create with a junk journal?

The fun is in the variety. Here are a few popular makes and page ideas:

  1. Collage spreads using patterned paper, book text, and ephemera.

  2. Pockets and tuck spots to hold tags, journaling cards, or mini letters.

  3. Flip-outs and fold-outs for longer stories, photos, or hidden messages.

  4. Tag sets (vintage, floral, seasonal) that can be swapped in and out.

  5. Interactive clusters made from lace, ribbon, buttons, and layered paper scraps.

  6. Themed journals—travel, Christmas, botanical, cottagecore, Halloween, or “a year in moments.”

Supplies that make it easier

While you can start with what you have, a few basics help everything come together:

  • Strong adhesive (tape runners, glue, or double-sided tape)

  • A mix of papers (patterned, neutral, and text-weight)

  • Ephemera and stickers for quick layering

  • Stamps/inks for instant detail

  • Dies for tags, labels, and decorative edges

If you’re ready to begin, browse our Junk Journal collection for inspiration and supplies: https://www.craftywafty.co.uk/collections/junk-journal

Junk journaling is creative freedom in book form—messy, meaningful, and completely yours. Start simple, follow your curiosity, and let your pages tell the story as you go.

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