How to Keep a Pretty Journal Without Drawing : Part 2

In this second part, we’ll explore different ways to enhance your journal using everyday paper scraps. You’ll discover plenty of tips and ideas that, I hope, will inspire you to create unique pages.

Between Journaling and Scrapbooking

What should you do with old scraps of paper? Don’t throw them away—at least, not all of them. In addition to preserving precious memories in your journal, you can give them a second life. Here are some ideas:

1 - Packaging

While grocery shopping, I sometimes come across products with charming illustrations, like these biscuits packaging and turn them into journal decorating material! You can visit small specialty grocery stores. Not only will you discover new places and products, but you’ll also have beautiful packaging to incorporate into your journal.

Sometimes when you buy from small brands, they may put extra care into their packaging and sometimes include little extras. (For example, we like to add a small tea bag.) You might find beautiful paper bags, stickers, business cards, and more. These decorative elements are perfect for creative journaling. On this page, I cut out the Louise Damas thank-you card to use as a header.

Sometimes, when you buy an item, it comes with a small cardboard tag. If it’s pretty, why not keep it and incorporate it into your page? A few years ago, we bought furniture from Zara Home—here’s how I used their tag.

2 - Tissue Paper and Gift Wrap

These papers are often overlooked, but they are perfect for journaling. For example, a piece of gift wrap from a present can help capture that memory in your journal.

Here, I used tissue paper to create a beautiful envelope.

3 - Memo Pads and Notepads

Memo pads can be more than just a tool for jotting down shopping lists and to-do lists.

Here, I used one as a base for my January 2024 cover page.

Or here, for a quote I love. If you’re wondering, I used a Uniball Signo pen to write in white.

It’s also great for capturing memories of special moments, like our Thanksgiving dinner.

And if you ever feel like archiving one of your shopping lists, why not?

Notepads can even be turned into mini envelopes (adorable, right?).

4 - Magazines and Catalogs

Magazines and catalogs can be a goldmine for decorations. You can cut out inspiring images or ads, like a perfume advertisement or fashion visuals. Here, I cut out a photo from a zine made by Sézane, a lovely women’s clothing brand.

5 - Receipts

Although not very aesthetic, receipts can become meaningful keepsakes of a special meal or outing. Slip them into small envelopes to keep them discreet. Some receipts are quite pretty, like this one from our apple-picking trip. Of course, you can do the same with an ordinary receipt.

6 - Tea Bags

For tea lovers, here’s a fun idea: keep the pretty tea bag wrappers and turn them into pockets. I recommend these brands with beautiful packaging: Clipper, Kusmi Tea, and Les 2 Marmottes.

7 - Kraft Paper

If you have kraft paper, it can be a great decorative element. Cut a small rectangle for a title.

Crumple the paper for interesting textures or tear the edges for a raw yet aesthetic look.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are so many ways to decorate your journal with everyday items. Whether it’s gift wrap, receipts, or memo pads, each piece tells a story and adds a personal touch to your pages. Journaling isn’t about perfection—it’s about memories and creativity. So go ahead, experiment, and let your imagination run free!