Hey guys! Ever thought about diving into the awesome world of junk journaling? It's like mixed media art, scrapbooking, and storytelling all rolled into one super cool hobby! And the best part? You can use all sorts of recycled and upcycled materials to make something totally unique and personal. Today, we're going to explore how you can use junk journaling techniques to create fantastic bookmarks and cards. Get ready to unleash your creativity!

What is Junk Journaling?

So, what exactly is junk journaling? At its heart, it's a way of creating a journal using found objects, scraps of paper, ephemera, and other bits and pieces that might otherwise be thrown away. Think old book pages, ticket stubs, fabric scraps, maps, and even packaging! The idea is to repurpose these items and combine them in a creative way to form a journal that tells a story or captures a theme. Junk journals are super personal and reflect the creator's individual style and interests. There are no rules – that's the beauty of it! You can make your journal as simple or as elaborate as you like. Some people create journals with a specific theme in mind, while others simply let the materials guide them. Some journals are neat and tidy, while others are overflowing with layers and textures. It's all about experimentation and having fun!

One of the things that makes junk journaling so appealing is its accessibility. You don't need to invest in expensive supplies to get started. In fact, the more resourceful you are, the better! Start by gathering materials from around your home. Old books, magazines, newspapers, junk mail, packaging, and fabric scraps are all great sources of materials. You can also look for ephemera at flea markets, antique stores, and online. Once you've gathered your supplies, start experimenting with different techniques. Try layering different papers and textures, adding embellishments, and creating collages. You can also use stamps, stencils, and inks to add interest to your pages. Don't be afraid to make mistakes – that's part of the process! The more you experiment, the more you'll discover your own unique style.

Another great thing about junk journaling is that it's a very mindful activity. It can be a great way to relax and de-stress. When you're focused on creating something beautiful, you're not thinking about your worries and anxieties. It's also a great way to express yourself creatively. Junk journaling can be a form of therapy, allowing you to explore your emotions and experiences in a safe and creative space. So, if you're looking for a new hobby that's both creative and therapeutic, junk journaling might be just what you need. It's a great way to unleash your creativity, relax and de-stress, and express yourself in a unique and meaningful way. And who knows, you might just discover a hidden talent!

Junk Journal Bookmarks: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bookmarks are an excellent starting point for junk journaling. They're small, manageable, and perfect for experimenting with different techniques. Plus, who doesn’t love a unique, handmade bookmark? Let's dive into how to make some awesome ones:

Gathering Your Supplies

First things first, gather your supplies. You'll need:

• Base: Sturdy cardstock, old book pages, or even cereal box cardboard.
• Papers: Scrapbook paper, vintage book pages, maps, music sheets.
• Embellishments: Ribbons, lace, buttons, beads, charms, stickers.
• Adhesives: Glue stick, double-sided tape, or liquid glue.
• Tools: Scissors, ruler, pencil, hole punch, and any decorative edge scissors you might have.

Creating the Base

1. Cut the Base: Cut your base material to the desired bookmark size. A good starting point is about 2 inches wide and 6 inches long, but feel free to adjust this to your liking.
2. Reinforce (Optional): If you're using a thinner material like a book page, consider layering it onto a piece of cardstock for added stability. This will help your bookmark last longer and withstand more wear and tear.
3. Shaping: Round the corners for a softer look. This also prevents the corners from bending or fraying over time.

Layering and Embellishing

1. Background Layer: Glue down your background paper onto the base. This could be a piece of scrapbook paper, a vintage book page, or even a collage of different papers. Experiment with different textures and patterns to create a unique look.
2. Adding Ephemera: Now, add layers of ephemera such as ticket stubs, postage stamps, or small photos. Arrange them in a way that is visually appealing and tells a story.
3. Embellishments: This is where you can really let your creativity shine. Add ribbons, lace, buttons, beads, charms, and stickers to your bookmark. Consider using different textures and materials to add depth and interest.
4. Finishing Touches: Once you're happy with the design, add any final touches such as stamping, stenciling, or ink splatters. These details can really elevate your bookmark and make it stand out.

Adding a Tassel

1. Punch a Hole: Use a hole punch to create a hole at the top of the bookmark.
2. Attach Tassel: Thread a ribbon, piece of yarn, or twine through the hole and tie it off to create a tassel. You can also add beads or charms to the tassel for extra flair. This is a great way to add a pop of color and texture to your bookmark.

Sealing (Optional)

• For added durability, consider sealing your bookmark with a thin layer of Mod Podge or another sealant. This will protect it from moisture and wear and tear.

Junk Journal Cardmaking: Spreading the Love

Creating cards using junk journal techniques is another fantastic way to use your stash of scraps and ephemera. These handmade cards are perfect for any occasion and make a thoughtful, personal gift. Let’s get started on making some one-of-a-kind cards!

Gathering Your Supplies

Much like bookmark making, you'll need:

• Card Base: Pre-made blank cards or sturdy cardstock to create your own.
• Papers: Scrapbook paper, old book pages, sheet music, maps, doilies.
• Embellishments: Buttons, lace, fabric scraps, stickers, stamps, brads.
• Adhesives: Glue stick, double-sided tape, foam squares for dimension.
• Tools: Scissors, ruler, paper trimmer (optional), stamps, ink pads.

Creating the Card Base

1. Choose Your Base: You can use pre-made blank cards or create your own by folding a piece of cardstock in half. If you're creating your own, use a paper trimmer to ensure clean, straight edges.
2. Size: A standard card size is 4.25 x 5.5 inches, but you can adjust this to your liking. Just make sure your card will fit in a standard envelope.

Designing the Card Front

1. Background Layer: Adhere a piece of decorative paper to the card front. This could be a piece of scrapbook paper, a vintage book page, or even a collage of different papers. Consider using different textures and patterns to add visual interest.
2. Focal Point: Choose a focal point for your card, such as a stamped image, a die-cut shape, or a vintage photograph. This will be the main element that draws the eye.
3. Layering: Add layers of ephemera and embellishments around the focal point. Experiment with different arrangements until you find a design that you like.
4. Dimension: Use foam squares to add dimension to certain elements of the card. This will make your card more visually interesting and tactile.

Adding Sentiments

1. Stamping: Use stamps to add a sentiment to your card. This could be a birthday greeting, a thank you message, or a simple