Top Low-Cost Stores to Find Junk Journal Supplies
If you’re a junk journal enthusiast, you know the joy of finding unique, affordable supplies to create beautiful and personalized pages. From eclectic paper pieces to vintage ephemera, sourcing materials doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s a list of low-cost stores and tips on what to look for in each one, so you can fuel your creative journey without spending a fortune.
1. Dollar Tree
Dollar Tree is a favorite for junk journalers on a budget. This store offers a range of supplies, and with everything priced at $1.25, it’s easy to experiment without overspending.
What to Look For:
• Crafting Paper: Find patterned paper, colored cardstock, and textured sheets.
• Stickers and Labels: Look for vintage-inspired stickers, floral designs, and labels for quick embellishments.
• Envelopes and Notecards: These can be easily transformed into journal pockets, tags, or interactive pages.
• Washi Tape: Dollar Tree sometimes stocks washi tape in various colors and patterns.
2. Goodwill and Thrift Stores
Thrift stores like Goodwill are treasure troves for vintage and unique finds that add character to junk journals. The prices vary but are typically budget-friendly.
What to Look For:
• Old Books and Magazines: Find images, illustrations, and pages to use as background.
• Vintage Postcards and Letters: Look for postcards with vintage stamps or unique handwriting.
• Maps and Sheet Music: Perfect for creating a rustic or travel-themed aesthetic.
• Fabric Scraps and Lace: Use these to add texture and a touch of elegance to your pages.
3. Walmart
While Walmart is a general retailer, it has a wide variety of affordable stationery and crafting supplies that can easily double as junk journal materials.
What to Look For:
• Clearance Stationery: Check out the clearance section for unique paper items, notepads, and notebooks.
• Craft Paints and Brushes: Affordable acrylic paints and brushes can help you create custom backgrounds.
• Glue and Adhesives: Walmart often has multi-pack deals on glue sticks and double-sided tape.
• Small Storage Bins: Keep your junk journal supplies organized with budget-friendly bins and boxes.
4. Michaels Dollar Bins
Michaels offers a dollar bin section where you can find many interesting items at a fraction of the regular price.
What to Look For:
• Patterned Paper and Scrapbooking Kits: These mini kits are often discounted and provide multiple elements to work with.
• Rubber Stamps and Ink Pads: Add unique stamps and ink to your journal pages for a vintage look.
• Die-Cut Shapes and Ephemera: From flowers to geometric shapes, die-cuts make great additions to any page.
• Mini Journals and Notebooks: Repurpose these as pocket inserts or smaller, themed journals.
5. Local Library Book Sales
Libraries often hold sales to get rid of old books and magazines, making it an ideal (and sometimes free) source for materials.
What to Look For:
• Old Encyclopedias and Dictionaries: Use the pages for a unique, vintage aesthetic.
• Children’s Books: Illustrations from these can add color and whimsy to your pages.
• Magazines and Brochures: Cut out images, patterns, and typography for collages and layouts.
6. Target Dollar Spot
Target’s Dollar Spot is a rotating section at the front of the store, often filled with seasonal or themed items.
What to Look For:
• Stationery Packs: Look for small packs of paper, notecards, and sticky notes.
• Decorative Clips and Pins: These can be used as page markers or embellishments.
• Seasonal Items: For themed journals, grab holiday or seasonal items at a fraction of the price.
• Mini Notebooks: Repurpose these as themed inserts or interactive pages in your main journal.
7. Estate Sales and Flea Markets
These places are ideal for vintage items that add authenticity and charm to junk journals. Plus, you can often negotiate for better prices.
What to Look For:
• Vintage Photos and Postcards: These can add an old-world feel to your pages.
• Unused Stationery Sets: Look for letter-writing sets, which often have matching envelopes and cards.
• Old Letters and Documents: Perfect for anyone who loves a true vintage touch in their journal.
• Vintage Books and Magazines: Flip through for interesting clippings or entire pages to use as backdrops.
Final Tips for Junk Journaling on a Budget
1. DIY Your Supplies: Reuse packaging materials, old wrapping paper, and fabric scraps.
2. Join Online Crafting Groups: Many junk journal enthusiasts love to swap supplies, which can be a great way to get new materials for free.
3. Use Printable Kits: Sites like Etsy offer downloadable junk journal kits, allowing you to print exactly what you need at home.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your supply stash, these stores provide affordable ways to fuel your junk journaling passion. Happy crafting!
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