Who Knew Junk Journals Would Become a Collectable Item for Writers
What a writer can do with a junk journal

Five years ago I’d never heard of a Junk Journal, much less created one myself. But that is not the case today. I’ve got a shelf full of them and an idea for another one taking shape in my mind. So, what do I write in my junk journals?
It’s Confession Time.
I still do a lot of preliminary writing for my romantic fiction with pen and paper. I use my journals to make notes on plotting, character profiles, setting, and timelines.
I heard that gasp! I know. I know. Writing on the computer is more efficient. But my computer doesn’t have a romantic component in its little body. How can it be a source of inspiration for the happy-ever-after story I want to write?
So, I do a lot of brainstorming in beautiful, romantic, and cherished junk journals. I can buy one that fits the theme of the story idea, or, I can make one myself. The custom design keeps me focused and sets the mood.

And if all that isn’t reason enough, well, they’re fun to use and I LOVE them — enough said.

What Exactly Are Junk Journals And How Can They Be Used?
Junk journals vary, but most of them are a mix of vintage, used, recycled, and new materials. They are often embellished with ephemera, tags, pockets, and other handmade elements.
What To Write In A Junk Journal?
You’re only limited by your passion for a specific idea, memory, or event. Personalize them by what you write, draw, glue, and whatever else takes your fancy.
- Memory keeping is always appropriate
- Future goals, strategies, and progress
- Special planner
- Note-taking for conventions, meetings, seminars, classes, where you want to remember key points
- Scripture/Bible meditations
- Personal diary
- Guest/Friendship registry or sign/autograph book
- Brainstorming story elements. (My personal favorite)
- Yearbooks for high school and college
- Special Event Planner
- Dream journal
- Daily habits
- Tracker for TV, Movie, Music favorites
- Log book
- Financial log and receipt keeper
- Doodle art and glue book
- Wish lists
- Words of wisdom and encouraging quotes
- Celebrate small achievements and wins
- ‘Let it go’ lists
- ‘Want to do’ lists
- Log important questions you want to find the answers too.
- Record friendships and why they were successful, or not.
- Map occupational goals
- Poetry
- Therapy journal
- Wedding planner
- Fashion journal
- Dream Home journal
- Sticker/stamp collection
- Career Events
- Gratitude journal
- Brilliant Idea collections
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