I’ve already nattered about how immensely versatile junk journaling can be, along with the broader benefits of journaling in general, but the fact remains that, like scrapbooks, junk journals are often a great creative outlet for individuals seeking a unique and expressive way to document their thoughts, memories, and experiences.

While a lot of people will have very mixed-up junk journals that vary wildly in aesthetics between spreads, some people like their junk journal ideas a tad more organised and may split up certain themes between different sections or even different journals entirely. These are some of the most popular themed junk journal ideas I’ve seen – although by no means an exhaustive list, hopefully it will inspire you to get started yourself, if you haven’t already.

Vintage junk journals

A tribute to the past, capturing the essence of bygone eras through the use of nostalgic elements. Incorporating vintage photographs, postcards, sheet music, delicate lace, and even snippets of old letters, these journals evoke a sense of charm and history. By repurposing treasures both real and replica, you can create beautiful keepsakes that tell stories from another time. Vintage junk journals are perfect for anyone who appreciates the aesthetics and sentimentality of yesteryear (whatever year that happens to be)!

Nature inspired junk journals

Nature-inspired junk journals celebrate the beauty of the natural world. They incorporate elements such as pressed flowers, leaves, twigs, feathers, and other organic materials, or just ephemera that reflect those themes. Some people like to use them to capture the essence of an outdoor experience, whether a hike in the woods, a stroll along the beach, or even a simple nature walk. Collecting natural materials – and naturally themed materials (especially handy if you have allergies)and incorporating them into journals adds a unique touch and fosters a deeper appreciation for the environment and natural world around you.

Travel junk journals

Perfect for adventurers and globetrotters looking to preserve their travel memories, travel junk journals become visual diaries of journeys, holding tickets, maps, brochures, photographs, and handwritten notes. By combining these keepsakes, you can create tangible reminders of your experiences and let yourself relive your adventures (at least a little) through the pages. Some people also like to make travel-themed journals to plan trips, imagine their dream holiday, or just because they enjoy the aesthetic – and that’s fine too!

Collage junk journals

In many ways the quintessential basis of all junk journal ideas, collage journals embrace the art of layering and mixing different textures, colours, and patterns to create visually interesting pages. They often incorporate magazine cut outs, patterned paper, washi tape, and all kinds of other collage-y materials, giving a playful and experimental approach to journaling, where each page becomes its own little work of art. By combining different materials, you can make dynamic and visually striking layouts that reflect your unique style and creativity – however you happen to be feeling that day!

Minimalist junk journals

If you’re particularly into the hip and chic, a minimalist junk journal typically focuses on simplicity and clean design. It’ll typically feature a lot of neutral or pale pastel colours, minimalist illustrations, and limited but very selective embellishments. Some people like to think of these journals as providing a sense of calm, shifting the focus from the pages themselves to the content and reflections within. They’re good if you like a more streamlined and less cluttered aesthetic that offers more space for introspection and mindfulness.

Altered book journals

Altered book journals take junk journaling to a whole new level by repurposing old books as the foundation for creative expression. Pages are cut, ripped, and layered with various materials, transforming the book into a new and unique piece of art. Altered book journals are often used to provide a canvas for storytelling, letting you transform the original book into something entirely new and personal, and is great if you like browsing through thrift shops to find forgotten books tucked into hidden niches and in need of a new lease of life. I haven’t tried this particular flavour of junk journal idea just yet, but the wonderful YouTuber Treasure Books has some absolutely breath taking examples, like this lovely one shown in a flip through video… just gorgeous!

Fandom junk journals

Fandom-themed junk journals offer a thrilling and immersive way for fans to express their love and dedication to their favourite books, movies, TV shows, or bands. These journals are a fun platform to dive into your favourite blorbos and their worlds, capturing memorable moments, iconic quotes, and beloved characters in a tangible format. Think of it like an offline Tumblr!

Mixed media junk journals

These junk journals combine a variety of art techniques and materials, such as acrylic paints, ink, watercolours, stamps, stencils, and all kinds of other methods, giving endless possibilities for mixing up new types of creativity. They’re perfect for anyone who wants to explore a variety of mediums and techniques in their creative process, without worrying about the required “perfection” that doing a dedicated art piece can sometimes introduce as a stifling pressure.

Fantasy (or sci fi, or steampunk… etc!) junk journal ideas

Fantasy-themed junk journals let you dive into whatever whimsical or enchanting realms you might feel like, serving as gateways to other less mundane lands or worlds where all kinds of adventures can happen. Sometimes fandom related, sometimes not, fantasy junk journals can range in theme from traditional swords-and-sorcery to hardcore science fiction, or veer into more niche styles like steampunk, gothic horror, dark fantasy, or pretty much anything else off the contemporary and historical beaten path.

Poetry and lyric junk journals

Poetry-themed junk journals provide a less usual canvas for writers to express their emotions, thoughts, and musings through the art of words. If like me you’re constantly scribbling out little scraps of poetry or musings, rhyming or not, and wondering what to do with them, a poetry junk journal could be just what the muse ordered! If you’re not scribble-inclined, you might want to incorporate your favourites from others into your spreads – anything from inspirational song lyrics to haikus or even short micro-stories that make you enjoy and want to revisit.

Whether you’re drawn to vintage charm, inspired by nature, or intrigued by the possibilities of collage art and mixed media, there is sure to be a junk journal idea that will resonate with you. Embrace the joy of this totally freeform creativity and let your imagination roam wherever it will – it’s hard to struggle or get blocked when you can create absolutely anything from pretty much anything in order to build something uniquely yours that can say (or not say) anything you want it to.

The post Themed Junk Journal Ideas appeared first on Junk Journal Stuff.

A versatile tool that has become a staple in junk journaling is washi tape, with its myriad of colours, patterns, and textures, it can transform any journal spread from ordinary to extraordinary. Let’s look at some of the most fun ways to use washi tape in your journals with some inspiration and tips from my own experiences along the way.

Understanding washi tape and its uses

What is washi tape?

Washi tape originated in Japan and is made from natural fibres, such as bamboo or hemp. It is known for its delicate texture, beautiful designs, and low-tack adhesive that allows it to be easily removed without damaging the pages. Washi tape comes in a wide range of widths, lengths, and patterns, making it incredibly versatile for different crafting projects. If you’re interested in learning more I’ve got a whole blog on what washi tape is that covers a more detailed history of it.

Washi tape is both strong and thin, making it ideal for use in crafts and creative projects. Its adhesive properties don’t leave a sticky residue, making it easy to use and reposition if needed. Its sheer and semi-transparent nature adds dimension while allowing existing images and text on pages to show through. This makes it perfect for use in scrapbooking, journaling, card making, and all kinds of other paper crafts.

The benefits of using washi tape

• Colourful and versatile: Washi tape comes in a wide variety of colours, patterns and textures to coordinate with virtually any theme, holiday or season. Whether you’re creating a festive Christmas card or a summery page spread, there’s a washi tape that’ll work great for it.
• Affordable: Compared to other crafting supplies, washi tape is relatively cheap and can be found both online and in most craft stores. This makes it a great option for those on a budget who still want to add a touch of creativity to their projects beyond their collected “junk” ephemera.
• Easy to use: One of the best things about washi tape is how easy it is to work with. It can be easily cut, torn or layered to fit various sizes of paper or photos. It’s forgiving of removal and replacement, and excess can be easily stored (I recommend a sticker book) so there’s minimal wastage even if you overestimate the amount you need for a cut.
• Portable: Because of its compact size and lightweight nature, washi tape is relatively easy to store and transport. This makes it the perfect crafting supply to take with you on the go, and you can stash it easily in even the most compact home crafting space.

Choosing your washi tape

Types of of washi tape

There are endless possibilities when it comes to the types of washi tape available. You’ll find solid colours, polka dots, stripes, florals, animals, seasonal themes and even metallic and glittery finishes. Special sets can include: vintage, shabby chic, travel, or nature-inspired patterns and colours. Determine which look suits your style and theme best.

Picking colours and patterns

When choosing washi tape, it’s important to consider the overall aesthetic of your journal. Choose colours and patterns that complement each other, as well as align with the theme of the page. Avoid using too many contrasting patterns and colours, which can become overwhelming and draw attention away from your photos and content. Unless you want something that looks messy and chaotic, of course, which is perfectly valid!

Width and length of washi tape

The width and length of washi tape are important factors to consider when planning your project. Narrower tapes are ideal for creating borders or adding thin accents, while wider tapes can act as a background layer, title, or larger design feature. Keep in mind that washi tape can also be manually cut down the centre for a thinner strip or at various angles to create unique shapes and designs, although this can be tricky when trying to trim lengthwise at a clean angle.

How to use washi tape in your journal

Create borders or frames

One of the simplest and most effective ways to use washi tape in your junk journal is to create borders and frames. Select a tape that complements the theme or colon palette of your page and apply it to the edges. This technique instantly adds visual interest and draws attention to the focal point of your journal entry.

Decorating page dividers

If you’re making (or considering) page dividers in your journal to help organize different sections and add structure, you can use washi tape to decorate these dividers, adding pops of colour and patterned motifs. You can create unique designs by layering different tapes or alternating between thin and thick widths.

Secure photos and other ephemera

Use washi tape to secure things to your pages as an alternative to glue. The low-tack adhesive of washi tape ensures that photos and ephemera can be easily removed or repositioned without causing any damage, which is great for those of us who can be a little indecisive on placements while building spreads!

Create tabs and bookmarks

Tabs and bookmarks are useful for quickly accessing specific pages or sections in your journal, or just adding fun off-page accents. Cut small strips of washi tape, fold them in half, and attach them to the edge of a page. This creates a functional and decorative tab that makes navigating your journal a breeze or just provides some cool page edge texturing.

Add decorative borders

Washi tape is perfect for adding decorative borders to your journal pages. Choose tapes with intricate patterns or designs that complement the theme of your journal entry. Apply them to the edges of the page or use them to create unique shapes and patterns within the page itself, and don’t be afraid to tear things up, mix and match, or otherwise get a bit eccentric with it for maximum creativity.

Design backgrounds

Transform the background of your journal pages by using washi tape as a decorative element rather than relying solely on deco or backing papers. Apply strips of tape horizontally, vertically, or diagonally to create a vibrant and textured backdrop for your writing or artwork. Experiment with different combinations of colours and patterns to see what kind of unusual shapes and frames you can make.

Embellish handwritten text

A lot of people like to add handwritten text for a more personal touch to their junk journals, and you can enhance your handwritten words by adding strips of washi tape as accents. Use them to underline important points, create bullet points, or even as a decorative flourish at the beginning or end of a sentence. Plenty of washi tape can be written on easily too, giving you even more options.

Layer and collage

Washi tape is perfect for layering and collaging in your junk journal. Tear or cut small pieces of tape and layer them over each other to create visually stunning collages. Combine tapes with different textures, patterns, and widths for unique themes and eye-catching effects.

Create pocket pages or hinges

Pocket pages are a fantastic way to store small keepsakes, notes, or ephemera within your junk journal when you don’t want to permanently stick them down. You can easily use washi tape to create small pockets by folding the tape over on itself, leaving one side open, or use it to make hinged pages-in-pages that can be opened or lifted. It also works treat for holding down tags if you aren’t a fan of punches.

Repair or mask mistakes

Mistakes happen, but that doesn’t mean you have to start over. Washi tape can come to the rescue when you want to repair a tear, cover up an ink smudge, or simply add a touch of creativity to a mishap. Cut a small piece of washi tape, apply it over the mistake (you might need a couple of layers, depending on the nature of the boo-boo) and voila, your spread is saved. Thanks, washi tape!

Tips for working with washi tape

Storing and organisation

Invest in a washi tape organizer or create your own by using a recycled cardboard box or plastic divider to store your tapes. If your collection is often used and mixed up, try using a binder and sticking your collection directly onto paper sheets. This way, you can flip through and see all your different patterns and colours before you go rummaging in the actual rolls.

Cutting and tearing

Use scissors to cut washi tape to a desired length or shape. In theory you could use a paper trimmer, but I’ve yet to have much success doing it this way without making a huge mess! You may also want to overlap some strips or create a diagonal edge to make more intricate patterns. Washi tape can be torn by hand for a more unique and handmade look, and it doesn’t even leave your fingers very sticky.

Remove and reapply

If you make a mistake or want to move a piece of tape, gently remove it and apply again. Unlike traditional tape, washi tape can be reused without damaging delicate papers or surfaces so it’s ideal if you’re laying over sensitive materials like photographs, photo magazine scraps or painted details.

One of my favourite journaling YouTubers, the marvellously skillful Johanna Clough, has made an excellent video showing some amazing and creative ways to use washi tape in your journals, which is well worth a look!

Washi tape is one of those genuinely versatile things for making your junk journal into something special, and the possibilities with it are pretty much endless, limited only by your imagination. It’s both inexpensive and relatively forgiving so easy to experiment with, even if you run totally wild and just end up with a big and vaguely sticky mess. So grab some rolls and give it a go!

The post How To Use Washi Tape In Scrapbooks & Junk Journals appeared first on Junk Journal Stuff.

If you’re ready to dive into the wonderful world of washi tape, let’s get started with a nerdy little primer on the history of this incredibly popular stationery…

The origins of washi tape

It all started in the land of the rising sun, Japan. That’s right, washi tape has Japanese roots (if you didn’t know that already). But how did actually it come to be?

Traditional Japanese paper making

First, we have to talk about the star of the show: washi paper. This paper is made from the bark of the gampi tree, the mitsumata shrub, or the mulberry plant. The bark is pounded into a fine pulp, mixed with water, and then spread onto bamboo screens to dry. The result is a strong, durable paper with a beautiful texture and a subtle sheen, which comes in three main types or “flavours” depending on the plant it was made from: ganpishi, kozogami and mitsumatagami.

Washi paper has been used in Japan for over a thousand years, although like so much to do with papercraft it actually originated in China and was brought to Japan around around 610 CE by proselytizing Buddhist monks. It was originally used for calligraphy, but over time, it became a popular material for a variety of crafts. From origami to lantern-making, washi paper has been an important part of Japanese culture for centuries.

How washi tape happened

One day, someone had a brilliant idea: why not take this beautiful paper and turn it into tape? And just like that, washi tape was born. It’s made by adding adhesive to one side of the paper, creating a versatile and decorative tape that can be used for a variety of purposes. Despite the age of washi paper, the tape is actually a relatively modern invention, originally developed in 2006 by Kamoi Kakoshi Co, who originally made industrial tapes and insect traps but got an email from a group of women using masking tape in their book making projects. Dead chuffed by this creativity, the company invited the ladies to their factory and asked them what they’d want in a more custom sort of crafting tape…and voila! Washi tape was born.

Washi tape quickly became hugely popular in Japan, and it wasn’t long before it made its way to other parts of the world, where its popularity only further exploded. Today, it is used by crafters and artists all over the world as a favourite for scrapbooking, card-making, and other paper crafts, and it’s also used for decorating everything from notebooks to furniture as well as – of course – finding its way into the arsenals of nearly all scrapbook and junk journaling crafters.

