Want to Start a Junk Journal? Here's everything you need to know
In a world that’s becoming increasingly digital, it’s easy to feel disconnected from tangible, creative outlets. That’s where junk journalling comes in - a wonderfully hands-on, imaginative, and deeply personal hobby that’s taken the crafting world by storm.
A junk journal is more than just a collection of paper scraps and keepsakes; it’s a unique way to tell your story, explore your creativity, and repurpose materials that might otherwise go to waste. If you’ve ever wanted to dive into a craft that combines sustainability, mindfulness, and artistry, now is the perfect time to start your junk journalling journey. With more resources than ever before and a growing community of like-minded creators, you’ll find endless inspiration at your fingertips.
This blog post is here to guide you through the basics, share essential tips, and help you embrace the magic of turning “junk” into something truly beautiful. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, these insights will set you up for success as you create your first junk journal. Let’s get started!
What is a junk journal?
Junk journalling is a wonderfully personal & creative way to write down & collect your memories. As the name suggests 'junk journalling' involves collecting items in your daily life that would usually be thrown away and using them in your journal. Think cinema tickets, resturant bills, dried flowers, stickers, inspring images torn from a magazine - the list goes on. Modern junk journalling has moved away from purely using 'rubbish' and now also includes papers, washi tape, stickers & more, whatever fits your personal aesthetic.
Unlike traditional journalling, which often focuses on writing alone, junk journalling combines art, storytelling, and upcycling. Each page becomes a canvas for layering textures, colours, and memories, turning "junk" into something meaningful and beautiful. It’s a hobby that thrives on imperfection and encourages freedom of expression, making it accessible to all. Whether used as a scrapbook, an art journal, or a keepsake for treasured moments, a junk journal is as unique as the person creating it.
What are the benefits of junk journalling
Junk journalling offers a range of benefits that go beyond just creating something beautiful. At its core, it’s a deeply therapeutic activity that promotes mindfulness and relaxation, helping you disconnect from the stresses of daily life. Cutting, glueing and arranging materials can feel meditative, allowing you to focus on the present moment. It’s also a great way to repurpose materials that might otherwise be discarded, making it an eco-friendly hobby.
In 2024, junk journalling experienced a surge in popularity, driven by vibrant communities forming on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Influential journalling creators are not only sharing their creative processes but also building inclusive spaces for like-minded enthusiasts. These influencers are hosting online and offline journal clubs, adding a dynamic social element to the hobby. By fostering connections through shared creativity, junk journalling offers a refreshing antidote to the isolation often felt in the digital world. We love the video below of @bellaoggioni's journalling community!
What is the difference between a junk journal and a scrapbook?
Junk journalling originated by writing onto actual 'junk', using scraps of papers and then mending/adhering them together to make full sheets. Modern day junk journalling also uses made papers, pockets, ephemera etc but writing still forms a large part of the process. This style of journal is also referred to as a book journalling, creative jorunal or living journal.
Scrapbooking, on the other hand, started out as a way to present pictures, arranging them in an asesthetic or story-telling way. Scrapbooking typically doesn't involve as much writing - it has notes scattered throughout but doesn't involves writing down your thoughts and feelings in the same way.
That being said, these days everything is mixed together and theres no 'offical' definition of each activtity. And does the box your craft fits into really matter? We think the main thing is that people are enjoying expressing themselves however they see fit! It's all about having fun creating fun pages no matter what you call it.
What do you need to start a junk journal?
There are a few specific tools that every journalling girlie needs. Here's a good starting point...
- journal or notebook (ofc)
- glue
- washi tape
- tweezers
- scissors
- stickers
- scrap paper
- found / saved items from your daily life
- thoughts and feelings!
Things to include in a junk journal
Your journal is your creative space where you can include whatever brings you joy! It can be used to document your daily life or be themed around something more specific such as travel memories, personal growth or seasonal inspirations. Some people use their journals to document a particular life event such as the run-up to their wedding. Pinterest and TikTok are great places to look for inspiration.
Here are a few things to are fun to include in your journal:
- a photo of yourself
- letter to your future self
- goals & aspirations
- things that inspire you
- momentos from special trips
- skethes, paitings & doodles
Just imagine your future self looking back at these journals in years to come and remembering all the things you were truly passionate about in 2025.
Tips for committing to your journal
Have you ever started a journal or diary before but given up at some point along the way? We asked journalling influencer Bella Oggioni for her top tips on staying inspired & committing to your journalling journey! This is what she said...
"Building a routine, joining groups, going to meet ups & following people who inpsire you on social media. Khe key to staying committed is making journaling feel like a joy rather than a task. Start small—maybe just a sentence a day or a short reflection on something that stood out. Give yourself permission to let it evolve, and don’t stress about perfection. Having a cozy setup helps too—your favorite pen, a journal you love (I’m a big fan of Leuchtturm1917!), and maybe a cup of tea. And if you miss a few days? No pressure! Journaling is there for you whenever you need it"
Junk journalling is more than just a hobby, it’s a creative journey that blends creativity, self-expression and upcycling. Whether you’re repurposing scraps, preserving memories, or simply enjoying the freedom to create without boundaries, this craft offers something truly special for everyone. Starting a junk journal in 2025 is the perfect way to embrace a screen-free activity and the joy of making something meaningful with your own hands.
As you embark on this journey, remember that there’s no right or wrong way to create a junk journal - it’s all about what feels authentic to you. So gather your materials, let your imagination take the lead, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The process is as rewarding as the final product.
We hope this guide has inspired you to dive into junk journalling and explore its endless possibilities. If you’ve enjoyed this post, feel free to share your creations or connect with the ever-growing community of journalling enthusiasts. Happy crafting!
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