#junk journal techniques

[artisticdivasworld]

Junk Journaling: Finding ephemera to use

Since we just talked about how to make a junk journal last post, now let’s talk about what you will use to fill it up and make it pretty. Junk journaling is like going on a treasure hunt where every little piece you find can tell a story. You can use almost anything to create your journal. First off, you might want to start with the basics, like old book pages. These can be from old novels,…

[libraford]

Multi-paper junk mini journal tutorial (low spoons version)

Last night, I mentioned that I like my blank books to have a combination of different papers: colored paper for sketching, blank paper for writing, dotted paper for lists, graph paper for schematics and maps, but there arent many manufacturers that make this. So I just make them myself.

And yall wanna know how to do that.

GREAT!

Here's the easy version. This is for:

-I want this for me, NOW, and I don't care what it looks like because I'm gonna cover it in stickers, and it's only going to be a few pages long. If it lasts a week, I'm happy.

You will need:

- desired papers, 8.5x11 inch regular ass sizes

- a piece of card stock or a thicker paper.

- stapler

- washi tape (optional)

- probably scissors

STEP 1

Take a piece of paper. Fold it in half. Tear or cut the paper along the fold line so you have two half sheets of paper.

If you want a larger book, you can just fold it in half and the book will be 8.5×5 instead of 5x3.25.

STEP 2

Fold the half sheets in half and crease them. Repeat this for every sheet you intend on using for the inside of your journal.* Try not to do more than 8 papers because it'll put stress on the stapler. The papers should now fit inside of each other.

*you could, if pressed, fold them all together in one big group. This is faster, however- if you've ever had a handmade zine that doesn't close cleanly it's likely that they stapled it together without creasing. To each their own. I don't run your life.

If there is excess on the ends that makes the book uneven, feel free to chop it off at this point.

STEP 3

Repeat step 2, but with the thicker paper, which is now your book cover.

STEP 4

Find the centerfold- which is the middle piece of paper. Lay it flat and make sure all the papers and the cover line up.

TIME TO MAKE FRIENDS WITH STAPLER!

Ah, yes- the zine-stitch. Three staples to hold it all together, one in the center and 2 an inch from the top and bottom. If you are doing a larger size, you may need more staples.

You can staple from the inside or you can flip it over and staple it from the spine. Stapling from the spine will make it smoother on the outside so if you're carrying it in your pocket it won't catch threads.

But sometimes stapling from the inside is the only method that works. I've got a fix for you at the end.

Stapling is easy because it's a fast fix, but you may find yourself wasting staples because they don't go all the way through. This can be that the paper is too thick or that there's too many papers. I have a more complicated version of this that's suited to this situation, which I'll write later.

Other, more obvious solution: better staples, better stapler. But I don't have that.

You can call yourself done now, or...

OPTIONAL STEP 5

If you stapled from the centerfold or if you plain don't like the way your spine looks, we're gonna use some washi tape.**

Gently find an unstapled flap in the cover and separate it so you can get some washing tape to adhere to the inside.

Run it along the spine with the book flattened.

Adhere it to the inside of the cover at the bottom and then fold.

**an advanced technique for this when you don't have washi tape: cut a strip of contrasting paper at least 1 inch thick and 2 inches longer than the spine (so in this case it would be 1 inch by 7 inches.) Coat the back of this paper with glue and then use in the same way the washi is shown. This will require extra curing time and you will want to put something heavy on top as it dries. Washi is just easier.

Now slap a sticker on it.

Nice!

And now you've got a little journal. Does it look great? Who cares? You don't have to look all over for a piece of graph paper when you wanna draw a map of something while you're out doing stuff.

It took me longer to write the tutorial than it did to make the thing. The hardest part was getting the staples to behave.

I have a higher spoons version that I will write up later, but this is the punkass way of doing something for yourself.

UPDATE: The tutorial for the nicer version is available here!

[delicatelypearl]

Journaling 101:

A guide for all your journaling needs, whether you’re just starting out and don’t know where to start, or if you’re looking for a way to stay more organized, you’re in the right place!

(disclaimer that this does include a lot of my personal experiences, and different things may work better for different people!)

-gratitude journal: keeping a journal including things that you’re grateful for really adds a new, and positive aspect to your life. Start by writing down a list of 3-5 things that happened that day that you’re thankful for, happy about, accomplishments you’ve achieved, or maybe even a special event you’re looking forward to. Doing so really reminds you of all the good things that come to you in life.

-shadow work journal: Shadow work journals are very useful if you deal with trauma. They make you reflect on your past and help you to understand the root of your trauma, leading to helping you heal from it. Shadow work journals ask certain questions that really make you think, helping to uncover your trauma and heal from it. You can’t heal if you don’t fully understand what you’re healing from! They sell certain books that specially come with the questions already inside, or for a cheaper and more easily accessible option, you can look up some shadow work journal prompt ideas online.

-dream journal: A dream journal is a perfect journal idea if you’re someone (like me) who has the most vivid and interesting dreams. I usually just write down everything I remember from my dreams into my notes app, but that can get cluttered easily, so I recommend keeping a notebook next to your bedside for easy access first thing in the morning. After you write down everything you can remember, you can begin to dissect the dream, detail by detail. Dreams have meanings & every single detail is a sign from your subconscious. I have a book called 12,000 Dreams Interpreted by Gustavus Hindman Miller, and it’s very interesting to read about, but sometimes my dreams are super specific and weird that I have to resort to using google!

-scrapbook/junk journal: This is one of my favorite things I’ve started doing! There are so many different ways to do it, but for me personally, every week I collect items (receipts, post cards, wrappers, movie tickets, restaurant menus, business cards, photos, napkins, letters, clothing tags, etc.) from that week and I create a weekly recap spread! It helps me document what I did that week, so in the future, it helps to look back and remember the small details too. Even as I’m scrapbooking at the end of the week, it helps me to reflect and look back on just how progress I had made that week. It doesn’t even have to be big events, but maybe just receipts from a small trip to the grocery store. Think of anything. Get creative! I really do love that you can get really creative with this! I also decorate the pages with some washi tape, stickers, markers, pens, and paper. Another idea I like is to just make some themed collages using stickers, paper, and other supplies. I started by watching some scrapbooking ASMR videos on YouTube and I enjoyed it so much, I just knew I needed to do it myself.

-spirituality journal: I love keeping a spirituality journal!!! This journal is what I write in to manifest, where I take notes about different essential oils, chakras, crystals, meditation techniques, and other spiritual tips! This journal is also where I write down my daily tarot readings, and I do a lot of spiritual growth and daily talks of healing and reflecting here. It’s kind of like a stream of conscious type of thing! I write however I’m feeling or what I’m thinking, usually with no second thoughts, and it does wonders after I put my spiritual thoughts out there onto paper. It helps to solidify however I feel. This has been my most used journal lately, and it really helps!

