How to Start a Junk Journal: A Step-by-Step Guide + 15 Inspiring Page Ideas

There’s something so beautifully nostalgic about putting pen to paper.

As a mom, I find that documenting my life — the little moments, the seasons, the random notes and photos that don’t make it into an album — feels grounding and almost sacred.

Over the years, I’ve realized that junk journaling isn’t just a creative hobby. It’s a mindfulness practice. It’s a way to slow down and actually see your life as it’s unfolding, similar to bullet journaling.

In a world that constantly asks us to go faster, do more, and scroll endlessly, junk journaling has become one of my favorite ways to unplug and return to myself. When I sit down with a cup of tea, surrounded by paper scraps, ribbons, and dried flowers, I instantly drop into the present moment. I’m not worrying about my to-do list or what’s next — I’m simply playing, creating, and reconnecting with my feminine, intuitive energy.

This little ritual has taught me so much about slow living — that beauty really does live in the small details, that imperfection is part of the charm, and that making something with your hands can be deeply healing.

Whether I’m gluing down an old coffee sleeve from a special morning, a love note from my son, or a page torn from a favorite book, junk journaling reminds me to honor the simple, ordinary magic of daily life.

That’s how I fell in love with this craft — and why I think every woman should have a journal that’s perfectly imperfect and completely her own.

🌸 What Is a Junk Journal?

A junk journal is a handmade book created from a mix of new and recycled materials — think old book pages, envelopes, lace scraps, packaging, tickets, paper bags, and anything else that inspires you.

Unlike a traditional scrapbook (which is often neat, themed, and photo-driven), a junk journal is intuitively creative. It’s messy in the best way possible — filled with textures, layers, doodles, and found treasures.

Your junk journal can be whatever you want it to be:

• A gratitude or manifestation journal

• A memory keeper for your kids

• A seasonal inspiration book

• A creative outlet for when you need a little me-time

✂️ Junk Journal Supplies You’ll Need

The beauty of junk journaling is that there are no rules — you can literally use anything you already have at home. But here are a few essentials that will make the process extra fun:

Basic Supplies:

• An unlined notebook, old book, or spiral art book

• Scissors (or decorative craft scissors)

• Glue stick or double-sided tape

• Pens, markers, and stamps

• Washi tape (always!)

• Stickers and labels

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Optional but dreamy:

• Vintage paper scraps, postcards, or maps

• Old photos, cards, or love notes

• Fabric pieces, lace, or ribbon

• Dried flowers or leaves

• Ephemera (tags, tickets, receipts, menus, wrappers)

• Wax seals, paper clips, buttons, or charms

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Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Pro tip: I keep a pretty basket on my desk just for “junk” that might find its way into a journal — bits of ribbon, packaging from a candle, little notes from my son. It’s such a sweet ritual to pull from it when I’m journaling.

🪶 How to Make a Junk Journal: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Choose Your Base

You can start with a blank notebook, an old book you no longer read, or even bind your own pages using rings or ribbon. There’s no wrong way — choose what feels fun and easy to work with.

Step 2: Gather Your Materials

Go on a little scavenger hunt around your house — grab old mail, magazines, wrapping paper, or even product tags. Look for textures, colors, and words that speak to you.

Step 3: Create Your First Page

Start simple. Add a background layer using scrapbook paper, an old map, or a brown paper bag. Then glue or tape a few pieces on top — maybe a receipt from a special day, a Polaroid, or a pressed flower.

Step 4: Add Journaling + Texture

Write a note, a quote, or your thoughts of the day. Add layers with lace, washi tape, stickers, or stamps. Let it be imperfect — that’s what makes it soulful.

Step 5: Keep Building

Over time, your journal becomes this beautiful, thick, tactile time capsule — filled with your creativity and heart. You’ll find yourself flipping through it months later, smiling at how much life you’ve lived.

