Story by Rhylea Thompson

When it comes to craft, Seasons resident Peggy Sowden is a rebel – with a creative cause.

The handmade enthusiast discovered the art of Junk Journalling more than a year ago, after she attended sessions offered through the Seasons Mango Hill Lifestyle Calendar.

MEMORY MAKER: Seasons resident Peggy reveals how she fell in love with the art of Junk Journalling. Photo: Maddison Bywater

While the roots of Junk Journalling go as far back as the 19th Century, the creative activity has had a resurgence after recently trending on Google and social media platforms.

Similar to scrapbooking but with a ‘twist’, Junk Journals encourage makers to repurpose items such as food packaging, envelopes, photographs, gift wrapping and other embellishments.

Serving as a freeform visual diary for individuals to unleash their creativity, document their thoughts or store their memories, Peggy said the possibilities of Junk Journals are endless.

VINTAGE VIBES: Peggy recommends using repurposed materials such as fabric, ribbon, old food packaging, paper and photographs. Photo: Maddison Bywater

“The beauty of Junk Journalling is there are no rules – you can do absolutely anything and everything,” she said.

“It’s fun, it’s all about recycling and it’s addictive… and when I say addictive, I mean it’s really addictive!

“What I love most about Junk Journalling is the feeling of achievement you get with the end result and showing it others.”

CRAFT THERAPY: After participating in a Junk Journalling session hosted by the Seasons Lifestyle Team, resident Peggy discovered a new-found passion. Photo: Maddison Bywater

Transforming an old cookie or cereal box into a stunning journal, Peggy then lines it with fabric and lace, and fills it with pages to decorate.

Since taking up the hobby, the Seasons resident has made an Alice in Wonderland, French and plant themed journal, and has already started brainstorming her next project.

Sourcing materials from op-shops and discount stores, Peggy also upcycles items from around her own home, which would otherwise be discarded, turning trash into meaningful treasure.

MINDFUL MAKING: Research shows craft activities including Junk Journalling can assist with managing stress and anxiety. Photo: Maddison Bywater

While some first-timers may find the task of piecing pages together overwhelming, Peggy recommends no planning as “it tends to just happen” and firmly believes there are no mistakes with Junk Journalling.

“If you decide you don’t like a page, just stick something else over the top of it, but you will soon find your groove and feel a little more confident,” she said.

“People have such incredible imaginations and it’s amazing to see what they create.”

CREATIVE FREEDOM: Seasons resident Peggy said when it comes to Junk Journalling, there are “no rules”. Photo: Maddison Bywater

While Peggy admits it depends on the individual’s level of enthusiasm and the thickness of the journal, it usually takes her a month or so to complete one.

In addition to the environmental benefits it offers, Junk Journalling is also an affordable hobby, reminder to appreciate the small things, mindfulness tool and great way to reduce stress and anxiety.

PEGGY’S TOP TIPS TO GETTING STARTED:

1. Grab some cardboard, coloured paper, glue, a ruler and a pair of scissors, as well as any unique embellishments you wish you add to your journal.

2. Decide on a theme or purpose of the journal when sourcing your items.

3. Play around with different textures, colours and layers. Remember there are no rules with Junk Journals!

4. Start journalling and have fun!