-sketchbook: A sketchbook is super useful for those who have a more artistic side to them and always need to be using their hands and being creative. I keep a sketchbook myself, and although I haven’t used it in quite some time, I still find them to be very useful. Whether you’re sitting in class and doodling while you listen to the lecture, or you’re trying to capture the beautiful landscape around you in the park, sketching is a very relaxing activity and a great creative outlet. Even if you aren’t very artistic, sketches are supposed to be a rough drawing, so they definitely do not have to be perfect. Plus who knows? Maybe with sketching, you will discover some hidden artistic abilities! I personally feel that it’s best to try my hand at everything, so I never turned down sketching to help myself relax. Plus, it helps to draw out any emotions you’re feeling in that moment.

-daily diary: Of course I have to talk about the classics. A daily, basic, diary. Perfect to just jot all your thoughts down on. It’s perfect to write in first thing in the morning. You can write about your hopes for the day, your current thoughts, and then revisit at night and talk about what occurred that day. Another option is to carry it around with you, like in a purse, and document when needed. This also makes for a good time capsule, and in a few years it will be interesting to look back on how your day-to-day life was at the time. You can also include any personal secrets, drama, and emotional turmoil you feel at the moment as that will also be something to look back on in the future, so you can see how far you’ve come since then. Trust me! Everybody loves the classics.

-shared journal: SUCH a cute idea for you and a group of friends to do! One way I’ve seen this one before, is one friend keeps the journal for a few weeks at a time, and writes down anything they’re thinking, documents whatever they’re doing in life, and just anything they want in general! Then, they send it off to the next friend and it just keeps going around the friend group until the journal is filled 🤍 This idea is great for people who have friends that live far away from them and don’t get a chance to see them all the time, as it gives them a way to still keep in contact other than being over the phone. And I can imagine that it’s very fun to look at what all your friends are up to once it’s your turn with the journal! I’ve seen people who have filled up multiple journals with their friends! I will definitely be starting this with my friend group! It’s like a sisterhood of the traveling journal for sure🥰

-bullet journal: A bullet journal is basically just an everyday journal to keep your notes, to-do lists, and trackers in! You can track your mood, the weather, exercises, how many books you’ve read, and so much more! I’ve seen people take it month by month, and each month they create a beautiful cover page that coincides with that month! I’ve never done a bullet journal before, and I feel like my artistic side is not as well developed to achieve the same looks as some of these bullet journals I’ve seen online! You can start one easily with a dot grid notebook and some pens and highlighters! There are so many ideas for spreads on apps like Pinterest and TikTok if you have trouble getting started Using a dot grid notebook makes it much easier to split the pages into equal sections. This is perfect for those who love to use a calendar and want to have it be physical!

-poetry/fiction writing journal: Basically self explanatory but a journal to keep all your poetry and fiction writing! Poetry writing is a great way to get your feelings down on paper and is also great a form of art! I enjoy fiction writing a lot, and it helps me to stay creative!

♡I hope this helped some of you get a new start in journaling and find what works for you! Feel free to send me any asks if you have any questions!♡

[glowup-princess]

ʜᴏᴡ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛᴜᴅʏ ʟɪᴋᴇ ʙʟᴀɪʀ ᴡᴀʟᴅᴏʀꜰ

 1. Curate a Luxurious Study Environment

Choose a study space that feels sophisticated and clean. Think: a home library, a perfectly organized desk, or a favorite spot at a chic café. 

Add luxury touches like scented candles, fresh flowers, and soft, ambient lighting. Blair would never settle for clutter!

 2. Dress Like a Queen Bee

Elevate your look: Blair never slouches in sweats. Choose something stylish yet comfortable, like a cashmere sweater, tailored loungewear, or a polished blouse.

Accessorize with a headband, stud earrings, or a delicate necklace for an effortless, put-together vibe.

 3. Create a Glamorous Study Kit

Invest in elegant stationery: monogrammed notebooks, gold or pastel pens, and highlighters that match your aesthetic.

Use a structured planner or journal to organize your day (bonus points for color-coded to-do lists).

 4. Organize Tasks with Precision

Start by writing out a prioritized to-do list. Divide tasks into categories: "Must Do Today," "Can Wait," and "Bonus Goals."

Break larger projects into manageable sections with clear deadlines for each step.

 5. Schedule Study Blocks

Use a time management method like the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of focused work, 5-minute breaks).

During study blocks, turn off distractions (silence your phone, close unnecessary tabs) and commit to full focus.

 6. Use Blair-Worthy Study Techniques

Flashcards: Memorize concepts efficiently and quiz yourself.

Active Note-Taking: Rewrite your notes in a neat, organized manner, summarizing key points.

Study Groups: Engage in intellectual debates or discussions to solidify your understanding. If solo, practice explaining topics out loud.

 7. Stay Energized with Elegant Snacks

Blair wouldn’t snack on junk food. Choose something light and upscale:

Green tea, sparkling water, or artisanal coffee.

A small bowl of mixed nuts, fresh fruit, or dark chocolate.

 8. Refresh with Chic Breaks

Use breaks to pamper yourself or recharge:

Apply a hydrating face mask or spritz facial mist.

Do a quick yoga stretch or go for a short walk.

Play soft classical music or a calming playlist to reset.

 9. Set Ambitious Yet Realistic Goals

Keep your eyes on the prize. Blair's motivator was visualizing success. Remember why you're working hard, whether it’s a test or a career goal.

Reward milestones: Treat yourself after completing major tasks, like indulging in an episode of your favorite show or a mini shopping spree.

 10. End with Reflection and Gratitude

Review your accomplishments for the day. Check off completed tasks and organize any unfinished ones for tomorrow.

Tidy your study space to maintain a sense of order.

Wrap up with positive affirmations: "I am capable," or Blair's energy: "I’m the best, and I know it."

Take care of yourself <3

pt.2?

Likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated <3

[changelingsandothernonsense]

Can I ask 17, 19, and 20? For Josh and anyone else you feel inspired to answer for. :D

Hiii! Thank you so much for the ask. I'm on a huge Joshi roll again so here goes.

17. If they can, what’s their fighting style? If they’re a mage, how do they handle being silenced or running out of magicka? Josh would describe himself as a spellsword. He's always had a talent for swordplay and favours fire based destruction magic whilst he's fighting. Having said this, Josh notoriously has damaged magicka reserves so he loses energy a lot quicker than your average mage. He's also short-sighted and refuses to wear proper corrective lenses so his ranged attacks are absolutely awful. Josh has had to adapt to this set of circumstances and gets around this by summoning his Flame Atronach, Molag'tear to deal with anything at range whilst he cuts through anyone dumb enough to get within range of his blade. Josh spends a lot of his downtime training, he's got experience with a few Dunmeri versions of the Khajiiti martial arts that he picked up when he was recovering from Corprus. He's folded that, his Morag Tong training and a few Urshilaku and Redoran techniques into his swordplay. So if he does run out of magicka, which is a guarantee, he's still got something he can confidently fall back on. He would still rather turn himself into a walking torch just for the intimidation factor. It's just not always the best strategy.

19. Do they have any quirks or hidden talents? Josh doesn't mention it much, but he's got some drawing talent. He doodles a lot when he's bored and can get a pretty accurate depiction of his surrounding down if he's so inclined. Mostly you'll see this on his armour, which he draws on a lot when he's bored and because he thinks it looks fun. He's also very well-educated, and researches Tonal Architecture, the Dwemeri Language and puzzle locks in his spare time. Which means his fucking about with dwemer constructs a lot.

