13 Genius Junk Mail Envelope Ideas for Your Junk Journal 🗑️📘

Ever feel guilty tossing out piles of junk mail? 🤔

Well, get ready to turn that guilt into creativity!

Today, we’re diving into Kelly from Root Pursuit‘s awesome video on transforming those pesky envelopes into junk journal gold.

Let’s get crafty and eco-friendly all at once! 🌿✂️

What Can You Actually Do with Junk Mail Envelopes?

Turns out, a whole lot more than you’d think!

Kelly’s got 13 clever ideas that’ll make you see junk mail in a whole new light.

From simple pockets to fancy shakers, there’s something for everyone, no matter your crafting skills.

Ready to dive in?

Let’s get started!

1. Basic Window Pocket

Kelly kicks things off with a classic:

• Grab a window envelope
• Cut off the end (your choice how much)
• Instant see-through pocket for your journal!

It’s super simple but so effective.

You can cut just short of the window or above it – dealer’s choice!

2. Mini Junk Journal Pockets

This one’s like getting two for the price of one:

• Take two envelopes
• Fold one the long way, one the short way
• Stagger them for double the pocket fun
• Bonus tip: Cut the sides for even more tucking space!

These mini pockets are perfect for stashing small mementos or notes.

3. Window Belly Band

Here’s a cool way to add a peek-a-boo element to your pages:

• Use just the front of an envelope with a window
• Cover it with pretty paper
• Stick it on your page for a see-through belly band

It’s great for holding loose items while still giving a glimpse of what’s inside!

4. Coin Envelope

Kelly’s got a neat trick for this one:

• Cut a slit in the envelope, but keep one end attached
• Cover with paper
• Adjust the height to your liking
• Perfect for holding small treasures!

This is ideal for coins, small tickets, or any little bits you want to keep safe.

5. Inside-Out Security Envelope

Who knew security envelopes were hiding secret patterns? 🕵️‍♀️

• Turn the envelope inside out
• Seal with washi tape for extra flair
• Instant patterned pocket!

It’s like discovering a hidden treasure in your junk mail!

6. Triangle Pocket

Time to get geometric:

• Cut an envelope at an angle
• Cover with paper
• Glue down one section for a unique tucking spot

You can play around with different angles to create various shapes and sizes.

7. Two-Envelope Folio

This one’s like envelope origami:

• Use two identical envelopes
• Glue the ends together
• Add pockets and inserts as you like
• Pro tip: Cut it down if it’s too tall!

It’s a great way to create a mini book within your journal.

8. Collage Envelope Pocket

Time to use up those scraps:

• Grab your paper bits and pieces
• Collage them onto an envelope
• Simple, creative, and waste-free!

It’s a fun way to use up scraps and create a totally unique pocket.

9. Multi-Pocket Wonder

This one’s a bit tricky, but so worth it:

• Use two envelopes of the same width
• Fold them around each other
• End up with 3-4 pockets in one!

Kelly promises a full tutorial on this one, so keep an eye out!

10. Specimen Card

For all you nature lovers out there:

• Use two window envelopes back-to-back
• Add pretty images or real pressed flowers
• Tip: Use double-sided tape to avoid wrinkles

It’s like creating your own little nature display right in your journal.

11. Folded Triangle Pocket

Geometry strikes again:

• Cut an envelope at an angle
• Fold to create two angled pockets
• Decorate as you please
• Use the cut-off piece for an extra triangle pocket!

This one’s great for adding visual interest to your journal pages.

12. Stamped Full Envelope

Sometimes, simple is best:

• Take a plain envelope
• Go to town with stamps and ink
• Paper clip it right into your journal
• Tip: Use a wet wipe with your ink pad for faster coverage

It’s a quick way to add a pop of color and pattern to your journal.

13. Shaker Pockets

Last but not least, the fun interactive option:

• Use window envelopes
• Add sequins or small ephemera
• Seal with double-sided tape or sewing
• Tip: Add a background image for extra dimension

These are so fun to play with and add a tactile element to your journal.

How Do These Ideas Make Your Junk Journal Better?

Kelly’s video is packed with inspiration that can really elevate your junk journaling game.

Here’s why these ideas are so awesome:

1. Eco-friendly: You’re repurposing what would otherwise be trash. Mother Earth approves! 🌎
2. Budget-friendly: No need to buy expensive supplies when you’ve got free material coming in the mail.
3. Variety: With 13 different ideas, you can mix and match to create endless combinations.
4. Customizable: Each technique can be adapted to fit your personal style and journal theme.
5. Interactive: Many of these ideas create pockets and tucks that make your journal more engaging and fun to use.
6. Skill-building: As you try out different techniques, you’ll improve your crafting skills.
7. Unique: No two junk mail envelopes are exactly alike, so each creation will be one-of-a-kind.

What If I’m New to Junk Journaling?

Don’t worry!

Kelly’s ideas range from super simple to more complex, so you can start with the easier ones and work your way up.

Here are some tips for beginners:

• Start with the basic window pocket (#1) or the collage envelope pocket (#8)
• Don’t worry about perfection – junk journals are meant to be a bit messy and eclectic
• Experiment with different papers and decorations to find your style
• Join online junk journaling communities for more inspiration and support

Ready to Start Your Junk Mail Makeover?

Phew!

That’s a lot of ideas, right? 🤯

Kelly’s video is a goldmine of inspiration for turning your junk mail into journal treasures.

From basic pockets to interactive elements, there’s no shortage of ways to spice up your junk journal.

Remember, it’s all about getting creative and having fun.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on these ideas.

Mix and match techniques, play with different papers and embellishments, and see what you can create!

And hey, next time you’re about to toss that junk mail in the recycling bin, think twice.

You might be throwing away your next journal masterpiece!

So grab those envelopes, dust off your crafting supplies, and let your imagination run wild.

Your junk journal is about to get a serious upgrade!

Happy crafting, and may your junk mail never look the same again! 🎨📬

What’s your favorite way to use junk mail in your journals?

Drop a comment below and let’s share ideas!

And don’t forget to subscribe for more junk journaling inspiration.

Until next time, happy creating!

Check out more junk journal ideas here: