Try Junk Journaling at the Beaches Library

Once upon a time, we called it scrapbooking. Then, bullet journaling had its minimalist moment. Now? The creative world is embracing something beautifully chaotic: junk journaling. It’s part memory-keeping, part art therapy, part rebellion against perfection—and the results are as inspiring as they are delightfully messy.

Each month, there is a junk journaling meet-up at our Beaches Branch Library. You can find the fliers at the front door with the dates each month.

What Exactly Is Junk Journaling?

A junk journal is a handmade book filled with an eclectic mix of papers, materials, and keepsakes—anything from vintage postcards and old book pages to ticket stubs, envelopes, lace, fabric scraps, and handwritten notes. The word “junk” doesn’t mean it’s trash; it’s about transforming everyday ephemera into art.

Think of it as the creative cousin of a diary and a scrapbook—less structure, more freedom. You can use it to record memories, experiment with collage art, write poetry, plan projects, or simply let your imagination spill across the page.

The Joy of Imperfection

The charm of junk journaling lies in its imperfections. There are no rules, no pressure for neat handwriting or coordinated color palettes. In fact, the more torn edges, uneven stitches, and mismatched textures, the better. It’s an antidote to digital overload—an invitation to slow down, make something with your hands, and embrace imperfection as part of the art.

How to Start Junk Journaling

You don’t need fancy supplies to get started. If you attend the library meet-up, they do suggest bringing scissors and glue.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Gather your “junk.”
Collect anything you love: old magazines, wrapping paper, greeting cards, photos, maps, fabric scraps, vintage ephemera, even receipts from memorable days.

2. Choose a base.
You can make your own journal using cardstock and a hole punch, repurpose an old book, or buy a blank notebook. Many junk journalers love creating signatures—groups of pages folded and sewn together.

3. Start layering.
Glue, staple, sew, or tape your materials in any way that feels right. Layer papers, add stickers or stamps, tuck in envelopes, and create secret pockets for tiny treasures.

4. Add words or art.
Write, doodle, or paint. Use watercolor washes, rubber stamps, or pressed flowers. Some people write daily reflections; others use their journals as creative experiments.

5. Make it personal.
The best junk journals feel like time capsules—filled with snippets of who you were in a moment. Include your handwriting, sketches, favorite quotes, or notes from loved ones.

Where to Find the Junk Journal Meet-up

The upcoming meet-up is October 11th, 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM at the Beaches Branch Library, 600 3rd St., Neptune Beach, FL.

Meetings are once a month, so look for the flier at the front of the library to get dates for the next one!