20. If you took their bag and upended it now, what would you find in it?

Joshi's bag is full of junk. Plain and simple. He's not really sure what he needs when he's travelling so he usually grabs everything that comes to mind and shoves it in his pack with little thought given to organisation. Having said that, the main things are. - A waterskin - Daggers (5) - Journal - Writing implements - Coin purse (might not be his) - Mysterious fluff - Food? (may be forgotten because he wasn't hungry that day) - Matze (as much as he can carry) - A pillow (forgot to take it out) - Potions (stamina, magicka, healing) (as many as he can carry). - A wrench - screwdriver - filters for his breathing device (for ashland travel) - Tobacco and papers to roll it with - Cigarette tin - Mysterious dirt - Ubara amulet

[kysoncat]

ES Journeys Main Cast: Sunshine the Eevee

Hey, hey everyone! I'm back once again to talk about another character of the ES Journeys main cast. This post will be about Sunshine.

Remember that the main thing you should know about my version of the cast is that they are supposed to be as closely accurate to how they were in the comic in terms of personality and backstory as possible while also changing things to improve them by adding, removing, or expanding things about them.

Now without further ado, here's Journeys Sunshine.

(Note: Not everything is fully fleshed out. These are just the main ideas I have and am currently trying to flesh out)

Sunshine This Eevee is known for a few things like constantly saying "aye" which EV said was based on Happy of Fairy Tail, being the adopted daughter of Speed, calling Lazuli and Silvia "mommy", wanting to evolve into a Sylveon, and being shipped with Axel.

Sunshine I honestly didn't care for a lot since she wasn't that interesting. Yeah she had a thing with a Victini named Chill but that barely was brought up and the story of how they met is in a journal. There's also that thing with Alan and being the cause of the virus and wish to happen but I honestly don't give a crap because it's the virus and timeline junk. She goes to school in the after story journal and stuff but that's in a journal. Her and Speed have a bond but I don't see it or feel it since I see Sunshine hangout with Lazuli and Silvia more in the comic. Overall I just felt like she wasn't that interesting since she was just the adorable Eevee character who calls Lazuli and Silvia "mommy" for shipping purposes. It also doesn't help she was shafted to the side like the other half of the cast who aren't Speed, Flare, Lazuli, or Silvia. I have stuff for Sunshine for ES Journeys.

Personality Sunshine is a young Eevee who loves to play and have fun with other Pokemon but is shy when meeting new Pokemon. Due to being really young she can be quite naive and doesn't know a lot about the things and the world around her which the members of the Eeveelution Squad would often have to explain to her.

Sunshine is a comforting Pokemon who makes others smile even when they're feeling down. She cares deeply about her friends and family and does her best to support them up which she does several times with the Eeveelutions Squad and Axel. She values the bonds she makes with friends and family.

Sunshine looks up to the members of the Eeveelution Squad which is both a good thing and a bad thing. She thought the members of the team were so amazing as brave and strong Pokemon and believed in them with winning their battles. She's said multiple times that she wanted to be like them which they were flattered. Sunshine's behavior is sometimes influenced by them so times when she is brave is because of them but times when she is reckless or does something foolish is also because of them.

When it comes to battling, Sunshine thought it was amazing watching the members of the Eeveelution Squad battling but when they get hurt or are getting beaten up badly she gets worried and starts crying. As she grew up she stopped crying as she believed in them and knew they would get through in the end with their battles. As for actual battling for herself she's fine with it though at first she was hesitant until after watching Speed battle a bunch of times during the team's Kanto journey..

Moves, Ability, and Battle Style Sunshine in this AU is much stronger than her comic self due to watching and receiving training from everyone of the Eeveelution Squad. Her battle style is mostly basic but at times Sunshine uses the same battle styles and techniques the Eeveelution Squad use for their battles.

Sunshine is not a normal Eevee as she is capable of using moves from each of her evolution forms without evolving into them. She can do this because Sunshine's genes are more unstable than a normal Eevee's. In order to make Sunshine not OP with her being able to use moves from her evolution forms, I had Sunshine be restricted to learning the Eevee Partner Moves from Let's Go Eevee. Sunshine learns each Partner Move by bonding with a member of the Eeveelution Squad based on their type (Ex: Bonding with Speed has Sunshine learn Buzzy Buzz) and then names the move. The Partner Moves symbolize her bond with each member of the team.

Sunshine has a wide array of moves of many Types. Her movelist and when they're learned: -Tackle (TB) -Swift (TB) -Buzzy Buzz (TB) -Bouncy Bubble (OI) -Sizzly Slide (OI) -Glitzy Glow (GS) -Sappy Seed (DP) -Freezy Frost (DP) -Baddy Bad (DP) -Helping Hand (BW) -Sparkly Swirl (XY) -Baby-Doll Eyes (XY) -Double Kick (SM) -Quick Attack (SM) -Last Resort (SM) -Extreme Evoboost (SM; Z-Move) -Max Strike (SWSH; Dynamax) -Max Geyser (SWSH; Dynamax) -Max Flare (SWSH; Dynamax) -Max Mindstorm (SWSH; Dynamax) -Max Darkness (SWSH; Dynamax) -Max Overgrowth (SWSH; Dynamax) -Max Hailstorm (SWSH; Dynamax) -Max Starfall (SWSH; Dynamax)

Sunshine's ability is Adaptability. This ability increases the power of her moves that are the same type as her which is Normal-Type.

Sunshine's Backstory In 2011 on May 30th, Sunshine's egg was found in a rundown house outside of Sunny Town. The egg was found by Speed the Jolteon, Crystal the Vaporeon, and Solarflare the Flareon who were out on a walk until Crystal decided to check out the house with Speed and Flare following her. When Speed touches the egg it hatched and Sunshine was born. She assumed Speed was her dad and called him that since he was the first thing she saw but he tells her he's not. The three siblings took Sunshine back with them to Sunny Town and when they brought her to the orphanage the mother had her stay in their room since she was fond of them more, specifically Speed.

During Sunshine's early days in the orphanage she was very shy when it came to interacting with the other kids living there. She mostly hung out with Speed, Crystal, and Flare but she eventually interacts and plays with the other kids after being reassured by the siblings and the mother of the orphanage. Sunshine would call Speed "daddy", Crystal "auntie", and Flare "uncle" for some time but because Speed and Crystal didn't like what she was calling them for their own reasons they had her call them "big brother" and "big sister". Despite calling them something else now, Sunshine would still call Speed "daddy" occasionally and he responds by telling her that she can call him that when they're alone.

In 2014, Sunshine overheard Speed, Crystal, and Flare talking about traveling Kanto and asked them about it. When they told her that they'll be leaving orphanage and won't come back for a long time, Sunshine asked if she can come with them. Speed was quick to deny her from tagging along but after some convincing from Crystal he allowed her to come along.

On April 1, 2014, Sunshine tagged along with Speed, Crystal, and Flare as they begin their journey as a competitive battling team.