💡 15+ Junk Journal Page Ideas & Inspiration

01 | Favorite things page

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Make a favorite things page ☕💖
Collect little treasures from your daily life — a napkin from your favorite coffee shop, the tag from a new shirt, a receipt from a fun day out. Layer them together with notes about why you love each one. It’s such a simple, beautiful way to capture everyday moments that make you happy. 🌷

02 | a fashion inspiration spread 👗✨

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Design a fashion inspiration spread 👗✨
Cut out your favorite looks from magazines or print screenshots from Pinterest and style them together like your own personal mood board. Add fabric swatches, tags, or notes about pieces you’re loving right now. It’s such a fun way to express your evolving style and capture your current aesthetic. 💕

03 | Lyrics I love

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Create a lyrics you love spread 🎶
Take screenshots of your favorite songs’ lyrics on Spotify and print them out to add into your junk journal. Layer them with torn book pages, washi tape, and pressed flowers for a page that captures the soundtrack of your life right now. 💌

04 | Stickers I adore 🍒

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Create a stickers you adore page 🍒🌸
Fill a spread with all the cute stickers that make you smile — cherries, flowers, hearts, bows, stars. Mix and layer them over pastel paper or doodle little borders around them. It’s such a playful reminder that your journal doesn’t have to be serious — it can just be pure, creative joy. ✨

05 | Romanticize your coffee moments ☕💌

Take the little things from your favorite café visit — the coffee sleeve, sugar packet, receipt, or even the wrapper from your pastry — and turn them into a cozy collage. Add a photo, a pressed flower, or a note about what you were thinking that day. It’s the perfect reminder to savor the simple rituals that make life sweet. 🌷

06 | Make bucket list pages 🗺️🍂

@journalwithmies

Create themed bucket lists in your junk journal — like “Fall Adventures,” “Places to Visit,” or “Self-Care Goals.” Write them on pretty paper, add doodles or washi tape borders, and check things off as you go. It’s such a fun way to dream big while keeping your intentions beautifully visual. ✨

07 | Create a self-care moments page 🕯️🌸

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Fill a spread with little images, stickers, or drawings of the things that make you feel cared for — a hot bath, journaling, flowers, your favorite tea, or time alone. Add tiny captions or notes about how each one helps you recharge. It’s a beautiful way to remind yourself what self-care really looks and feels like for you. 💖

08 | Make a monthly memories spread 📆💫

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Print out a few favorite photos or screenshots from the month — little moments, not just the big ones — and collage them together with notes or doodles about what made this month special. Add receipts, dried flowers, or snippets from your planner to capture the energy of this season of your life. 🌷

09 | Make a pet love spread 🐾💖

Dedicate a page to your furry best friend — add photos of your pet, little paw-print stickers, and even a tag with their name. Write down funny memories, favorite cuddles, or the ways they’ve brought joy into your life. It’s such a heartwarming keepsake that will make you smile every time you flip through your journal. 🐶🐱✨

10 | Create a My Dream Space spread 🏡✨

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Cut out photos of furniture, lighting, and accessories that capture your vision for your dream home. Mix in fabric swatches, paint samples, or textures you love. Let it feel like a mini interior design mood board — a place where you can manifest your next home or simply romanticize the one you’re in. 🌸

11 | Design an About Me page 🌷💌

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Create a spread that celebrates you. Add a photo, your name in pretty lettering, and a few fun facts or things you’re loving right now. This page can evolve as you do — a snapshot of who you are in this season of life.

Here are a few ideas to include:

• 🌸 Favorite quote or mantra

• ☕ Your current morning ritual

• 💖 Things that make you happiest

• 🎶 Favorite songs or artists

• ✈️ Dream travel destinations

• 🕯️ What self-care means to you

• 💋 A list of your favorite little luxuries

It’s such a special way to anchor your journal with your essence — your energy, your story, your sparkle. ✨

12 | Start a tea tag collection page 🍵🌸

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Save the tea tags from your favorite blends and glue them into your journal — write a little note beside each one about the moment you enjoyed it. Maybe it was a slow morning, a cozy afternoon, or a quiet night before bed. Add dried flowers, washi tape, or watercolor splashes to give it that calm, tea-stained charm. It’s such a soothing way to document your slow living rituals. ☕✨

13 | Create a travel memories spread ✈️🌍

@alexrchive

Gather little treasures from your trip — tickets, receipts, postcards, photos, and even the napkin from that café you loved. Layer them together with maps, stickers, and handwritten notes about your favorite moments. Add a few reflections about what the trip taught you or how it made you feel. It’s the perfect way to relive the magic of your travels every time you flip through your journal. 💕

