If you’re ready to dive into the world of junk journaling, I’m sharing all the essential junk journal supplies you need to get started and unleash your creativity!
I’ve officially been influenced by the junk journaling girlies on TikTok, and I’ve decided to start my own junk journal. If you’re reading this, maybe you’ve been bitten by the junk journaling bug too! This creative hobby has been such a fun way to memorialize sentimental items, knickknacks, wine labels, and memories I’ve collected over the years. As a pretty sentimental person, this hobby feels like a natural extension of me.
For years, I’ve kept a corkboard at my desk filled with pictures, stickers, and mementos from different experiences in my life. Junk journaling has given me a way to bring new life to these pieces, turning them into a more permanent and meaningful keepsake. If you’re just starting out, like me, it can feel overwhelming to dive into all the possibilities. But don’t worry—junk journaling doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated! Below, I’ll share the essential junk journal supplies you’ll need to get started, plus some optional tools that I’ve found really helpful.
What Is Junk Journaling?
Despite the name, junk journaling doesn’t actually mean you’re using trash to fill your pages (though if you’ve got something cool from your recycling bin, go for it!). At its core, junk journaling is all about repurposing and preserving items that hold meaning or spark joy for you. Think ticket stubs from your favorite concert, postcards from a trip, or even pretty scraps of wrapping paper you couldn’t bring yourself to throw away. It’s about turning these bits and pieces into something beautiful and personal.
The word “junk” in the name really speaks to the freedom of the craft—there are no rules! You don’t need fancy materials or expensive supplies. Your journal can be as messy or as polished as you want it to be. It’s less about perfection and more about self-expression and storytelling.
For me, junk journaling is a way to take all those little sentimental items I’ve collected over the years and give them a home. Instead of stuffing them in a drawer or letting them pile up on my desk, I can use them to create something meaningful and fun to look back on. It’s like scrapbooking’s chill, artsy cousin—and I’m totally here for it!
Essential Junk Journal Supplies
- Notebook
The foundation of your junk journal is the notebook. Choose one with thick pages that can handle glue, stickers, and layered materials without tearing. A softcover notebook is ideal because your journal will get thicker as you add layers, and the softcover will allow for more flexibility. - Glue
To stick your treasures onto the pages, you’ll need glue. I’ve found that Elmer’s glue works well for most projects. If you want something with a little more versatility, try Tombow Multi-Liquid Glue—it has a precision tip and is great for intricate items. Rubber cement is another option, especially for items you might want to reposition. - Washi Tape
Washi tape is a must-have for adding decorative flair to your pages. It’s easy to reposition, comes in endless designs, and can help secure lightweight items like photos or tickets. I love this video on ways to use washi tape. - Something to Write/Draw With
Pens, pencils, markers, and highlighters are essential for adding captions, notes, or doodles to your spreads. Experiment with colors and styles to match your aesthetic. I love the Tombow Dual Brush Pen Art Markers. - Stickers
Stickers are one of the easiest ways to personalize your pages. You can find amazing stickers on Amazon, TikTok shops, or even local craft stores. They’re perfect for filling in blank spaces or creating a cohesive theme. - Photos
The one splurge I made was on the Canon Ivy 2 Mini Photo Printer. This printer connects directly to your phone, letting you print mini photos with a sticky backing. Just peel off the backing, and you’ve got instant photo stickers for your journal. It’s a great way to bring your memories to life.
Optional Supplies for Extra Creativity
- Scrap Paper or Ephemera: Repurpose old tickets, postcards, or patterned paper to add layers and texture.
- Rubber Stamps: Stamps are a fun way to add designs without freehand drawing. These letter stamps are fun with endless possibilities.
- Paper Clips or Decorative Fasteners: These are great for attaching items you might want to remove later.
- Stencils: Perfect for creating neat shapes or lettering.
Where to Buy Junk Journal Supplies
Since I’m new to junk journaling, I didn’t want to spend too much on supplies. Instead, I focused on using what I already had—old concert tickets, pressed flowers, and even receipts from memorable meals. Don’t feel like you have to buy everything at once. Start with the basics and build your collection over time.
I’ve curated a list of my favorite junk journal supplies here, including notebooks, washi tape, stickers, and the Canon Ivy 2 Mini Photo Printer. Many of these items are beginner-friendly and affordable, so you can start journaling without breaking the bank.
My Favorite Junk Journal Creators for Inspiration
If you’re just getting started or need some fresh ideas, there’s no better way to spark creativity than by checking out what others are doing. These talented junk journal creators inspire me with their unique styles, clever use of materials, and pure dedication to the craft. Here are a few of my favorites:
Junk Journal Tips for Beginners
If you’re curious about how I set up my first junk journal spread, I’ve shared a video here that walks you through the process. It’s been such a fun, rewarding way to get creative and preserve my memories.
Here are some extra tips to help you dive into junk journaling with confidence:
- Start with What You Have: Look around your house for materials like postcards, magazine cutouts, grocery bags, birthdays cards, packaging.
- Look for Inspiration: Follow junk journal creators or browse Pinterest and TikTok to spark ideas.
- Experiment Before Gluing: Rearrange items on the page to try out different layouts before committing.
- Don’t Compare to Others: Your journal is unique to you—focus on your own creative journey.
- Embrace Imperfection: Not every spread will be perfect, and that’s part of the charm.
- Have Fun: Relax and enjoy the process—it’s all about expressing yourself!
Time to Start Your Own Junk Journal
Starting a junk journal has been such a fulfilling experience. Whether you’re a sentimental soul or just looking for a creative outlet, this hobby is a perfect way to express yourself. With just a few essential supplies, you can create something truly personal and beautiful. Happy journaling!
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