What Is Junk Journaling?

Junk journaling is more than just a craft—it’s a deeply personal and creative way to capture memories, thoughts, and inspirations. At its heart, a junk journal is a handmade book filled with an eclectic mix of papers, ephemera, and embellishments. But what makes it truly special is how it transforms everyday “junk” into something beautiful and meaningful.

Traditionally, junk journals were made using scraps—old receipts, bus or train tickets, vintage postcards, handwritten letters, paper bags, book pages, or fabric swatches. Things that might otherwise be discarded found new life within the pages of a journal, creating a nostalgic and layered look. Today, while many still use authentic vintage ephemera, others incorporate printable designs, scrapbook papers, lace, buttons, and pressed flowers to enhance the aesthetic. Making collages, patching papers up, gluing and folding, and stitching up pockets brings not just a decorative touch to the journal but also is a great calming activity.

A junk journal is a space for self-expression. Some use it to jot down daily thoughts, poetry, or reflections. Others document special moments, using the pages as a visual diary filled with photos, clippings, and keepsakes. It can also be a place for doodling, watercolor painting, or even listing favorite quotes and inspirations. There are no rules—just the joy of creating.

What makes junk journaling so special is its ability to blend nostalgia with artistry. Each page tells a story, stitched together with remnants of the past and dreams for the future. Whether you’re preserving cherished memories or simply enjoying the process of crafting, junk journaling is a way to slow down, appreciate small details, and create something uniquely yours.

So, gather those old papers, ribbons, and keepsakes—your story is waiting to be told, one page at a time.