One of the reasons washi tape is so popular is because of its versatility. It comes in a wide range of colours and patterns, making it easy to find the perfect tape for any project. And because it’s made from washi paper, it’s strong and durable, making it ideal for use in a variety of applications. It can be torn easily as well as cut with scissors or craft knives, comes in an enormous range from intricately decorated tapes with motifs and illustrations to simple background patterns or plain colours, and is manufactured so widely that it is often surprisingly inexpensive for its quality.

What to know about washi tape

So what exactly makes this pretty tape so special? For a start, it isn’t just any ordinary tape like cellotape or duct tape.; it is a versatile and decorative craft supply that can be used for a huge variety of purposes limited only by your imagination. From scrapbooking to gift wrapping, washi tape has become a popular choice for crafters and DIY enthusiasts around the world.

Material and texture

The tape is of course made from traditional Japanese paper, which is known for its strength and durability. The paper is made from natural fibres, which are generally renewable and eco-friendly. This gives washi tape a unique texture and appearance that sets it apart from other tapes. It’s thinner than standard tape, and has a slightly translucent quality that allows it to blend seamlessly with other materials. This makes it perfect for adding a decorative touch to journal spreads and pages.

I didn’t realise that that the word “washi” comes from the Japanese words “wa” meaning “Japanese” and “shi” meaning “paper” – literally “Japanese Paper.” it has been used in Japan for over 1,300 years and is an important part of Japanese culture which is why it has so many rich varieties and associations rather than just being any old decorative stationery.

Colours and patterns

One of the most appealing characteristics of washi tape is the wide range of colours and patterns it comes in. From solid colours to intricate prints, there’s something for every style. Just a few of the most popular patterns include polka dots, stripes, floral designs, and geometric shapes. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect washi tape for any project or page. I’m a particular sucker for the tiny illustrated tapes with butterflies or plants on them, as they’re useful for so many possibilities, but it’s pretty common to get “continuous” repeated loops as well, like music notes or even handwritten text.

Because it isn’t opaque, you can combo it up to create your own unique designs. By layering different colours and patterns on varied backgrounds, you can create a one-of-a-kind look that will fit pretty much any journal aesthetic you can imagine, which is incredibly useful.

Durability and stickiness

Despite its delicate appearance, washi tape is surprisingly strong and durable. It’s made from high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear while also being super easy to work with, making it perfect for long-term use. Additionally, the tape is gentle on surfaces, making it easy to remove without leaving behind any residue. This is especially important when using it on delicate background elements, such as paper or photographs, when you don’t want to leave “bits” behind.

Another great feature of is ease of repositioning. Unlike other tapes that lose their stickiness after being removed, washi tape can be repositioned multiple times without losing its adhesion. This makes it perfect for experimenting with different designs and layouts before you commit to a certain look for your spread – there’s a reason it is so popular with the try-and-adapt approach that junk journaling so often uses!

Tips for working with washi tape

It’s hardly the most complex material to get going with, hence its popularity, but here are a few things I’ve learned that would have been helpful to know when I first started fiddling about with washi tape for my initial junk journal.

Cutting and applying washi tape

When cutting, use sharp scissors to ensure a clean edge or, for a more “junky” or handmade look, you can generally tear it with your fingers to get a jagged or uneven, torn edge instead which works great for some aesthetics. To apply it, simply peel off the backing (if there is any; some rolls are just plain rolls you can use like regular tape) and place it on your project. If you make a mistake, don’t worry – washi tape can be easily removed and repositioned even when working with finicky materials like photographs. If you want to reuse sections you’ve already taken off a roll, you can store them on non-stick surfaces like wax kitchen paper and they’ll retain their adhesive. Handy!

You can even get washi sticker rolls which are individually cut stickers made of washi paper, rolled up tape style and ready to go, which is super neat. Just remember these still generally come out at least partially transparent, which is great for layering, but you may need to put the sticker onto a white background if you want the colour or pattern to really “pop out” on its own.

Storing and organising washi tape

Try searching for “washi tape storage” and you’ll be in there all week! There are all kinds of ways to store your washi tape, as it is resilient and hardy enough to not really need much special treatment. Keep it out of the sun so the prints and colours don’t fade… but otherwise that’s pretty much it. I started keeping mine in an old chocolates tin just so it wasn’t all over the place, then I got some special dispensers for the tapes I use most often so they sit on my craft desk and are easy to use. You can also get special segmented boxes or drawers with dividers that make it easy to find the tape you want, adapt household kit like kitchen roll holders or parchment paper boxes, use a thread rack, or just make your own washi tape storage system using simple dowel rods and string. It all depends how much space you have… well, and how much you’ve accumulated that needs storing…

There we have it – more than enough info and nerdy extra details to dive into using washi tape on your junk journal pages, spreads, covers, and wherever else you can think of. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or brand new to this whole making things malarkey, it really is one of those must-have materials that’s cheap, fun, and super easy to use, so grab some rolls and see what inspires you.

The post What Is Washi Tape? appeared first on Junk Journal Stuff.

Whether you’re a paper crafting aficionado or just getting started, I thought it would be useful to write up this guide on everything useful to know about fussy cutting. Some of these tips are stuff that would have made my life so much easier when I first got into junk journaling: so buckle up, grab a pair of scissors (the right pair, that is… more below) and let’s get on with it.

Understanding fussy cutting

Before diving into the world of fussy cutting, let’s take a moment to understand what it is. Fussy cutting is the process of selectively cutting out specific designs or shapes from a piece of paper, rather than cutting the paper as a whole. This technique is especially useful for scrapbooking, card making, quilting, and other paper crafts where precision and attention to detail are essential, and it’s definitely one of a junk journal crafter’s stock-in-trade techniques.

What is fussy cutting?

Well, I pretty much covered that above. But here’s a nifty fact – the term “fussy cutting” actually came from the quilting industry, where it was used to describe the process of carefully cutting individual pieces of fabric to create intricate designs. Papercraft borrowed/appropriated the term so now you’ll often find it used freely within both areas. Needless to say, do not get your paper fussy cut scissors mixed up with your fabric fussy cut scissors, if you’re doing both!

A short (unfussy) history of fussy cutting

While the term may be relatively new, the technique of fussy cutting has been around for centuries. In fact, some of the oldest examples of fussy cutting can be found in Chinese and Japanese paper art, where intricate designs were carefully cut out by hand using tiny scissors and knives.

Chinese paper cutting, also known as Jianzhi, dates way back, potentially as far as the 2nd century AD, and is still a popular art form today. The intricate designs and patterns created by these fussy cutting techniques were/are often used to decorate homes and temples, and also given as gifts to friends and family, especially on festive occasions.

In Japan, the art of paper cutting is known as Kirigami or kimie, and is technically a variant on the more famous origami, with the main difference being that the paper is cut as well as folded. Some modern Kirigami art can result in three dimensional designs that stand out from the page (this was pioneered in the 1980s by Nahoko Kojima) without using glue.

Many other cultures have a history of artistic expression with cut paper, often heavily influenced by the ancient Chinese traditions. For example in Indonesia there is batik, generally framed in profile to highlight the intricate details that are cut out, along with a rich cultural history of Jewish paper cutting, which is even now sometimes used to decorate traditional marriage contracts, tissue paper focused papel picado in Mexico, plus Wycinanki (or Vytynanky) in Slavic countries like Poland and Ukraine, and many more. So safe to say this isn’t a new art by any means!

Fussy cutting vs traditional cutting

Let’s be real here – regular, old-fashioned cutting is boring. Anyone can do it with a bit of patience and some half decent scissors. But fussy cutting? That’s where you start feeling less like a kid in preschool and more like a Proper Crafter! With fussy cutting, you have complete control over the design and layout of your project.

