My junk journal essentials 🌸

Hey fellow journalers! I know when you're diving into the wonderful world of junk journaling, one of the biggest questions is always: "What materials do I actually need?" It can feel overwhelming with all the beautiful supplies out there, but trust me, it doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. I'm excited to share my thoughts on some essential junk journaling materials, expanding on what makes them so great and how you can get creative with them. First up, let's talk about the journal itself. The core of it all! As I've learned, it absolutely doesn't have to be fancy. You can literally use any old journal laying around the house, an unused notebook, or even upcycle an old book. My personal tip? Look for one with decent paper quality if you plan on using wet mediums, but don't let that stop you. The beauty of junk journaling is that imperfections add character! If you're starting from scratch, a simple dotted or blank journal gives you the most freedom. Next, stickers and scrapbook paper are absolute game-changers. I can't stress enough: don't be afraid of stickers! They're fantastic for adding instant color, themes, and personality to your spreads. Think beyond just cute animals; explore vintage designs, floral motifs, or even functional stickers like labels and dates. Scrapbook paper, on the other hand, provides incredible backgrounds, textures, and patterns. I love cutting it into different shapes, tearing edges for a distressed look, or layering it to create depth. You can find amazing packs at craft stores, online, or even repurpose old calendars or magazines. And who can forget washi tape? Oh, the endless possibilities! It's not just for decorating bland spreads, though it excels at that. Washi tape is perfect for taping down pictures, securing little bits of ephemera, creating borders, or even just adding a pop of color. The variety of patterns, widths, and opacities means you can always find something to match your theme. It's also super easy to reposition without damaging your paper, which is a huge plus for me! When it comes to holding everything together, adhesives are key. A good glue stick is a must-have for paper-to-paper adhesion – look for acid-free ones if you want your creations to last. I also swear by a tape roller for quick, mess-free application, especially for photos or smaller elements. Sometimes I even use a stronger liquid glue for fabric scraps or heavier embellishments. Having a few different options means you're prepared for anything your creative flow throws at you. For details and personal touches, a pen and a label maker are surprisingly impactful. While any pen will do, I enjoy using fine-liners or gel pens for journaling and adding small notes. A label maker, like the one I use, adds a unique, tactile element to your pages. It’s perfect for titles, dates, or little quotes, giving your journal a distinct, organized-yet-playful feel. Beyond these, don't forget scissors for precise cutting, or even a craft knife if you want to get really intricate. And if you're like me and love incorporating photos or digital elements, a mini printer is a dream! It allows you to print tiny pictures on the go, making it super easy to personalize your journal with memories and inspiration. Ultimately, the best part about junk journaling materials is that there are no strict rules. Look for things around your house – old tickets, stamps, fabric scraps, dried flowers – anything that sparks joy and tells a story. Happy journaling, and remember to just have fun with it!