14 | Make a vision board spread 💫🌸

@peonydesign.co

Print or cut out images that represent everything you want to manifest — the home, the career, the love, the lifestyle. Add words, affirmations, and colors that capture the feeling of your dream life. Let this page become a sacred visual reminder of what you’re calling in every time you open your journal. ✨

15 | Set monthly intentions 🌙🕯️

@studio_magari

Dedicate a page each month to your goals, affirmations, and the energy you want to embody. Write down what you’re calling in, how you want to feel, and small actions that align with your intentions. Add stickers, washi tape, or quotes that match your vibe for the month. It’s such a grounding ritual for mindful, intentional living. ✨

🌸 Tips for Beautiful Junk Journals

• Mix textures: Combine fabric, paper, and lace for a layered look.

• Use a color palette: Pick 3–4 tones per spread to keep it cohesive.

• Add hidden pockets: Slip in notes, quotes, or photos.

• Play with layers: Stack torn paper edges or overlapping frames.

• Embrace imperfection: The charm is in the messy details!

🌷 Junk Journaling vs. Scrapbooking: What’s the Difference?

While they overlap, junk journaling is more artistic and expressive, while scrapbooking is more organized and theme-based.

• Scrapbooking: Focuses on neat layouts, photo albums, and cohesive designs.

• Junk journaling: Embraces imperfection, layering, and randomness.

Think of junk journaling as scrapbooking’s free-spirited sister — she doesn’t follow the rules, but she always looks effortlessly creative.

💬 Junk Journaling FAQs

1. What is the main purpose of a junk journal?
A junk journal is a creative space to document life, express emotions, and preserve memories — using both meaningful and random materials.

2. What do people put in junk journals?
Everything from receipts and photos to dried flowers and poetry. There are no limits — that’s the fun part!

3. Is junk journaling the same as scrapbooking?
No — junk journaling is more spontaneous and artistic, while scrapbooking is more organized and structured.

4. Can you use a regular notebook?
Absolutely! Any notebook, planner, or old book can become your junk journal.

5. What’s the best glue for junk journaling?
A simple glue stick or double-sided tape works great. For heavier pieces, use craft glue or Mod Podge.

6. How do you make a junk journal look cohesive?
Stick to a color palette or theme per page, and repeat certain textures or motifs (like lace or florals).

7. How often should I work on it?
As often as you want! Some people journal daily, while others add to it weekly as a creative ritual.

🕊️ The Art of Slow Memory-Keeping

In a world that moves so fast — junk journaling feels like a pause button.
It’s about savoring your life in real time, one beautiful, imperfect page at a time.

As a mom, I love that years from now, my son will be able to flip through my journals and see not just photos, but pieces of my heart — the pressed flower from our walk, the coffee sleeve from our morning date, the recipe we made together.

And that’s the magic of junk journaling.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about preserving your presence. 🌿

You may also like:

🌸 Girls Guide to morning pages

🌸 The self care journaling ritual

🌸 How to start a gratitude journal

🌸 Why you should start a bullet journal

Please feel free to email me at ashlina@thedecorista.com if you have any questions!  I’m always happy to help with decorating, life advice or even picking out a specific perfume!  Have an amazing day!!

Also, check out my Amazon shop HERE to shop all my favorite things, tips and tricks. You can also download the free LIKETOKNOW.IT app and follow me HERE.

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As always, thank you so much for stopping by today, I truly appreciate all of you! xo, Ashlina

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How to Start A Gratitude Journal to Unlock Your Manifestation Power

To answer the ever so popular question - how to start a gratitude journal, I’ll let you in on a little secret…starting it, will help you become an absolute manifestation queen.

If you’ve ever found yourself caught in the whirlwind of life—endless to-dos, moments of overwhelm, or just that nagging feeling of “Is this all there is?”—then this post is for you. I know that space well because I’ve been there too.

There was a time when my days blurred into a fog of stress and distraction, and gratitude felt like some lofty concept meant for other people, not me. But that changed when I started The Daily Bliss — my commitment to slowing down, noticing the beauty in the little things, and practicing gratitude daily.

That simple act of gratitude became the key to unlocking manifestation power I hadn’t dared to believe was possible. Gratitude shifted my energy, rewired my mindset, and helped me attract opportunities and joy in ways I never expected.

Today, I want to help you experience that same transformation by guiding you through how to start a gratitude journal—one that not only changes your perspective but also fuels your ability to manifest the life you truly want. This is your invitation to start your gratitude journey today and unlock the power that comes with it.

What is Gratitude?

At its core, gratitude is about recognizing and appreciating the good in your life. It’s the practice of tuning into what’s working, what feels right, and what you can feel thankful for—no matter how big or small.

But here’s a key truth: Gratitude isn’t about pretending everything is perfect. It’s not about ignoring hardships or challenges. It’s about choosing to acknowledge the light even when life feels heavy. It’s the act of seeing beauty and abundance amid the chaos. This is one of the core principles inside my manifestation academy.

Gratitude shifts your attention from lack to abundance, from “what’s wrong” to “what’s right.” It is the emotional and spiritual fuel that keeps your manifestation engine running.

Why is Gratitude So Important?

Gratitude is the foundation of a positive, abundant mindset—and mindset is everything when it comes to manifesting.

When you practice gratitude, you shift your brain’s focus. Instead of searching for what’s missing, you start recognizing all the blessings already present. This shift changes your energy and vibration—two crucial elements in manifestation.

Science backs this up: gratitude activates regions of the brain associated with dopamine and serotonin, the “feel-good” chemicals that lift mood and motivation. By regularly practicing gratitude, you build mental resilience, reduce stress, and create space for joy.

Manifestation isn’t just about wishing or hoping; it’s about aligning your thoughts, feelings, and energy with what you want. Gratitude is the key that opens the door to that alignment. It signals to the universe, “I am ready to receive.”

The Benefits of Gratitude

Why should you make gratitude a daily habit? Here are some of the incredible benefits:

• Improved Mental Health: Gratitude reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety by rewiring your brain toward positive thinking.

• Stronger Relationships: Expressing gratitude builds deeper bonds and fosters empathy and trust.

• Enhanced Resilience: Gratitude helps you bounce back faster from setbacks and challenges.

• Better Sleep: People who practice gratitude report improved sleep quality, thanks to decreased worry and rumination.

• Encourages Generosity & Compassion: When you recognize the good in your life, you’re more likely to pay it forward and act with kindness. Gratitude fosters a sense of abundance that makes you more open-hearted toward others.

• Improves Self Esteem: Gratitude shifts your focus from comparing yourself to others to appreciating your unique qualities and achievements. This builds confidence and a stronger sense of self-worth.

• Increased Manifestation Power: When you focus on abundance, you attract abundance—gratitude is the magnetic force behind manifestation.

How Gratitude Helps You Manifest

Manifestation is all about attracting what you desire by aligning your thoughts, feelings, and actions with your goals. But here’s the secret many people overlook: gratitude is the magnetic force that pulls your manifestations into reality.

When you practice gratitude, you’re not just acknowledging what you already have—you’re signaling to the universe that you are in a state of abundance. This vibration of abundance is key because the universe responds to the energy you emit. If you’re focused on what you lack, you attract more lack. But when you focus on what you do have and feel genuinely thankful, you create a powerful energy field of abundance.

Gratitude shifts your mindset from scarcity to plenty, from frustration to joy, and from doubt to trust. This shift helps you:

• Raise your vibration: The emotional state of gratitude is one of the highest vibrations you can feel, attracting positive experiences.

• Create clarity: Gratitude helps you see what’s working in your life, making it easier to identify what you want more of.

• Build faith: By recognizing and appreciating the good, you build trust that the universe will continue to support you.

• Activate inspired action: When you feel grateful and positive, you’re more motivated and confident to take steps toward your goals.

Think of gratitude as the soil where your manifestations grow. Without fertile ground, seeds won’t flourish. But with regular gratitude practice, you cultivate the perfect environment for your dreams to bloom.

How Do You Start Practicing Gratitude?

Starting a gratitude practice doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. The most important thing is to start small and be consistent with your journaling habit.

Here’s a simple way to begin:

1. Notice one thing each day: It could be your morning coffee, a smile from a stranger, or a moment of peace.

2. Say it out loud or write it down: Acknowledging gratitude amplifies its effect.

3. Feel it: Don’t rush through it—let the feeling of gratitude fill your heart.

You don’t need a perfect mindset or a perfect day to practice gratitude. It works especially when life feels hard because gratitude helps you find strength and perspective.

How to Start a Gratitude Journal?

Starting a gratitude journal is one of the most effective ways to make gratitude a daily habit and deepen your manifestation practice.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose Your Journal

Pick a notebook or digital app that feels inviting. It could be a beautiful bound journal, a simple notebook, or a notes app on your phone. The key is to choose something you enjoy using. Here are a few guided gratitude journals you may like:

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Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

2. Set a Routine

Decide on a time that works for you — morning, before bed, or both. Consistency builds momentum and makes gratitude an intentional practice.

3. Start Writing

Begin each entry with at least 3 things you’re grateful for. These can be simple or profound, big or small.

4. Be Specific and Personal

Instead of writing “I’m grateful for my family,” try “I’m grateful for my sister’s call today that made me laugh.” Specificity helps your mind focus and deepen the feeling.

5. Include Feelings and Reflections

Add a sentence or two about how these things make you feel or how they impact your day.

6. Experiment with Formats

Try lists, free writing, gratitude letters, or even doodles and drawings. Let your journal be a creative and freeing space.

Do Gratitude Journals Really Work?

The answer is a resounding yes!

Science shows gratitude journaling:

• Increases happiness and life satisfaction

• Decreases stress and negative emotions

• Improves physical health by boosting the immune system

• Strengthens emotional resilience

Countless people—including myself—have experienced how journaling gratitude rewires the brain to focus on abundance. It’s like training a muscle: the more you practice, the stronger your positive outlook becomes.

Journaling also serves as a physical reminder of your blessings. On tough days, flipping back through your entries can uplift and inspire you to keep going.

Gratitude Journal Tips You Need

To make your gratitude journal practice more impactful, keep these tips in mind:

• Be Honest: Write what feels true, not what you think you “should” feel grateful for.

• Mix it Up: Use lists, letters, poems, or doodles. Make it fun.

• Don’t Rush: Take your time to feel your gratitude, not just write words.

• Review Regularly: Reread past entries to remind yourself of your abundance.

• Pair It With Other Rituals: Try journaling alongside meditation or deep breathing.

• Be Patient: Gratitude is a muscle. The more you work it, the stronger it gets.

• Celebrate Progress: No matter how small, celebrate your commitment.

25 Gratitude Journal Prompts to Inspire Your Practice

Sometimes, knowing what to write is the biggest hurdle. Here are prompts to spark your creativity and deepen your gratitude practice:

Daily Prompts

• What is one thing that made you smile today?

• Name three small moments you enjoyed today.

• What’s something you’re looking forward to tomorrow?

• Who is one person you’re grateful for and why?

• What is something in nature you noticed today?

When You’re Feeling Stuck or Down

• What is one lesson you learned from a recent challenge?

• What is something simple you can be thankful for right now?

• Write about a time you overcame something difficult.

• What is a strength you have that you’re grateful for?

• Name one thing about your home or space that feels comforting.

For Self-Love and Growth

• What is one thing you love about yourself today?

• Write a thank-you note to your body.

• What is a talent or skill you have that you appreciate?

• How has your perspective changed in a way you’re proud of?

• What is a kind thing you did for yourself this week?

Manifestation & Intention Setting

• What abundance is already present in your life?

• What kind of energy do you want to invite in?

• What is one dream or goal you’re grateful to be working toward?

• Write about a past manifestation that came true.

• How can gratitude help you attract what you desire?

When Nothing Special Happens

• What everyday object are you grateful for and why?

• Describe a favorite smell, sound, or texture that brings comfort.

• What is a routine moment you often overlook but can appreciate today?

• Write about a food or drink you’re grateful to have.

• What is a peaceful moment you experienced recently?

Starting a gratitude journal isn’t just about listing what you’re thankful for—it’s a powerful, intentional practice that transforms your mindset, elevates your vibration, and opens the door to manifesting the life you truly desire. No matter where you are in your journey, gratitude has the power to shift your perspective, cultivate joy, and attract abundance in ways you never imagined. So, take that first step today.

Pick up your journal, write from your heart, and watch how the simple act of gratitude begins to reshape your world—one beautiful moment at a time. Your manifestation journey starts now.