Not only does fussy cutting allow you to create unique designs, but it also adds an extra level of detail and dimension to your projects. By selectively cutting out specific designs or shapes, you can create a layered effect that adds depth and interest to any journal page or spread, and the right combinations can give some really eye-popping results, whatever your chosen aesthetic.

Essential fussy cutting tools

Now that you’re ready to become a fussy cutting master, you’ll need to gather your tools. Here are the essentials:

The right scissors for fussy cutting

The most important tool in any fussy cutter’s arsenal is a good pair of scissors. Look for scissors with small, fine points to ensure maximum precision when cutting out intricate designs. And while it may be tempting to skimp on price, investing in a good quality pair of scissors will pay off in the long run.

It’s also important to keep your scissors sharp. Dull scissors can cause ragged edges and ruin even the most carefully cut designs. Consider investing in a small sharpening tool to keep your scissors in top condition.

Another factor to consider when choosing scissors is comfort. Fussy cutting can be a time-consuming process, so look for scissors that feel comfortable in your hand and won’t cause cramping or fatigue. Rubberised handles may not be the prettiest thing in the world, but your fingers will thank you after a long cutting session.

The other consideration is the size of the scissors – when dealing with very fine detail you don’t want to be wrestling with a big set with long blades, as this makes things a lot harder to control. Small, short bladed embroidery scissors are a popular choice used by many YouTube journaling crafters. For really fine detail you might prefer to use a craft knife or scalpel, which leads us nicely onto…

The importance of cutting mats

When it comes to fussy cutting, a good cutting mat is essential. Not only will it help protect your work surface from damage, but it will also provide a smooth, even cutting surface that will make the cutting process smoother and more precise, especially when using direct blades rather than scissors.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a cutting mat. First, consider the size. You’ll want a mat that’s large enough to accommodate the size of the paper you’ll be cutting, but not so large that it takes up too much space on your work surface. You may also want a mat with a grid or ruler printed on it to help measure and line up cuts accurately, especially if you do a lot of straight line work rather than wigglier patterns.

Other useful tools for fussy cutting

While scissors and cutting mats are the most important tools for fussy cutting, there are a few other items that can be helpful. For example, a pair of tweezers can be useful for handling tiny pieces of paper, while a ruler or straight edge can help you create perfectly straight lines – get one with a nice safety ridge for your fingers to avoid whoopsies. I’d hugely recommend a metal ruler if you want to do a lot of straight-edging, as especially when using a knife or scalpel you can often wind up with weird shapes as the sharp blade takes the edge of the durn ruler as well as running through the paper!

Also don’t forget about storage. Keeping your tools organized and easily accessible will save you time and frustration in the long run. Whether you just dedicate a specific draw or shelf for all your bits and bobs, or invest in a more substantial tool caddy or storage box to keep your fussy cutting supplies in one place, it’s a lot better (and safer) to know where things are than have to keep rummaging when you’re in the middle of a project.

Tips and techniques for perfect fussy cutting

Now we’re all tooled up, let’s talk fussy cutting techniques and tips. You can just set blade to paper and go, but these handy helper suggestions might make life a bit easier as you go.

Preparing the paper

Before you start cutting, it’s important to prepare your paper. Make sure it’s flat and free from wrinkles or creases. If you’re working with patterned paper, plan out your design in advance to ensure that you’re only cutting out the parts you want (and are including the parts you want). It’s annoying to have just finished a cut and then realise you accidentally missed off a part of the pattern you did want to include, and have to glue-jigsaw it together like a puzzle on your page.

Mastering precision cutting

When it comes to fussy cutting, precision is absolutely key. Take your time and cut slowly and carefully, using small, controlled motions to ensure that you’re cutting out exactly what you want. Squeeze the scissors slowly, and move the paper around your hand and the blade, not your hand around the paper – this is really useful for maintaining control. Also make sure you cut from the base of the scissor blades, don’t “snip” using the tips. You’ll want to angle the scissors against the paper, too, so you can clearly see the design as you cut, rather than having to constantly crane your neck around using a more conventional edge-on positioning.

Tips for Cutting Intricate Designs

If you’re working with intricate designs, it can be helpful to start by cutting out the larger pieces first, and then moving on to the smaller, more detailed pieces. And remember – practice makes perfect. The more you fussy cut, the better you’ll become. If you’ve got a big project to do, consider “warming up” on some more forgiving fussy cuts before you tackle the big piece, to help get yourself into the right headspace and stretch out your hands.

How to fussy cut

Here’s an example of a distinct shape that I wanted to cut out from its background for a journal spread; the rose. I don’t have anything against the backing, but I wanted the flower to pop on its own, so the plan is to cut roughly around where the red line is on this photo (not actually part of the image, I just added that to show what I mean).

I start by getting rid of the excess background so I have less paper to wrestle with.

With the bulk excess gone, I can trim more carefully around the shape itself.

Now I’ve not got a ton of excess paper flopping about, I can get into the specifics of the fussy cut itself, starting with the smaller and more self-contained edges around the petals which are simpler to separate out.

Now I finish up the detail, using small and careful squeezes while moving the shape around my hand, as mentioned above, and the rose has been successfully extracted from the background!

It’s also important to note that you might not want to fussy cut right to the edge for every shape, either because it doesn’t match the look you’re going for, or the shape itself won’t really work like this (for example if it has very fine details or “spindly” elements that would mean it falls apart). This more intricate rose pattern, for example, has some tiddly little flowers on it that would be an absolute devil to fussy cut out. I could exclude them and essentially cut the smaller bits “off” the main shape, but for this particular spread I’d rather have the whole arrangement included.

By instead cutting around the shape but leaving a thin outline of the background (in this case white, but it could be anything) I can capture the whole image for the spread without ruining the aesthetic I want by slapping down the whole image and background.

Here are the two flower fussy cuts on part of the spread – slightly different effects, but both still work well for the overall aesthetic I wanted for this page.

And there you have it – everything you could possibly need to know about fussy cutting. Mix and match techniques, borderless or with borders, plain stuck or on fresh backgrounds, and see what you can create. Even if you do snip more than you mean, you can still generally get your shape back with a little careful gluing so be gentle with yourself and remember practice makes, if not perfect, much better!

The post The Art of Fussy Cutting: How to Perfectly Cut Paper for Crafting appeared first on Junk Journal Stuff.

The origins of glue books

The concept of glue books, also known as art journals, scrapbooks or visual journals, dates back to ancient times. In the Middle Ages, monks would create illuminated manuscripts by hand, embellishing pages with illustrations, calligraphy, and gold leaf. These manuscripts were not only a form of artistic expression but also a way of preserving important texts and knowledge for future generations.

As time passed, the practice of keeping a visual record of one’s life continued. In the 19th century, scrapbooks became popular among the general public. Busy housewives would collect and paste images and quotes from magazines onto pages in their free time, creating an early form of glue books. These scrapbooks were not only a way to pass the time but also a way to document important events and memories, and even remember the name of that nifty product you saw in a magazine that you wanted to look at or buy later!

Early forms of glue books

The 20th century saw the evolution of glue books into a more artistic form. Artists such as Pablo Picasso started keeping a type of art or sketch journal known as a “carnet” (one famous example is his Carnet Californie). This was a portable notebook filled with sketches, ideas, and musings that they would carry with them everywhere they went, not only to capture ideas but also a way to experiment with different techniques and materials.

Other artists, such as Henri Matisse and Kurt Schwitters, created collages using found objects and scraps of paper; Schwitters in particular became very well known for his collages, which he called “Merz pictures.” This led to the evolution of glue books as we know them today. Glue books are now extremely popular in art, craft and general hobbyist circles as a way to nurture skills or just encourage and develop self expression.

