How to Turn a Book into a Junk Journal: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ever wondered how to transform an old book into a stunning junk journal?

You’re in the right place!

Today, I’m breaking down Amity Bloom Nazareth’s awesome tutorial on creating a beautiful French-inspired altered book journal.

Let’s dive in! 📚✨

What materials do I need to start? 🧰

Before we jump into the process, let’s gather our supplies:

• An old book (the more beat-up, the better!)
• Paint matching your desired cover color
• Fabric for the spine
• Digital kit or decorative papers
• Glue (both liquid and stick work great)
• Scissors
• Ephemera (optional, but so much fun!)
• Sewing machine (optional, for creating pockets)

How do I prepare the book cover? 🎨

First things first, we need to get that cover ready:

1. Choose a paint color that complements your chosen cover design
2. Paint the edges of your book, focusing on the corners
3. Don’t worry about the middle – we’ll cover that up later
4. Let it dry completely (patience is key here!)

Nazareth used a blue chalk paint that matched her French-inspired cover perfectly.

But feel free to get creative with your color choice!

What’s the deal with the spine? 🧵

Nazareth’s got a clever trick for the spine:

1. Cut a piece of fabric slightly larger than the spine
2. Apply glue to the spine area
3. Carefully wrap the fabric around, making sure it’s smooth
4. This adds a professional touch and helps your book open nicely

Pro tip: Choose a fabric that complements your cover design for a cohesive look.

How do I attach the new cover? 📘

Time to give your book a makeover:

1. Print out your chosen cover design
2. Carefully apply glue to the front of the book
3. Smooth the cover design onto the front, avoiding air bubbles
4. Repeat for the back cover
5. Trim any excess paper for a clean finish

Nazareth used a gorgeous French-inspired digital kit for her cover.

It transformed an old, falling-apart book into something straight out of a Parisian dream!

Should I remove pages from the book? 📄

Absolutely!

Nazareth suggests:

• Remove 5-10 pages for every 1 you keep
• This prevents your journal from getting too bulky
• It also gives you space to add your own papers and embellishments

Don’t be afraid to rip out those pages!

It’s all part of the creative process.

How do I decorate the inside pages? 🌸

Now comes the fun part:

1. Use pages from your digital kit to cover existing text
2. Cut pages in half for more variety
3. Mix and match different designs
4. Leave some original book pages for added charm

Nazareth used a combination of her digital kit pages and original book pages.

This creates a beautiful blend of old and new!

What about adding pockets and tuck spots? 💌

Pockets are super useful in junk journals:

1. Choose decorative paper or postcards
2. Stitch three sides to create a pocket (or use glue if you’re not into sewing)
3. Glue the pocket onto a page in your journal

Tuck spots are great for adding ephemera:

1. Glue down three sides of a piece of paper or card
2. Leave the top open for tucking in goodies

Can I use real vintage ephemera? 🕰️

Of course!

Nazareth loves using:

• Antique French documents
• Vintage postcards
• Old magazine pages
• Lace snippets
• Book pages from other antique books

Don’t be afraid to mix real vintage items with your printed elements.

It adds depth and authenticity to your journal.

How do I make it feel like a real book? 📖

Add these elements for an authentic touch:

• Create a title page (get creative with calligraphy or fancy fonts!)
• Add a “This book belongs to” label
• Include a table of contents (you can fill this in as you go)
• Number your pages for easy reference

Any tips for choosing a theme? 🎨

Nazareth went with a French theme, but you can choose anything:

• Pick a color scheme that matches your cover
• Use images that inspire you
• Include fabric and lace that fit your theme
• Consider themes like vintage, nature, travel, or your favorite book

Remember, your theme can be as broad or specific as you like!

How can I make my journal unique? 🌟

Get creative with these ideas:

• Add mini notebooks inside (great for specific topics or lists)
• Use magazine cutouts for unexpected pops of color
• Incorporate fabric and lace edges for texture
• Create tuck spots for special treasures
• Use washi tape for easy decorating
• Add tags and bookmarks for interactive elements

What if I’m not artistic? Can I still make a beautiful journal? 🎭

Absolutely!

Junk journaling is for everyone.

Here are some tips:

• Use pre-made digital kits (like Nazareth did)
• Practice layering papers and ephemera
• Start with a color scheme you love
• Remember, perfect isn’t the goal – charm is!

How do I use my altered book once it’s done? 📝

The possibilities are endless:

• Use it as a daily journal
• Create a travel scrapbook
• Make it a gratitude journal
• Use it for creative writing or poetry
• Turn it into a dream journal or vision board

Any final tips for beginners? 🌱

1. Don’t be afraid to experiment
2. Embrace imperfections – they add character!
3. Start with a theme you love
4. Collect ephemera and pretty papers as you go
5. Join online junk journal communities for inspiration

Wrapping it up 🎁

And there you have it, folks!

A step-by-step guide to creating your very own altered book junk journal.

Remember, the beauty of junk journaling is that there are no rules.

Make it yours, have fun, and let your creativity shine! ✨

Turning a book into a junk journal is like giving it a second life.

You’re not just creating a journal; you’re crafting a unique piece of art that reflects your personality and style.

Whether you’re into vintage vibes, colorful designs, or minimalist aesthetics, there’s a junk journal style for you.

Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect.

Like any craft, junk journaling takes practice.

But that’s part of the fun!

Each journal you create will be better than the last, and you’ll develop your own techniques and style along the way.

Remember, the joy is in the process as much as the finished product.

So put on some music, grab your supplies, and let’s get journaling! 🎵📘

Got any questions about turning books into junk journals?

Feeling inspired to start your own altered book project?

Drop your thoughts in the comments below.

I’d love to hear about your junk journaling adventures!

Happy journaling, everyone!

May your pages be filled with creativity and your journeys be memorable. 📚🖋️✨

Check out more junk journal tips and tutorials here: