Junk Journal Tutorial
Art with Me
A fun, beginner-friendly book binding tutorial.
Project Overview
Create a one-of-a-kind junk journal using an old book and everyday materials. This mixed-media project focuses on creative reuse, simple bookbinding techniques, and decorative layering. Each journal is unique and can continue to grow over time, making it both a creative keepsake and a functional art piece.
This project is designed for all skill levels and works well for at-home creating, libraries, classrooms, and community art programs.
Who It’s For
Beginners and casual creators
Teens and adults
Libraries, classrooms, and community groups
Anyone looking for a relaxing, open-ended creative project
Project Duration
Approx. 2 hours
Participants are encouraged to work at their own pace and pause the video as needed. Journals can be decorated further over time.
Supplies Needed
Required Supplies
Old book (hardcover works best)
Copy or printer paper
Cardstock or scrapbook paper
Scissors
Stapler and a piece of cardboard
Glue (paper glue or craft glue)
Optional / Decorative Supplies
Fabric
String or ribbon
Stickers, stamps, photos, paper scraps
Pens, pencils, or markers
Watch the Tutorial
Follow along with the full video lesson here:
Download the Step-by-Step Guide
Use this FREE printable guide for classrooms, libraries, or for use with the video.
Tips for Success
Go slow with glue. Using small amounts and pressing pages flat while drying will help prevent warping.
Test placement first. Arrange papers and embellishments on the page before gluing to find a layout you like.
Keep spines aligned. When binding chapters together, focus on lining up the spine edges—page edges can be trimmed later.
Use weight while drying. Old book pages or a small stack of books work well to keep pages flat.
Don’t overfill. Junk journals can expand quickly—leave space for future additions.
Pause and revisit. This project is meant to evolve. It’s okay to stop and add more later.
Creative Variations
Theme your journal. Try nature, travel, poetry, seasonal colors, or memory keeping.
Mix paper types. Combine copy paper, book pages, envelopes, and scrapbook paper for texture.
Add interactive elements. Include pockets, fold-outs, flip pages, or tuck-in notes.
Use drawing or writing. Add quotes, lists, sketches, or journal prompts to pages.
Incorporate fabric. Use scraps for binding, page accents, or ribbon bookmarks.
Stamp or stencil. Simple stamps or stencils can add repeated patterns and visual interest.
Create as you go. Decorate only a few pages now and return to fill the rest over time.
Share Your Artwork
I’d love to see what you create!
Share your journal on social media, show your piece at your local library or classroom, or send us a photo at sjmillerarts@gmail.com to see it featured on this page!
A big thank-you to the Plum Creek Library System for commissioning this tutorial and for supporting creative programming across our regional libraries.
For art instruction, workshops, or creative programming in your community, I’d love to work with you. Reach out to discuss project options and scheduling.