The evolution of glue books

Glue books have come a long way since their humble beginnings. Today, they are not only a way to document important events and memories but also a way to express yourself creatively. With the rise of social media platforms such as Instagram and Pinterest, glue books have become even more popular, with people sharing their creations online for inspiration and motivation – and in fact you could argue that platforms like that are essentially “digital glue books” for the online age!

Glue books can be used to explore different themes, such as travel, nature, or personal growth. They can also be used as a form of journaling therapy, helping individuals to express their emotions and process their thoughts. Some people even use glue books as a way to plan and organize their lives, creating pages dedicated to goals, to-do lists, and schedules; bullet journals are one of the most popular and well-known incarnations of this style.

Components of a Glue Book

Before you start your own glue book, it’s important to understand the basic components that go into making one.

Choosing a glue book base

The first step in creating a glue book is choosing the right base. This can be a blank notebook, a sketchbook, or even a recycled book that you modify to suit your needs. It’s important that the pages are sturdy enough to handle the weight of the materials you will be gluing onto them. Don’t go for that nifty antique tome you found for cheap without suitable thought, as it may just fall apart! Remember also that most glue books become quite thick because of the addition of materials to each page, so you might want something that has flexible binding, or that you can just easily remove some pages or signatures from so you don’t end up with something that’s near-impossible to store.

Adhesives for glue books

The next step is to choose the right adhesive – the sticky stuff! There are many types of adhesives that can be used in glue books, including glue sticks, double-sided tape, and even liquid glue. Make sure to choose an adhesive that is acid-free to prevent damage to the materials over time. It’s also worth remembering that not all glue is created equal – the cheap discount stuff may work mostly okay in the short term but I find it often doesn’t go as far and doesn’t stick as well as something you might spend a little bit more on. Personally I recommend good ol’ fashioned brand Pritt Stick if you can afford it!

Glue book tools and materials

There are a few essential bits and bobs you will need to get started, including scissors, a ruler, a pencil, and some “stuff” to glue onto your pages. The “stuff” can be basically anything; magazine cut outs, photographs, stickers, washi tape, whatever! Think outside the box and see if you can use other things like scraps of fabric, ribbons, or even dried flowers, to add texture and interest to your pages.

The purpose of a glue book

The beauty of glue books is that they can be used for all kinds of purposes. Whether you’re looking for a way to express your creativity, capture memories, or simply de-stress and unwind, there’s a type and style of glue book that will do the job for you.

Creative expression

Glue books are a great way to express your creativity and experiment with different styles and techniques. You can create pages around specific themes, mix and match with colours and/or textures, or just go totally wild and see what your imagination makes.

Memory keeping or organisation

Glue books are also a fantastic way to document things and preserve memories. You can create pages around specific events or simply document your daily life. Some people use glue books to memorialise loved ones or pets who have passed away. You could even use them to collect images you just like to look at; fashion, food, cute animals, or pretty much anything else. Glue books can even be practical if you combine them with functional elements like recipes or financial planning, and can make something normally seen as an organisational chore into something more entertaining and fun.

Stress relief and mindfulness

Finally, glue books can be a great way to de-stress and practice mindfulness. Creating art has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety and improving mood; and that’s any type of art, which includes something as simple and accessible as glue books. A lot of people also like the collecting aspect of glue books, always watching for eye-catching pieces to add to an existing theme or spark a new page idea, which is a nice way to start literally “looking” at the world in a more creative and positive way.

Different styles of glue books

There are pretty much endless styles and types of glue books, depending on what you’re looking to achieve and how you want to feel while you make yours. Here are some of the most popular types.

Themed glue books

Themed glue books focus on specific topics or subjects. For example, you could create a travel-themed glue book to document your adventures, or a gratitude-themed glue book to focus on the things you’re thankful for.

Abstract glue books

Abstract glue books are all about exploring colour, texture, and form. You can experiment with different materials and techniques to create unique and visually stunning pages that are also fun to run your fingers across (and the sensory variation can be fab for non-neurotypical folks to enjoy too)!

Mixed media glue books

Mixed media glue books combine different art forms and techniques, such as painting, drawing, and collage. They can be a fun way to experiment with different mediums and push your creativity to the next level, and are often called scrapbooks or (ta-da, we got there in the end!) junk journals, depending on how you approach them (and what you’d prefer to call them, frankly, as the rules are far from hard and fast).

Get started on your own glue book

Now that we’ve nosed around the history and basics of various incarnations of glue books, you can feel all smart and snazzy and super-informed when you go to start your own. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and let your creativity flow. Whether you’re using your glue book as a form of self-care, a way to document your life, or simply as a creative outlet, glue books, scrapbooks, junk journals and all the various other types offer endless possibilities for expression and fun. See what you feel like sticking down first!

The post What Is A Glue Book? appeared first on Junk Journal Stuff.

The term “aesthetic” gets thrown around a lot in scrapbooking and journaling. People talk about “aesthetic” journals, or a journal or page/spread with a specific “aesthetic,” and if you’ve been lurking around many of these communities you’ve probably seen this mentioned before.

Aesthetics (or esthetics, as it is sometimes spelled) is officially “the philosophical study of beauty and taste” – a posh way of saying that art as a concept is (philosophically at least) is of a highly variable nature and there are lots of different ways of evaluating, consuming and interpreting any given individual piece of art, from a fine painting to a doodle on a napkin.

In a more modern sense aesthetics are sometimes said to be the core principles of any given design which define what makes it pleasing to the viewer. An aesthetic can feature particular uses or combinations of colours (and the balance of their use), lighting, movement and pattern, scale, shapes, objects and overall mood. If you’ve heard people say that something has a certain “vibe” or “feel” to it then that’s often what they mean – something with a lot of florals in red and pink might have a “romantic feel” or something with a lot of old architecture, black and baroque patterns might have a “gothic vibe.” An aesthetic is just a more formal term for that.

Anything can have “an aesthetic” to it and similarly things described as aesthetic (“that journal is so aesthetic”) are just things meant to be appreciated for their appeal or beauty. Might be art, might be architecture; a dress or suit, a decorated cake, even the way someone has arranged veggies on a platter, everything can be considered aesthetic to some degree or other. Some aesthetics have historic or cultural significance (such as Iki, a Japanese concept relating to subtle displays of taste and wealth), some are amalgams of historic and fictional (like Decopunk, a cool combination of roaring 1920s art deco mixed in with pulp sci-fi elements), while some are driven from highly contemporary looks or tropes from social media, memes, emerging societal sub-groups, and pop culture, especially music (for example, Vaporwave or Voidpunk).

What this all adds up to is the idea of creating a journal (or scrapbook, or notebook, or whatever it is you’re creating) that is “more aesthetic” – i.e. enjoyable to look at, not just something purely functional with the bare bones of what it needs to work. Needless to say this is a pretty big part of junk journaling, since it is so visual, but it can also apply to bullet journals (or bujos, as they’re affectionately called by aficionados) and any other kind of journaling you might be getting up to.

Aesthetic Journal Ideas

Deciding exactly which type of the many, many, many aesthetics you enjoy and might want to theme a page, spread or even entire journal on is a process of inspiration and experimentation, but when it comes to that classic Youtuber-style soft and gorgeous journal aesthetic (yeah, not all of them have catchy names, some are just descriptors!) here are some tips to get you started…!