Sunshine's Journey From The Beginning-Battle Frontier, Sunshine is your typical adorable character who has cute moments and stuff. Since she's so young she gets to learn things about the world as she travels with the Eeveelution Squad across the regions. She doesn't get much development but she does bond with each member of the Eeveelution Squad which results in her learning each Partner Move

In XY, Sunshine stays mostly the same as the previous series but she eventually looks after a Zygarde Cell (She has the role of Bonnie from the XY anime)

In Sun & Moon, Sunshine attends the Pokemon School with Axel. She has a group of friends she made in the school. Sunshine goes through a trial in Alola where she helps each Eeveelution (Not the Eeveelutions from the Eeveelution Squad) that would lead to her getting the Eevium Z-Crystal. At some point, Sunshine will start thinking about her parents and will get the chance to meet them thanks to Tapu Fini. Sunshine will fall in love with the Alola region along with its traditions and Pokemon in it.

In Sword & Shield, Sunshine and Axel are left behind in Kanto to attend school in Vermilion City while the Eeveelution Squad go to Galar to compete in the Galar League. Sunshine has another group of friends in this school which are the Pokemon from the after story journal. While in school, Sunshine deals with being popular for being the Eevee who was with the Eeveelution Squad and also other school issues.

In Master Journeys, Sunshine along with Axel are either in school still or joining the Eeveelution Squad on their adventures across the world. Sunshine questions what she wants to be in the future in terms of her evolution. She becomes friends with Koharu (The girl with Ash and Goh in Pokemon Journeys) and the two help each other with what they want to be in the future with Sunshine helping her decide her future career and Koharu helping her decide what she wants to evolve into.

That is all for Journeys Sunshine for now. What do you think of her? Leave your thoughts for me to read. Next post will be about Journeys Pearl which will happen later, maybe. Until then, bye!

[materialsscienceandengineering]

New recycling process could find markets for 'junk' plastic waste

Although many Americans deposit their plastic trash into the appropriate bins each week, many of those materials, including flexible films, multilayer materials and a lot of colored plastics, are not recyclable using conventional mechanical recycling methods. In the end, only about 9% of plastic in the United States is ever reused, often in low-value products. With a new technique, however, University of Wisconsin–Madison chemical engineers are turning low-value waste plastic into high-value products. The new method, described in the journal Science, could increase the economic incentives for plastic recycling and open a door to recycling new types of plastic. The researchers estimate their methods could also reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the conventional production of these industrial chemicals by roughly 60%. The new technique relies on a couple of existing chemical processing techniques. The first is pyrolysis, in which plastics are heated to high temperatures in an oxygen-free environment.

Read more.

[ausetkmt]

Salt Sugar Fat: How the Food Giants Hooked Us

Salt Sugar Fat: How the Food Giants Hooked Us

In the spring of 1999 the heads of the world's largest processed food companies, from Coca-Cola to Nabisco, gathered at Pillsbury headquarters in Minneapolis for a secret meeting. On the agenda: the emerging epidemic of obesity, and what to do about it.

Increasingly, the salt, sugar, and fat laden foods these companies produced were being linked to obesity, and a concerned Kraft executive took the stage to issue a warning: There would be a day of reckoning unless changes were made.

This executive then launched into a damning PowerPoint presentation, 114 slides in all, making the case that processed food companies could not afford to sit by, idle, as children grew sick and class-action lawyers lurked. To deny the problem, he said, is to court disaster.

When he was done, the most powerful person in the room, the CEO of General Mills, stood up to speak, clearly annoyed. And by the time he sat down, the meeting was over. Since that day, with the industry in pursuit of its win-at-all-costs strategy, the situation has only grown more dire.

Every year, the average American eats thirty-three pounds of cheese (triple what we ate in 1970) and seventy pounds of sugar (about twenty-two teaspoons a day). We ingest 8,500 milligrams of salt a day, double the recommended amount, and almost none of that comes from the shakers on our table. It comes from processed food. It is no wonder, then, that one in three adults, and one in five kids, is clinically obese.

It is no wonder that twenty-six million Americans have diabetes. The processed food industry in the U.S. accounts for $1 trillion a year in sales, and the total economic cost of this health crisis is approaching $300 billion a year. In this book the author explores his theory that the food industry has used these three essential ingredients to control much of the world's diet.

He traces the rise of the processed food industry and how addictive salt, sugar, and fat have enabled its dominance in the past half century, revealing deliberate corporate practices behind current trends in obesity, diabetes, and other health challenges. Features examples from some of the most recognizable and profitable companies and brands of the last half century, including Kraft, Coca-Cola, Lunchables, Kellogg, Frito-Lay, Nestlé, Oreos, Cargill, Capri Sun, and many more.

Every year, the average American eats thirty-three pounds of cheese and seventy pounds of sugar. Every day, we ingest 8,500 milligrams of salt, double the recommended amount, almost none of which comes from the shakers on our table.

It comes from processed food, an industry that hauls in $1 trillion in annual sales. In Salt Sugar Fat, Pulitzer Prize–winning investigative reporter Michael Moss shows how we ended up here. Featuring examples from Kraft, Coca-Cola, Lunchables, Frito-Lay, Nestlé, Oreos, Capri Sun, and many more, Moss’s explosive, empowering narrative is grounded in meticulous, eye-opening research. He takes us into labs where scientists calculate the “bliss point” of sugary beverages, unearths marketing techniques taken straight from tobacco company playbooks, and talks to concerned insiders who make startling confessions. Just as millions of “heavy users” are addicted to salt, sugar, and fat, so too are the companies that peddle them. You will never look at a nutrition label the same way again. Praise for Salt Sugar Fat “[Michael] Moss has written a Fast Food Nation for the processed food industry. Burrowing deep inside the big food manufacturers, he discovered how junk food is formulated to make us eat more of it and, he argues persuasively, actually to addict us.”—Michael Pollan “If you had any doubt as to the food industry’s complicity in our obesity epidemic, it will evaporate when you read this book.”—The Washington Post “Vital reading for the discerning food consumer.”—The Wall Street Journal “The chilling story of how the food giants have seduced everyone in this country . . . Michael Moss understands a vital and terrifying truth: that we are not just eating fast food when we succumb to the siren song of sugar, fat, and salt. We are fundamentally changing our lives—and the world around us.”—Alice Waters “Propulsively written [and] persuasively argued . . . an exactingly researched, deeply reported work of advocacy journalism.”—The Boston Globe

“A remarkable accomplishment.”—The New York Times Book Review

[sneakers-and-shakes]

Beginner’s Guide to Scrapbooking

If you’ve always wanted to scrapbook but aren't sure how to start or feel intimidated or overwhelmed by the aesthetic scrapbooks you see online, this blog post will walk you through how to get started with minimal cost or investment.

There are a few ways to scrapbook depending on your motivation for starting. Is this something you want to do as a way to hold memories? Or just aesthetics? Or maybe a bit of both?

I think the easiest way to start is if you focus on scrapbooking memories since you will already have a lot of the materials you will need without needing to buy extra things like stickers or washi tape that fit a certain aesthetic.

1: Junk Journaling

Junk journaling is a pretty popular replacement for journaling but also a great foray into scrapbooking. 

The concept is simple: keep old receipts, ticket stubs, tags from clothes, or any other pieces of paper from the activities you do and tape them into an old journal.

In junk journaling the goal is just to stick everything in the journal as a way to memorialize the experiences.

If you’re trying to scrapbook though, you should try to be more intentional with the placement and aesthetics. Choose a handful of the most visually interesting tags, receipts or stubs and try to arrange them more artfully.

You can even try to make it more aesthetic by going in and coloring blank spaces with colored pencils as a replacement for colored paper, and drawing doodles as a replacement for stickers. 

Since most of the space will be filled with receipts and stubs, there will still be a 3D element to your scrapbook even if you’re coloring and drawing to fill up space.

This is also a great place to put any pictures or polaroids if you have any printed out.

By using what you already have, this method is a great way to get started with little effort while creating an end product that is like a trip down memory lane.

(I prefer to do this type of scrapbooking once a month as a recap of the month.)

2: It’s called a “scrap” book

Pretty stationary can be pretty expensive but there are a lot of ways to find “scraps” all around that you might not think of.

-Magazines/Ads: that come through the mail (junk mail) will sometimes have colored or fun paper. (A lot of American Express ads I get come in shiny envelopes that I like to keep for scrapbooking.) Magazines, of course, will have images you can cut out as well. 

-Cardboard boxes: (Cereal, Makeup, Perfume) A lot of products come in pretty cardboard containers that usually have some sections of color without any text. Perfume and makeup containers especially will usually have minimalist designs and a lot of nice colored light cardboard on the sides that can be used to fill up a background.

-Colored pencils/markers: I said this one already, but a great substitute for not having colored paper is coloring stuff in or adding small doodles. Even small hearts or stars can add a lot to a page even if you aren’t a great artist.

-Stickers: You can make your own stickers with tape but if you’d rather just buy some, the Dollar Store and Five Below usually have some cute stickers without the expensive price tag. Also you can use colored post-it notes as replacements for stickers!

3. Technique:

There’s no “right” way to scrapbook. Just put things in whatever way makes sense and sparks joy.

That said I’ll lay out some tips here for those who aren’t sure what does spark joy yet:

-It’s better to have a smaller notebook if you don’t have as many materials because it’s easier to fill up the space.

-Generally the goal is to layer with scrapbooking rather than spreading things out. Overlap your scraps of paper with other parts to give it that scrapbook feel.

-I recommend having double sided tape, though it’s not necessary. Using masking tape to tape things on is a replacement for washi tape and you can even add doodles with markers on top of the masking tape if you want to spice it up a bit. (Make sure to use permanent markers so it doesn’t bleed.) 

-It may help to have a theme so you can pick out what scraps to use. If you’re doing personal mementos like the junk journaling method, you can limit your page to a single month to narrow things down. 

-If you’re more focused on aesthetics rather than your personal life then choosing a song or an album can be a great way to create a more structured theme to your page.

    -.- 

And with all those tips I send you off and hope that they help in your scrapbooking journey! Please share your thoughts in the comments and let me know how your pages turn out!

I've added some example pictures below of how I scrapbooked the month of June!

[excellent-health001]

You probably don’t struggle to spend hours in front of a screen, playing video games or browsing social media. These activities effortlessly capture your attention for long periods of time. But what about dedicating just half an hour to studying or working on your side business? Suddenly, that sounds like an uphill battle. Even though you know that studying or working out will benefit you in the long run, the allure of watching TV or scrolling through your phone seems much more appealing.

It’s easy to see why: one set of activities is easy and immediately gratifying, while the other requires effort and delayed rewards. Yet, some people appear to have no problem consistently tackling these more difficult tasks. So what sets them apart? And more importantly, can you train your brain to make hard things feel easier? The answer lies in understanding a key neurotransmitter: dopamine.

Dopamine isn’t just the brain’s pleasure molecule; it’s what drives us to seek out rewards. When we expect something good, our brains release dopamine, motivating us to take action. This was vividly demonstrated in experiments where researchers stimulated the reward centers of rats’ brains. The rats became so addicted to the dopamine rush that they would press a lever for hours, forsaking food and sleep until they collapsed from exhaustion.

But what happens when dopamine is blocked? The rats became lethargic, losing all motivation to seek out even basic necessities like food or water. Their will to live was sapped, even though they still enjoyed food when it was placed directly in their mouths. This highlights dopamine’s crucial role — not just in feeling pleasure, but in motivating us to pursue it.

In humans, our brains prioritize tasks based on how much dopamine they expect to receive. Low-dopamine activities, like studying or exercising, feel less appealing because they offer fewer immediate rewards. Meanwhile, high-dopamine activities like playing video games or checking social media are more enticing.

However, the constant pursuit of high-dopamine activities can lead to a dangerous cycle. Just like how a frequent drinker builds a tolerance to alcohol, your brain can develop a tolerance to dopamine. Over time, you need more and more dopamine to feel motivated, making low-dopamine tasks seem even more tedious.

This is where my book, *How I Tricked My Brain to Like Doing Hard Things (Dopamine Detox)*, comes in. I explore practical strategies to reset your brain’s dopamine levels, making it easier to tackle those difficult but important tasks. One of the key techniques is the dopamine detox, a method designed to reduce your dependence on high-dopamine activities and restore balance in your brain’s reward system.

During a dopamine detox, you take a day off from all highly stimulating activities — no phones, no video games, no junk food. Instead, you focus on simple, low-dopamine activities like walking or journaling. The goal is to allow your dopamine receptors to recover, making it easier to find satisfaction in the more challenging tasks you usually avoid.

If a full detox sounds too extreme, you can try a smaller-scale version by cutting out one high-dopamine activity for a day each week. This practice helps reduce your dopamine tolerance gradually, making it easier to enjoy and engage in activities that offer long-term benefits.

The key is to shift your brain’s reward system so that productive tasks become more enjoyable, while still allowing yourself some time for high-dopamine activities as a reward. For example, after completing an hour of focused work, you might reward yourself with 15 minutes of your favorite video game. This approach helps balance your brain’s dopamine levels, keeping you motivated without overindulging in activities that offer immediate gratification but little long-term value.

In summary, understanding and managing your dopamine levels is crucial for achieving a healthier, more balanced life. By implementing strategies like those in *How I Tricked My Brain to Like Doing Hard Things (Dopamine Detox)*, you can train your brain to find joy in the tasks that truly matter, paving the way for greater productivity and fulfillment.

Do well to follow me on twitter https://x.com/coach_lee6

[mcromwell]

You posted a TikTok where you were drawing in a sort of junk journal you'd made for playing around and using up your art supplies in and I was wondering if you have resources on how to make a book like that? I love the idea and want to make one but there's a billion different options online for how to make something like that.

Sure, I can sort of go over what I did! It might be easier in a video, so I'll record one as well and upload it to TikTok. Some other folks have been asking, as well.

