Junk Journal for Beginners: How to Start Your First One
A junk journal is a handmade book filled with layered papers, ephemera, tape and memories. There are no rules, which is exactly why it's so relaxing. Here's how to get started.
What you'll need
- A mix of scrapbook paper: vintage, floral or themed pads work beautifully together
- Washi tape and stickers
- Ephemera: tickets, envelopes, tags, old book pages, photos
- Glue stick, scissors, a needle and strong thread (or a long-arm stapler)
- Card for the cover
1. Make the signatures
A "signature" is a bundle of folded pages. Take 5–6 sheets of mixed paper, fold them in half together, and nest them. Make three or four signatures for a first journal.
2. Make a cover
Fold a piece of card, decorated paper or even a cereal box covered in pretty paper around your signatures, leaving a little extra at the edges.
3. Bind it
The simplest binding is a pamphlet stitch: poke three holes along the fold of each signature and the spine of the cover, then sew through them with strong thread and tie on the inside. Repeat for each signature.
4. Fill the pages
This is the fun part. Layer papers of different sizes, add pockets made from envelopes, tuck in tags, and use washi tape to hold things down. Leave some space for writing or photos.
5. Add a closure
Tie a ribbon or lace around the journal, or add a button and elastic loop.
Tips
- Choose one paper collection as your base so everything coordinates.
- Tear edges instead of cutting for a softer, vintage feel.
- Don't worry about perfection. The charm is in the layers.
Browse hundreds of designs in our scrapbook paper, washi tape and stickers.