• Theme your pages and spreads (or your entire journal, if you want)! It could be as broad as “nature” or “green” or as specific as “space whales swimming through the astral sea” but having definitive themes in mind can really help steer you in terms of making things more aesthetic. Try starting with a single image or concept/piece of paper and then build on it from there using connections like colour or mood or topic, or just sort your inventory by colours and go nuts.
• Set the mood with aesthetic photos. If you’re scavenging your junk journal you can probably find something from magazine clippings that helps pull focus and really set the tone of a spread – a nice scenic sky at sunset, or a moody monochrome old house, for example (it’s another reason I really like using photography magazine clippings for my inventory). You can also buy aesthetic themed packs from places like Etsy or Amazon, or even make your own if you have a good colour photo printer on hand.

• Make use of colours. Monochrome is its own kind of look and feel of course, but it can get a bit monotonous (ha!) so most of the prettiest journals will make more use of colours. Soft pastels are popular for that dreamy sort of look, but if you prefer things to really stand out you might want to go vibrant, or maybe combine the two for a pastel background with pops of bright or bold as accents.
• Try out gradients. From soft pastel to vibrant rainbows, gradients can give some much-needed depth to spreads that might be looking a bit flat with blocks of colour, and they also make excellent background sheets. Experiment with complementary gradients versus contrasting ones for different effects; what looks dreamlike and gentle on a green-to-blue can become slick and punky on a blue-to-red, for example.
• Slap on some washi tape. This papery decorative sticky tape is a staple of journaling, comes in a range of colours and styles (and aesthetics!) and is generally pretty cheap. You can get narrow washi tapes that can be separators or borders, or extra-wide ones that act as self-contained background papers. Some are little rolled works of art, some are just colours, some are geometric… see what you can find and slap it on – as accents, as page borders, as frames, even as little scraps to make it look like your other spread pieces are taped up like they would be on a noticeboard.
• Mix up texture with other embellishments. Buttons, beads, brads, fabric scraps, textured card or paper, dried flowers… it’s all fair game as junk journal inventory anyway, and adding in different elements not only gives interest to your spreads but can really drive home a particular aesthetic and theme if you’re selective about what you add. Make sure you use the right glue though – paper-friendly Pritt Stick won’t hold everything down properly!

• Add some stickers as accents. Stickers are great! Yes, they cost money (unless you have a fancy Circut machine or something to make your own, you hedonist) but often not much, and they can bring in all kinds of extra aesthetics from flowers to animals to little symbols and icons like arrows or even emojis. Plus they often have different textures, from gloss or matte to puffy or glittery or holographic, which can help tie a spread together or throw in something that really stands out.
• Mix up your words. Using a mix of handwriting or calligraphy, printed word or phrase stickers, stamps, or even label makers (I really like the typewriter-style effect of a Dymo embossed label!) you can add different textures and feels to the wordy bits of your journal. Glass dip ink, fountain pens, date or letter stamps in different colours… all can add that little something different and extra to give your journal a real vibe.

Hopefully that gives you some ideas and inspiration to get started with. There are basically an infinite number of aesthetics you can adopt for your journal, and you can mix and match to make something your own as much as you want – as long as you’re enjoying the process of creating, and keep experimenting until you also love what comes out when you’re done… it’s literally impossible to do it wrong!

The post What Are Journal Aesthetics? appeared first on Junk Journal Stuff.

“Wellness” is one of those thorny topics that everyone (and their mum) seems to have an opinion on, and advice to offer, and some special secret sauce that will magically dispel all your woes and result in a life of sunshine and unicorns. The benefits of journaling is definitely one of those things that comes up a lot in such conversations. Big sites like Healthline and WebMD tout it as the best thing for mental health since sliced bread (not that sliced bread has particular mental health benefits, as far as I know) and it gets held up as some magical heal-all that will turn even the most gnarly and disorganised brain into the pinnacle of operational efficiency.

Does it work in the real world? Well, as with so many other things, the answer is often “it depends” and can be very subjective.

Journaling as a health benefit

The medical evidence is, to be fair, pretty darn sound, and we’re talking about proper studies here rather than some wiffly nonsense from popular psychology. Just a few of the health boosts commonly cited as benefits of journaling include

Reducing stress: it’s pretty common knowledge now that stress does a number on your body, but people who do some kind of journaling or expressive writing, even for as little as fifteen minutes three times over four months (hardly a heavy daily commitment!), have notably improved liver functionality and lower blood pressure. It was shown to reduce stress during the worst of COVID-19 lockdowns, and can even help with symptoms of anxiety and depression. Hard to argue with that.

Boosting immune system: say whaaat? But yep, journaling apparently strengthens immune cells which makes you less likely to get sick, and can even reduce the effects of ongoing conditions such as asthma and arthritis. As if that wasn’t enough, any form of expressive writing (writing specifically, that is) can improve liver and lung function or combat some diseases, and there are reports it can even help people with physical wounds actually heal faster.

Helping with memory: some kind of journaling helps keep your brain in much better shape, boosting both memory and general comprehension. Writing things down by hand changes and improves the way your mind processes things, and makes them easier to remember – plus of course if you’re focusing on something, be it a particular idea or a general thought, you’re more likely to remember it. It also benefits something called “working memory capacity” – think of it like your short term active memory for something you’re doing or have just done – which improves your overall ability to think. Neat, huh? It’s like a big brain workout!

Improving mood: sometimes called the “Bridget Jones effect,” for those who like their early 00s movie references, keeping a journal or diary not only improves your mood in the short term, but can also give a greater overall sense of happiness and wellbeing, as well as a better ability to overcome bad emotions and things that make you upset. Sounds like a nice bonus. And on the same note…

Having healthier emotions: if you do any kind of journaling over a prolonged period, turning it into a habit, you become more in tune with your general health and your inner needs and desires. This is more often called mindfulness, helping you be both more immediately present in your life while also aiding perspective by providing more opportunities for expressing yourself freely – aka emotional catharsis – which helps your brain to better regulate your emotions.

Improving confidence: right up there with healthier emotions and mood is confidence, often tied closely to stuff to do with self-identity. This sounds a bit fruity until you stop and think about it – while journaling a negative experience helps you move through it by rationalising it, journaling a positive experience is a form of reliving it, which affirms it in your brain. The next time self doubt appears, your brain can then point to that relived affirmation and be all “hey, you, actually you’re awesome!” which gives you a kick of dopamine and endorphins.

Increasing skills: there’s a growing body of evidence that baseline intelligence can be changed and improved with certain activities such as writing. Whenever you’re doing something creative, you’re exploring ideas and challenging yourself, which in turn boosts your raw intellectual capacity. Maybe you learn something accidentally because you boost your vocabulary by discovering new words to journal with, or maybe you discover a whole new art form when you’re scrapping up a magazine to add to your journal. Either way, you’re upskilling.

Achieving goals: dreams and ambitions are as much as part of many journaling types as wants and fears. You might think that the idea of writing stuff down helps you to achieve it seems nuts, but nobody would try to build a house without a blueprint, right? If you write stuff down, it’s a big flag to your brain that it’s important (that’s why it also boosts memory) which causes certain subconscious things to happen that will steer you towards that goal – for example you might notice an opportunity relevant to your goal that you’d ordinarily overlook, or realise something could be a tool to help you achieve things when you’d normally write it off. This is called your reticular activating system and it basically governs how you pay attention to things. Neat, huh?

What journaling does for me

I’m not in the habit of testing my liver function or taking IQ or memory tests on the regular, so I can’t honestly tell you if I get all those snazzy benefits of journaling that are outlined above, but from a real world perspective I can tell you what I do get out of it!

Relaxation: I find journaling relaxing. It lets me be alone with my thoughts and reflect while also doing something, which saves a lot of the usual “oh god I’m just sitting here” guilt spiralling that I get with other mindfulness-type techniques like meditating, while also getting me away from anything digital or otherwise “on a screen” (which is a problem for a lot of my other relaxation hobbies like writing or video games). The activities around junk journaling itself could be argued to be semi-meditative in and of themselves, like cutting things out or browsing magazines purely for pictures, which probably helps too!

