How to Repurpose Everyday Items for Your Junk Journal
Have you ever looked at something you were about to toss and thought, “This could totally go in my junk journal!”?
Well, you’re not alone! Junk journaling is all about giving new life to old or everyday items. It’s fun, budget-friendly, and helps you see beauty in the little things.
Today, I’m going to show you how to repurpose everyday items for your junk journal. Let’s turn “trash” into treasures!
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1. Paper Goods: Save It All!
Think of all the paper we use daily. Instead of throwing it out, tuck it away for your journal.
Here are some ideas:
- Receipts: They make great layers or backgrounds.
- Junk Mail: Cut out interesting patterns or words.
- Gift Wrap Scraps: Perfect for colorful accents.
- Old Books or Magazines: Tear out pages with pretty pictures or fun fonts.
💡 Tip: A simple glue stick works wonders for sticking these down. (Check out this crafting glue set I swear by—it’s mess-free and dries fast!)
2. Packaging: Hidden Gems Everywhere
Before you recycle that cereal box, wait! Packaging can be your secret weapon.
- Cardboard: Cut it into sturdy tags or journal covers.
- Plastic Wrappers: Some are see-through and can be used as pockets or overlays.
- Clothing Tags: These are often so decorative, they’re practically made for junk journaling.
🌟 Must-Have: If you’re working with thicker materials, grab a craft hole puncher to make adding them to your journal super easy.
3. Nature’s Beauty
Next time you’re out for a walk, keep your eyes open! Nature is full of inspiration.
- Leaves: Press them between book pages to dry, then glue them in.
- Flowers: Create a soft, romantic touch.
- Feathers: A whimsical find for any page.
Note: Want to preserve these treasures longer? Use a laminating kit—it’s quick, and your pieces will last forever!
4. Fabrics and Textiles
Don’t throw out those old clothes or leftover ribbons. Instead, cut them up!
- Old T-Shirts: Use strips as page borders.
- Ribbons: Tie them around journal edges for charm.
- Lace or Scraps of Fabric: Adds texture and elegance.
🎀 Bonus: Try this fabric glue for fuss-free application.
5. Random Bits and Pieces
Here’s where your creativity can shine! Almost anything can find a home in your junk journal.
- Bottle Caps: Flatten them and make funky embellishments.
- Buttons: Sew or glue them in for a pop of fun.
- Broken Jewelry: Those beads or charms? Perfect for dangles or accents.
🛒 Shop Smart: For small tools to handle these tiny treasures, I recommend this mini toolkit—it’s a lifesaver!
6. Get Creative with Printables
When you’re short on “junk,” printables can save the day. You can find free designs online or splurge on gorgeous digital downloads.
✨ Shortcut: Check out my Etsy shop for junk journal printables — tons of variety to choose from and they’re stunning, plus ready to use!
Why Repurposing Feels So Good
Not only does this save money, but it also helps reduce waste. Plus, every item you add tells a story—your story. That’s what makes your junk journal so special.
So, grab that “trash,” and let’s turn it into art! 🌟
Happy journaling,
Jureen
See more Junk Journaling Resource Guide.
