The Art of Junk Journaling

If you create junk journals, digital kits, ephemera packs, scrapbook projects, pintables, or handmade journals for sale, understanding copyright is one of the most important things you can learn. Many creators assume that because something is old, vintage, or available online, it is automatically free to use. Unfortunately, that is not always true. Every day, junk journal makers ask questions such as: Can I use vintage photographs? Can I use old book pages? Can I use scrapbook paper? Can I scan a page and include it in a digital kit? How old does something have to be before copyright expires? Where can I find images that are safe to use? How do I know if something is copyrighted? The good news is that copyright doesn't have to be confusing. Once you understand a few basic principles, you can confidently create journals, digital kits, and ephemera while protecting your business and respecting the work of other creators. What Is Copyright? Copyright is a legal protection granted to c...

After gathering your basic junk journal supplies—paper, glue, scissors, stamps, and embellishments—it's time to discover what truly gives a junk journal its personality: ephemera . Many beginners hear the word ephemera and immediately think of old paper. While that's partly true, ephemera is so much more than that. It tells stories, preserves memories, adds texture, and transforms a simple journal into a one-of-a-kind treasure. Let's dive into the fascinating world of ephemera and discover why junk journal artists are always on the hunt for these paper gems. What Is Ephemera? Traditionally, ephemera refers to paper items that were created for temporary use and not intended to be saved. Examples include: Tickets Receipts Labels Postcards Letters Advertisements Packaging Maps Calendars Programs Business cards Over time, these everyday items became collectible because they provide a glimpse into history and daily life. Today, junk journal makers use ephemera to add beauty, int...

One of the biggest misconceptions about junk journaling is that you need expensive craft supplies to get started. The truth is that junk journaling began as a way to transform everyday materials into beautiful works of art. Many of the most interesting journals are created using items that would have otherwise been thrown away. Whether you're creating your first journal or building a large crafting stash, there are countless ways to gather supplies without spending a fortune. Before we begin, let's clear up a common point of confusion. Supplies vs. Ephemera: What's the Difference? If you're new to junk journaling, you'll often hear the terms supplies and ephemera . While they work together, they are not the same thing. Junk Journal Supplies Supplies are the tools and materials used to build and assemble your journal. Examples include: Paper Cardstock Fabric Lace Ribbon Thread Glue Scissors Washi tape Envelopes Packaging materials Hole punches Paper trimmers Book co...

​ Introduction One of the most common questions among junk journal makers is: “What glue should I use?” With so many adhesives available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. The truth is that no single glue works for every project. The best adhesive depends on the materials you’re working with and how durable you want your finished journal to be. Whether you’re attaching vintage book pages, printable ephemera, lace, fabric, pockets, or heavy embellishments, using the correct glue can make your junk journal stronger, cleaner, and longer lasting. This guide covers the most popular adhesives used by junk journal makers, what they’re best for, and which ones deserve a permanent spot in your craft room. Why Your Choice of Glue Matters Junk journals are unique because they combine many different materials: Paper Cardstock Fabric Lace Ribbon Metal charms Buttons Ephemera Vintage book pages Digital printables Each material requires a different type of adhesive to...