Creativity: I do a lot of writing, but sometimes my brain decides that words are Not Going To Be A Thing today. This leaves me with a sort of pent-up creative urge that I can’t properly deal with – a kind of writer’s block style constipation – which severely impacts my mood and often sends me into a spiral of depression because I feel unproductive as well as blocked. With journaling, I can still do something creative to scratch that itch, and I often find that my writer’s block goes away much more easily when I’m not actively trying to write… so weirdly, by taking up a new hobby, my old one has become both easier and more productive!

Those two things may seem like small beans compared to all the amazing potential that journaling has according to science, but for me they’re honestly borderline life-changing in an everyday sense! I’ve tried more traditional written journaling before but could never really keep it up as simply sitting and writing about my day always felt too much like a chore, but expressing those similar principles of reflecting and thinking into the medium of junk journaling works much better for me. I can sum up my feelings and thoughts with imagery instead, I get the added magpie-style bonus of being able to collect and collate pretty things, and I can add words to my journal too, whether it’s a single line, a bit of a poem, a scribble in the margins, or something more in depth.

That flexibility and freedom to create with no real rules just feels wonderful. I hope it inspires you to create a junk journal of your own to see what benefits you get from it!

The post Why Journal Anyway? The Benefits of Journaling appeared first on Junk Journal Stuff.

You’ve cooed over the YouTube videos, you’ve admired the Instagram feeds, you’ve drooled at the Pinterest boards… so you’ve finally taken the plunge and decided to try making your own. How to start a junk journal really isn’t that complicated, but it can feel a bit overwhelming just like any new hobby, so don’t feel embarrassed! There’s all the exciting supplies you might want to buy (vs the budget you actually have to buy them, of course…), getting stoked for an all-new hobby, kicking your creative brain into gear… but then you’re staring at a heap of empty paper. So, now what?

1. Collate your inspiration: follow those Youtubers, make that Pinterest board, or just bookmark all the stuff you like in your browser! Some people do tutorials, while others just do showcases or ASMR videos for all the crinkly paper noises. Whatever your taste, log it all somewhere so you’re never short of inspirational ideas.
2. Assemble your stuff (the bare basics are covered in this post about junk journal supplies for beginners): at the very least you’ll need some paper or a notebook, some glue, scissors, and some “junk” to stick, like cuttings from magazines or newspapers, or ticket stubs, or anything else like that. You don’t need to buy a ton of stuff to get going!
3. Get sticking! If you’re starting with a pre-made notebook rather than literally making your own journal (which I’d recommend for beginners anyway) you can literally just start cutting and sticking your “junk” right off the bat. There’s no right or wrong way, really. Use repeated patterns as backgrounds, layer up with more detailed pieces, add blank “bulk” pieces like tags or labels… or just go wild and see where your creativity takes you.
4. Experiment with more materials. Once you’ve got your first few spreads down you might want to try adding stitching, for example by sewing together paper or fabric scraps to create interesting shapes or texture combinations. Add in different matte or glossy finishes. Stick (or sew) on things like buttons, lace, ribbon, seashells, feathers, pressed flowers… whatever you like.
5. Add to your hoard. Once you get going you’ll find that all kinds of potential junk will start catching your eye as potential additions to your collection for future spreads and pages. That crappy junk mail? Those supermarket newspapers? Old receipts? Interesting sweet wrappers? It can all go into your stash for future use, and that’s just the free stuff – you can also look into collecting stickers and deco paper and other ephemera “stuff to stick” on places like Amazon or Etsy or eBay (and many more) if you want to expand your options and lean into certain aesthetics or themes. You can also get printable digital things to cut out and add to your journal.
6. Branch out and try different types, sizes or themes of journal. You might have more than one on the go at once. Maybe one is a bit 12×12 scrapbook type size and one is a tiddly little mini journal only a couple of inches high. Maybe one is vintage botanical and another is nouveau modern art. Vary it up and challenge yourself with different shapes, sizes and types of spreads or layouts to keep your creativity fresh.
7. Share with the community! You may not be equipped (or inclined) to start your own YouTube ir Tiktok video channel, but you can share pics of your journal easily on platforms like Pinterest, Instagram and other platforms. Look for obvious hashtags like #junkjournal or #journaling to find even more ideas from fellow journalers.
8. Organise your supplies. Rather than just chucking it all into a drawer or box, some people find just as much enjoyment from organising and arranging their journaling stash as from the journaling itself. You can get expanding folders and boxes and files and all kinds of things to nicely arrange and display your supplies and journals, especially if you’re lucky enough to be able to set aside some kind of designated crafting space where you live.
9. Expand your repertoire of related skills. Maybe you’ve got a hankering to make your own stickers, dye your own paper, or create your own die cuts, and want to explore specialist machines or techniques for broader papercraft. Perhaps you’ve been hit by the sewing bug and want to learn some new stitch types or patterns to liven up your spreads or booklets. Maybe you even want to try selling your journals on sites like Etsy or eBay so other people can enjoy your creations (and help fund your hobby). Whatever has taken your fancy, there are tons of ways to learn more with a quick search for tutorials or ideas, so go forth and get even more creative.
10. Keep at it! If you’ve made it to the end of this to-do list you’re already well on the way to making the most of junk journaling as a hobby, and hopefully have picked up plenty of creative skills and enjoyment along the way. Maybe you’ve split off into scrapbooking too, or delved into the more involved world of book binding. Either way, remember that as long as you’re having fun, you’re definitely not doing it wrong.

The post How to Start a Junk Journal appeared first on Junk Journal Stuff.

Junk journaling is a great way to combine the art of scrapbooking with the urge to collect pretty things while also preserving memories, getting your emotions down, and just plain making something if you struggle with other forms of arty-type expression (like I do). Even better, it doesn’t take a ton of money to get started so as a hobby has a super low cost entry point. Let’s talk junk journal supplies for absolute beginners: the absolute and bar bones must-haves to get you going from a standing (or sitting) start.

The absolute basics of junk journal supplies

I was a bit lost when I first decided to try junk journaling. Do I need a woosit or a whatsit or a thingamibob? What type of glue should I use? Do I need a fancy leather notebook like those Youtube people I follow? Is that funny roller glue sticky stuff a must? Where do I get the pretty paper? But fear not, you can actually get started with basic junk journal supplies very simply.

Paper or a notebook

You won’t get far without this. Purists will insist on stapling or fastening paper sheets yourself to get the 100% verified “junky feel” but it absolutely isn’t necessary to become a book binder overnight if you don’t want to. Regular printer-type office paper is fine. Bonus green creds if you use the recycled stuff. If you want to go slightly fancier then it isn’t hard to get some more unusual “base paper” without spending a lot more, for example parchment effect paper or some colourful craft paper. Personally I’m a sucker for the handmade stuff with deckle edges but this is understandably a bit pricier!

Glue some odds and ends from old newspapers or magazines to your paper, fasten the paper together somehow (staples, string, just folding) and in theory boom, you’re off. Easy peasey! Alternatively, you might prefer to have something a bit more resilient than just sheets of paper to start with, in which case you can opt to use a notebook. Literally any old notebook will do – it doesn’t have to be fancy or leather bound or have some posh embroidered cover or whatever. It can be lined or unlined or gridded or kraft brown paper, or whatever else you like. Of course the classic junk journal YouTube look tends to involve a Traveller’s Journal, which is a leather sleeve with cords and refillable inserts, but a good one of those (plus refills, cos those inserts don’t have a ton of pages) can set you back quite a bit more!