But the gist of it is: I made sheafs of papers about 1/2" thick each, enough of them to where the thickness of them stacked together equaled the thickness of the book cover. I sewed them together with a very crappy version of yotsume toji (a Japanese bookbinding technique). Could I have done it the right way? Sure! Did I? Nope! I was just messing around, making a trash book. The crappiness gives it character.

The cover is an old thrifted book I cut apart for collage that was falling apart. I fixed it by gluing fabric to the inside to give it structure. But maybe your cover won't be as messed up, in which case you're good to put the pages in. Then I sewed thicker twine into the cover, just a simple stitch, which I then sewed the sheafs into.

And it's, well, let's just say it sure does meet base criteria for a book! Barely! The way I did it, the pages don't lie flat and it's not a very sturdy bind and I didn't use bookbinding cord or thread, so, you'd be better off finding and following bookbinding tutorials from professionals, for now.

I am merely a trash creature fashioning things from garbage as best my little opossum hands can muster.

Thanks for asking! I'll show more in the video!

[artisticdivasworld]

Junk Journals: What exactly are they?

This post, I want to explore a different type of art. I want us to look at junk journals and see what they are, how to make them, what to do with them, and why you should have one. We cover all sorts of other types of art information on this blog and you can reference a few here and here and here.  Now let’s see what all the fuss is about these junk journals. Have you ever even heard of them…

[velvethelth]

Losing Weight to Be Healthy

As part of healthy objectives, there are goals that individuals establish among them, and one of those goals is to lose those excess pounds. This is the period that the majority of people define as being timid or embarrassed of the appearance. The trip will, without a doubt, be challenging, but it will be full of life if it is done the correct way. The purpose of this article is to provide an introduction to the science of weight reduction, including procedures and potential problems associated with weight loss, as well as the need to maintain a moderate lifestyle.

Introduction to Weight Loss for Dummies At the end of the day, weight loss is the consequence of the body burning off surplus calories that are not being used by the body. This is what is known as a condition of caloric deficit, which occurs when the body burns up fat that it has accumulated while it is being squandered. There are a number of different elements that might influence weight reduction. Caloric intake is the number of calories that are consumed on a daily basis via the consumption of food and water.

The calorie that is burned as a result of basal metabolic rate (BMR), which is derived from both physical activity and metabolic energy.

Hormonal Factors: They include insulin, leptin, and cortisol, which also comprise hormones that involve control of appetite and body fat storage.

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Effective Techniques for Fat Burning

1. Diet plan

Diet is also one of the primary contributors to the process of fat burning. Accentuation;

Calorie Intake: An application or journal that will advise a person to eat fewer calories than he is burning.

Healthy Foods: Fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, excellent fats, and the rest enjoy a predilection

Portion Control: One uses tiny plates or measures his portions, and everything is eaten from enormous bags.

Avoid processed food: sugar consumption minimal, processed carbohydrates in limitation, and junk with high calorie contents.

 2. Exercise Daily

This is the form of workout that burns off the fats and maintains the body appropriately fit.

Cardio exercises: This is jogging, swimming, or cycling with a high rate-related heart; calories are burned up.

Building muscles: This is muscular growth that subsequently raises metabolism; this burns off the fats.

At least 150 minutes of moderate work done in a week.

Engage Movement: Gradually integrate your normal physical activities like walking, gardening, or climbing stairs.

3. Hydration

Drink enough water for weight reduction via

Reducing hunger and absorption of calories

Increasing the metabolic rate

Improving digestion and health

4. Sleep and Stress Management

Sleep: Sleep loss influences hunger hormones, so overeating happens. Use excellent hours of 7-9 per night.

Stress: A chronic condition that is related to elevated production of cortisol. So it encourages the production of fat deposits. That's no worry; partake in the process of de-stressing via meditation and/or yoga, and also deep breathing.

5. Mindful Eating

Mindful eating is a really excellent technique of dieting.

Snack around and enjoy it. With this, there will never be a recurrence of binge

Never graze in front of the television or smartphone. To this hour, your body would have been pushed to react to excellent signals.

Gut Care

Pay attention to your hunger and fullness.

Dieting Mistakes

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1. Fad Diets

Fads like extreme low-calorie dieting, detoxing, or monodiets may perform amazing for some time with a short weight loss, but these techniques are doubtful at best and harmful.

2. Overemphasize Exercise

Activity is vital, but it is a complement to a healthy diet. When the calories utilized are translated into more than that which is being burnt off by physical activity, the body system slips out of equilibrium.

3. Unrealistic Expectations

The body cannot withstand the unreasonable expectations. Rather seek modest and consistent weight reduction of 1-2 pounds a week.

4. Skipping of Meals

The dietitians very much oppose the current tendency to miss one of your meals since, if done, this instantly decreases the level of your metabolism, raises the want to eat, and ultimately ends up eating even more.

Ready to transform your body naturally? Click here to try Fat Burn Active today and experience the proven power of 11 natural ingredients. Boost your metabolism, burn fat, and achieve your dream figure with this recommended solution.

[suganya09]

How to Avoid Burnout During IAS Preparation: Practical Tips for Aspirants

Preparing for the IAS exam is a marathon, not a sprint. The long hours of study, vast syllabus, and intense competition can lead to burnout if not managed carefully. Burnout not only affects your performance but can also impact your motivation and mental well-being. Here are practical tips to help IAS aspirants stay energized and avoid burnout during their preparation journey.

1. Create a Realistic Study Schedule

While it's tempting to study for 12–14 hours a day, overloading yourself can lead to exhaustion. Instead, design a balanced study plan that includes:

Short, focused study sessions.

Regular breaks to refresh your mind.

Adequate time for revision and practice. Sticking to a realistic schedule helps maintain productivity without overwhelming your mind.

2. Prioritize Physical Health

Your body needs to support your mind during this challenging journey. Regular exercise, even as simple as walking or yoga, improves blood circulation and reduces stress. A healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and hydration is equally essential. Avoid skipping meals or relying on junk food for convenience.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Stress is inevitable, but how you manage it makes all the difference. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling can help you stay calm and focused. Even a 10-minute mindfulness session daily can rejuvenate your mind and prevent burnout.

4. Stay Connected with Supportive People

Preparing for IAS can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you're studying alone. Stay connected with family, friends, or peers who encourage and motivate you. Talking about your challenges or simply spending time with loved ones can uplift your mood and keep stress at bay.

5. Take Regular Breaks

Studying continuously for hours without breaks is counterproductive. Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, where you study for 25 minutes and take a 5-minute break. Longer breaks for hobbies, walks, or naps also help rejuvenate your mind.

6. Avoid Comparing Yourself with Others

Every aspirant’s journey is unique. Comparing your progress with others can lead to unnecessary stress and self-doubt. Focus on your own preparation, track your improvements, and celebrate small milestones along the way.

7. Incorporate Fun Activities

Don’t make IAS preparation your entire life. Balance it with activities you enjoy, like reading fiction, watching movies, or pursuing a hobby. These activities refresh your mind and make your preparation journey more sustainable.

