It’s been almost fifteen years that I vowed to have a nice area in my house to use for my creative pursuits. At that time, it was mainly for writing. Since discovering the joy of creating junk journals, the need for more space became pressing.
I write longhand and like to spread out my materials. When I make junk journals I like to have a variety of materials in front of me to use. I may think my writing and crafting plans through but much of it is done on the fly. The mere act of creation opens windows in our thinking and new ideas fly in.
Junk journals are an enigma in that there are no rules in the creation of them. There are many different styles that range from highly decorated to utilitarian. I enjoy blending and matching colors, providing some interactive and sensory components, repurposing materials, and leaving room for writing space. Writing is so good for us, even making lists or jotting down a favorite song lyric is cathartic.
But junk journals are so much more. For those who enjoy creating their own art: sketching, lettering, collaging, decoupaging, etc., a junk journal is a springboard to safekeeping your creations. They may remain private or you may share them as you wish.
I’m not an artist in the sense that I don’t paint or sketch. I am an artist who crafts with words. And so, the writing aspect of a journal appeals to me. Writing is good for the soul. This is supported by research. And there is no one around to tell you how to write in your junk journal. I’ve seen examples of writing that trails around a page, punctuated by drawings of flowers. It invites the reader to follow along.
Though I’m a traditional writer, meaning I prefer space and lines, there are plenty of opportunities to find that space in many journals. Those that I make are more geared to the writing aspect but there is no reason you can’t add other papers and writings to your journals.
It will take me some time to customize my new space. And then I can turn to all of the framed art I’ve been looking forward to putting on the walls. Images inspire me. I hope you’ll traipse along this path with me. At no time will I attempt to sell my journals. I will, however, endeavor to nudge you to try to make your own junk journal. If anyone told me several months ago that I would find joy in this activity, I would have laughed myself silly. But there we are. Stay tuned, if you wish. I’d love to have you tag along.
“In the journal, I am at ease.” Anais Nin
Stories Are For Eternity 