More “scrapbook” type binds can be great too – spiral bounds can be more forgiving for newbies although some people don’t like them as much because of the “break” they put into spreads. Again you could go totally bananas here if you want to with an all-singing, all-dancing album with a fancy cover and pockets and ties, but a basic scrapbook-type malarkey will do you fine. In either case, try to avoid the really super-cheap stuff as mega thin paper/pages won’t hold up too well once you get the glue out!

Glue

Sticking things in is a pretty fundamental part of junk journals, so… yeah. I guess you could use tape if you wanted to, but glue is generally preferable for preserving the facing texture of your various bits. I honestly just use good ol’ Pritt Stick or whatever non-brand equivalent I can find. There are various applicators and rollers and all kinds of fancy-bum type things you can get which a lot of the Youtubers use, but I get on fine with just a glue stick.

For heavier items like cardstock or fabric you might want to use PVA or a similar equivalent but I’d honestly use the glue stick for most thin/papery stuff so you don’t end up with wrinkly pages. Well, unless that’s the aesthetic you’re going for, of course!

Scissors

You definitely won’t get far in terms of junk journal supplies unless you have some scissors. Any pair of basic cutting implements will do, and if you want to splurge you can get some nice craft scissors for under a tenner. Don’t mix your paper and fabric cutting on the same pair of scissors though as you’ll dull the blades quickly; proper fabric shears exist for a reason, folks. Of course if you’re like me you might want to get some properly aesthetic and/or pretty snippers like the Youtubers use so you can admire your handles while you cut. If that’s the case you want embroidery scissors, those tend to be the ones that come with the ornate and attractive handles rather than the usual functional sorts.

Just be aware that the blades on these tend to be on the small side, so if you’re chopping up bigger junk pieces for your journal you might want to have something chunkier on hand too. On the other hand, embroidery scissors – sometimes also called precise or detail scissors – are great for cutting out fussy little detail bits for your journal.

Junk! (And other stuff to stick)

This is the fun bit! I started off literally with cuttings from magazines, newspapers, old brochures and pretty much anything else I could find lying around (my husband decided to throw out his historic collection of White Dwarf magazines which I thoroughly plundered before they went to recycling, got me some amazing fantasy and sci-fi/horror bits to use). That’s undeniably the cheapest way to do it. I even found a bunch of old photography magazines going cheap over on eBay – some back issues of things like Practical Photography can go for as little as 99p and give many hours of happy cutting and sticking as scavenged junk journal supplies. I particularly recommend photography magazines like this as you tend to get a good variety of image subjects and styles, but of course if you have a specific aesthetic in mind for your journal you might want to try something else.

Alternatively, if you want to go for the more quintessential “vintage” junk journal supplies that are popular with a lot of Youtubers, you might want to look for packs of stickers and paper to form the basis of your “junk” inventory. This type of ephemera, as the “stickable bits” are sometimes called, is more expensive than some cheap (or free) old magazines of course, but it does let you better govern the overall theme and look of your journal so might be preferable for some.

Otherwise, ephemera “stickables” can be pretty much anything you like! Odds and ends of paper, stickers, photographs, postcards, feathers, glitter, beads, buttons, fabric scraps.. it’s endless, really, depending on how you want your journal to come out. Mix and match different textures, get a nice ink pen or something if you want to write in there too (and if that old biro you found in the couch cushion just doesn’t cut it any more), and you’re off.

(At least for the basics)!

The post Junk Journal Supplies for Beginners appeared first on Junk Journal Stuff.

Junk journals and scrapbooks are technically different, but the differences can be pretty subtle if you aren’t entirely sure. Both offer creative ways to document everyday events, thoughts, creations and general life goings-on, but the output style of them varies. When it comes to choosing between junk journals vs scrapbooks, you should really consider the kind of final result that you want from the finished item. If, y’know, you’re bothered about how you label it. To be fair, “book with paper and things made pretty” is a perfectly legitimate identifier! Officially, though…

Scrapbooking is pretty timeless and tends to use specially-prepared items such as pictures or photographs, stickers, decorative paper and other embellishments (from buttons and ribbons to special photo mounts and toppers) in order to create something visual that is more structured. It often gives a more “photo album” style of output that is organised, categorised and generally far preferable for anyone who has any neat freak tendencies! Scrapbooks are fantastic for organising memories and making giftable keepsakes, which is why they’re often so popular for fairly “distinct” life event themes such as weddings, holidays/vacations, new babies, house moving, birthdays or other occasions that warrant any sort of commemorative approach beyond just stashing a bunch of photos somewhere.

Junk journaling, on the other hand, is a far looser and still-evolving trend that allows a lot more room to go off-the-wall creative with layouts. It tends to mostly (if not entirely) unstructured, combines all kinds of creative media from stories and notes to poems, photos, trinkets, sketches, and pretty much anything else you can think of and glue, fasten or otherwise cram into something vaguely notebook-shaped. It acts as more like a “spill your thoughts” notebook than the more orderly layout typical to most scrapbooks, and can be anything from a place to store your scribbles, art, poems or dream diary to just a sort of random collage of bits and pieces that you find fit together in an aesthetic you enjoy.

Both junk journals and scrapbooks are a way of creatively preserving thoughts and memories in a way that inspires creativity and a more emotional connection than just formal diarising or photo albums. Scrapbooks are often more memorabilia-focused, using photographs and relevant memorabilia like programs, ticket stubs or themed items like stickers, whereas junk journals tend to be more free-form and can include all these things along with more “scrappy” bits like news or magazine clippings, random glue-able odds and ends, word prompts, doodles, sketches, random words or mini diary entries, and pretty much anything else you can think of.

Choosing Between Junk Journals vs Scrapbooks

There are plenty of options out there when it comes to keeping memories as keepsakes, but if you’ve come across both you might wonder what will work better for you – a junk journal, or a scrapbook.

Junk journals are great if you want to really go bananas on the creativity side because you can make them however you like (even just fasten a bunch of random paper together if you don’t want to use an actual notebook as a starting point!), so they tend to be lightweight and fairly inexpensive because of how flexible they are with materials. If you’re looking for something really expressive that allows loads of room for improvisation and is highly forgiving of less-than-perfect finishes (including being able to glue things in straight lines, an issue I have myself!), a junk journal is probably the right choice for you. Pages may not even start completely blank if you’re using scavenged materials, which gives you a creative starter-for-ten on every spread, and you can just go at things however you want without needing to worry about getting well-placed angles or precise cut-outs.

Scrapbooks, on the other hand, allow for a much more organised layout with pockets and envelopes for easier storing of non glue-friendly mementos, but may be a little pricier as you’ll probably want to buy a scrapbook album as a starting point, and most people prefer to have shop-bought embellishments like frames or stickers in their scrapbooks, as well as printed photographs, rather than just including odds and ends salvaged from wherever. They also often call for more exacting placements and layouts of nicely arranged photographs and notes rather than junk journaling’s sometimes haphazard approach, but the end results are generally much more shiny and pristine looking for sharing and showing off.

When choosing between the two, make sure you consider your budget (a basic scrapbook album might set you back anywhere from £4-10 depending on size and features, whereas a fancier one with edge protectors and a nicer cover could be £15 or more) as well as how much time and effort you want to put into your creation. Personal, meaningful, and polished = you’re probably a scrapbooker. Personal, meaningful, and all over the place = you might be more comfy with a junk journal.

Not, of course, that the official label matters all that much – mix and match styles and approaches however makes you happy. You could create a journal album, or a junkier-style scrapbook, or anything in between on any spectrum you like. As long as you have fun, express yourself, and create something that gives you joy, you’re doing it right!

The post Junk Journals vs Scrapbooks: What’s The Difference? appeared first on Junk Journal Stuff.