8. Seek Professional Guidance

Sometimes, burnout happens because you’re unsure about your preparation strategy or feel stuck. Joining the best IAS academy in Coimbatore can provide you with structured coaching, expert mentorship, and peer support to keep your preparation on track and stress-free.

9. Maintain a Positive Mindset

Ups and downs are part of any competitive exam preparation. Instead of dwelling on failures, treat them as learning opportunities. Surround yourself with motivational content, success stories, or inspirational quotes to keep your spirits high.

10. Get Adequate Sleep

Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation and overall mental health. Ensure you get at least 7–8 hours of quality sleep every night. Avoid the temptation to pull all-nighters, as sleep deprivation can lead to fatigue and reduced productivity.

Conclusion

Avoiding burnout during IAS preparation requires a balanced approach that prioritizes both your mental and physical health. With the right strategies, you can stay motivated, productive, and focused on your goal.

For expert guidance and structured coaching, enroll in the best IAS academy in Coimbatore. With experienced faculty, personalized mentorship, and a supportive environment, you can ensure a stress-free and effective preparation journey.

[lavenderbluart]

Junk Journal Ideas | 10 Creative Junk Journal Ideas for Beginners

Are you tired of the same old scrapbooking techniques? 🥱 Do you long for a creative outlet that allows you to express yourself freely? Look no further than junk journaling - the art of transforming everyday items into stunning, personalized masterpieces! 🎨✨ Imagine flipping through pages filled with vintage ephemera, tea-stained paper, and fabric embellishments. Picture yourself creating nature-inspired layouts and mixed media art that tells your unique story. With junk journaling, the possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination. 🌈💡 In this blog post, we'll explore 10 Creative Junk Journal Ideas for Beginners that will ignite your creativity and set you on the path to becoming a junk journaling expert. From vintage collages to upcycled book page art, we'll cover everything you need to know to get started on this exciting journey. So grab your scissors, glue, and that stack of old magazines - it's time to dive into the wonderful world of junk journaling! 📚✂️🖌️

Understanding Junk Journaling

A. Definition and purpose Junk journaling is a creative form of self-expression that combines elements of scrapbooking, art journaling, and mixed media. It involves creating a personalized book or journal using a variety of found objects, ephemera, and everyday materials. The purpose of junk journaling is to document memories, express emotions, and explore artistic techniques in a unique and unconventional way. B. Benefits for beginners Junk journaling offers numerous benefits for beginners: - Low-pressure creativity - Stress relief and mindfulness - Improved problem-solving skills - Enhanced self-expression - Eco-friendly crafting BenefitDescriptionLow-pressure creativityNo rules or expectations, perfect for beginnersStress reliefEngaging in a relaxing, hands-on activityProblem-solvingFinding creative ways to use various materialsSelf-expressionDocumenting personal experiences and emotionsEco-friendlyRepurposing items that might otherwise be discarded C. Materials needed To start junk journaling, beginners will need: - A base journal (can be a old book, composition notebook, or handmade signatures) - Adhesives (glue sticks, liquid glue, double-sided tape) - Scissors - Writing tools (pens, markers, pencils) - Decorative papers (scrapbook paper, old book pages, magazine clippings) - Embellishments (buttons, ribbons, stickers, washi tape) - Found objects and ephemera (tickets, receipts, postcards) Now that we've covered the basics of junk journaling, let's explore some specific techniques and ideas to get you started on your creative journey.

Vintage Ephemera Collages

Now that we've covered the basics of junk journaling, let's dive into one of the most popular techniques: creating vintage ephemera collages. This art form allows you to transform old papers and images into stunning, nostalgic layouts that tell a unique story. Sourcing Old Papers and Images To create authentic vintage ephemera collages, you'll need to gather a variety of aged materials. Here are some great sources: - Antique shops and flea markets - Thrift stores and secondhand bookshops - Online marketplaces specializing in vintage ephemera - Family attics or old photo albums (with permission) - Digital vintage image collections for printing Creating Themed Layouts When designing your collages, consider organizing them around specific themes. This approach adds depth and coherence to your junk journal pages. Here's a table of theme ideas and corresponding ephemera: ThemeEphemera IdeasTravelMaps, postcards, ticket stubsNaturePressed flowers, seed packets, botanical illustrationsNostalgiaVintage advertisements, old photographs, retro labelsMusicSheet music, concert tickets, album coversLiteratureBook pages, library cards, author photos Techniques for Layering and Arranging The key to a visually appealing ephemera collage lies in the layering and arrangement. Here are some techniques to try: - Start with a base layer of tea-stained paper or vintage book pages - Overlap elements, allowing some to peek out from behind others - Use different sizes and shapes to create visual interest - Incorporate texture with fabric scraps or lace - Add depth by using foam tape to elevate certain pieces - Create focal points with larger or more colorful items Remember, there's no right or wrong way to create a vintage ephemera collage. Experiment with different arrangements until you find a composition that speaks to you. In the next section, we'll explore how to enhance your junk journal pages with tea-stained paper techniques.

Tea-Stained Paper Techniques

Tea-staining is a beloved technique in junk journaling that adds an aged, vintage look to your pages. This simple yet effective method can transform ordinary paper into beautiful, antique-looking sheets perfect for your junk journal projects. A. Supplies required To get started with tea-staining, you'll need the following items: - Black or herbal tea bags - Hot water - Paper (various types work well) - Large flat container or tray - Drying rack or clothesline - Optional: coffee grounds for darker stains B. Step-by-step staining process - Brew a strong batch of tea - Allow the tea to cool slightly - Place paper in a flat container - Pour tea over the paper, ensuring even coverage - Let the paper soak for 5-15 minutes - Carefully remove the paper and hang to dry - Once dry, iron the paper to flatten (if desired) Paper TypeSoaking TimeResultPrinter paper5-10 minutesLight, even stainCardstock10-15 minutesDeeper, more textured stainBook pages3-5 minutesDelicate, aged appearance C. Creative uses for tea-stained pages Tea-stained paper can be used in numerous ways within your junk journal: - Background pages for collages - Vintage-style envelopes and pockets - Handwritten journaling on aged paper - DIY tags and labels - Torn edges for a distressed look Experiment with different tea types and soaking times to achieve various shades and effects. This versatile technique will add depth and character to your junk journal pages, enhancing the overall vintage aesthetic. Now that you've mastered tea-staining, let's explore how to incorporate fabric and lace embellishments to further enhance your junk journal's texture and visual appeal.

Fabric and Lace Embellishments

Adding fabric and lace to your junk journal can create a tactile and visually appealing experience. These materials add texture, depth, and a touch of vintage charm to your pages. Let's explore how to effectively incorporate these elements into your junk journal. Choosing complementary textiles When selecting fabrics and laces for your junk journal, consider the following factors: - Color palette: Choose textiles that complement your journal's overall color scheme - Texture variety: Mix smooth and textured fabrics for visual interest - Theme consistency: Select fabrics that align with your journal's theme (e.g., floral prints for a garden-themed journal) Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right textiles: Fabric TypeBest Used ForTextureCottonBackgrounds, pocketsSmoothLaceBorders, overlaysDelicateBurlapRustic accentsCoarseSilkElegant touchesSmooth, shinyFeltEmbellishments, die-cutsSoft, thick Sewing vs. gluing techniques Both sewing and gluing have their merits when attaching fabric to your junk journal pages. Consider these points: - Sewing: - Provides a more secure attachment - Adds an authentic, handmade look - Allows for creation of pockets and flaps - Gluing: - Quicker and easier for beginners - Works well for delicate fabrics - Ideal for small embellishments Choose the technique that best suits your skill level and desired aesthetic. Incorporating vintage clothing scraps Vintage clothing scraps can add a unique and personal touch to your junk journal. Here are some creative ways to use them: - Create pocket fronts using vintage handkerchiefs - Use buttons from old clothing as embellishments - Cut out interesting patterns or motifs from vintage garments - Repurpose lace trim from old linens as page borders By incorporating these fabric and lace embellishments, you'll add depth and personality to your junk journal pages. Next, we'll explore how to create nature-inspired junk journal pages to further enhance your creative journey.

Nature-Inspired Junk Journal Pages

Nature offers a wealth of inspiration for junk journaling, allowing you to bring the outdoors into your creative projects. Let's explore how to incorporate natural elements into your junk journal pages. Pressing and Preserving Leaves and Flowers Collecting and preserving botanical specimens is a wonderful way to add authentic natural elements to your junk journal. Here's a simple process: - Collect fresh leaves and flowers - Place them between sheets of absorbent paper - Press under heavy books for 1-2 weeks - Carefully remove and attach to journal pages Specimen TypePressing TimeBest Uses in JournalThin leaves1 weekLayering, bordersFlowers2 weeksFocal points, accentsFerns10 daysBackground textures Creating Textures with Natural Materials Natural materials can add unique textures to your journal pages: - Bark rubbings: Place thin paper over tree bark and rub with a crayon - Sand textures: Apply glue and sprinkle sand for a gritty feel - Grass impressions: Press fresh grass onto an ink pad, then stamp onto paper Incorporating Nature-Themed Sketches Enhance your nature-inspired pages with simple sketches: - Quick botanical illustrations - Animal silhouettes - Landscape outlines These sketches can frame your pressed specimens or stand alone as artistic elements. Now that we've explored nature-inspired junk journal pages, let's move on to incorporating mixed media art techniques to further enhance your journal's visual appeal.

Mixed Media Art in Junk Journals

Combining different art mediums Mixed media art in junk journals offers endless possibilities for creativity. By combining various art mediums, you can create unique and visually striking pages. Here are some popular combinations: - Watercolors and ink - Acrylics and colored pencils - Collage and stamping - Markers and pastels Creating dimensional elements Adding dimension to your junk journal pages can make them more engaging and interactive. Try these techniques: - Layering papers and fabrics - Using foam tape for pop-up elements - Incorporating found objects or small trinkets - Creating pockets or fold-out sections Experimenting with textures and colors Textures and colors play a crucial role in mixed media art journaling. Here's a table showcasing different texture techniques and their effects: TechniqueEffectMaterialsGessoCreates a textured baseGesso, palette knifeEmbossingAdds raised patternsEmbossing powder, heat toolTissue paperCreates delicate wrinklesTissue paper, mod podgeTexture pasteAdds thick, moldable textureTexture paste, stencils When experimenting with colors, consider: - Creating a cohesive color palette for each spread - Using contrasting colors for visual interest - Layering transparent and opaque colors for depth - Incorporating metallic or iridescent paints for a special touch By exploring these mixed media techniques, you'll add depth and intrigue to your junk journal pages, making each spread a unique work of art.

Pocket Pages and Interactive Elements

Pocket pages and interactive elements add depth and intrigue to your junk journal, making it a truly engaging experience. Let's explore some creative ways to incorporate these elements into your journal. Designing hidden journaling spots Hidden journaling spots are perfect for keeping private thoughts or adding an element of surprise to your journal. Consider these ideas: - Create a fold-out flap behind a photo or artwork - Use a pull-out tab to reveal hidden text - Design a secret pocket behind a decorative element Creating fold-out sections Fold-out sections add dimension and allow for more content in a limited space. Try these techniques: - Accordion folds for mini-albums within your journal - Gatefold pages for revealing larger artworks or photos - Flip-up sections for layered storytelling Incorporating envelopes and tags Envelopes and tags are versatile elements that can serve both decorative and functional purposes. Here's a comparison of ways to use them: ElementDecorative UseFunctional UseEnvelopesColorful backgroundsStorage for ephemeraTagsLayered embellishmentsJournaling prompts To make your pocket pages and interactive elements more cohesive, consider using a consistent color scheme or theme throughout. This will tie your journal together while still allowing for creativity and surprise in each interactive element. Now that we've explored pocket pages and interactive elements, let's move on to another exciting aspect of junk journaling: upcycled book page art.

Upcycled Book Page Art

Transforming old book pages into stunning art pieces is a fantastic way to add character to your junk journal. This section explores creative techniques for upcycling book pages, turning forgotten texts into captivating visual elements. Finding and Preparing Old Book Pages To begin your upcycled book page art journey, you'll need to source suitable materials: - Thrift stores - Library book sales - Online marketplaces - Personal collection Once you've acquired old books, carefully remove pages, ensuring they're free from damage. Consider the following preparation methods: - Gentle cleaning with a soft brush - Tea-staining for an aged appearance - Trimming edges for a uniform look Blackout Poetry Techniques Blackout poetry is a fascinating way to create art from existing text. Here's a simple process to get started: - Choose a page with interesting words - Lightly circle words that form a poem or message - Use a marker to black out the rest of the text - Add illustrations or designs around the revealed words TechniqueDescriptionDifficultyComplete blackoutCover all text except chosen wordsEasyPartial blackoutLeave some text visible for contextMediumShape blackoutCreate shapes with negative spaceAdvanced Creating Illustrations on Book Pages Book pages provide a unique canvas for your artwork. Try these ideas: - Sketch nature scenes that complement the text - Paint abstract designs using watercolors - Create zentangle patterns in empty spaces - Collage images and text from other sources Remember to seal your finished book page art with a fixative spray to preserve your creation. With these techniques, you'll transform ordinary book pages into extraordinary junk journal elements. Next, we'll explore how to add flair to your journal with washi tape and sticker decorations.

Washi Tape and Sticker Decorations

Now that we've explored various creative techniques for your junk journal, let's dive into the colorful world of washi tape and sticker decorations. These versatile materials can add instant charm and personality to your pages. Selecting complementary patterns When choosing washi tape and stickers for your junk journal, consider the following tips: - Color coordination: Select tapes and stickers that match or complement your page's color scheme - Theme consistency: Choose designs that align with your journal's overall theme or the specific page topic - Texture variety: Mix smooth and textured tapes for visual interest Here's a quick guide to help you match patterns: Pattern TypeComplementary PatternsFloralStripes, polka dotsGeometricSolid colors, scriptVintageLace, postage stampsNatureWatercolor, woodgrain Creative washi tape border ideas Washi tape isn't just for straight lines! Try these creative border ideas: - Scalloped edges: Fold the tape in half and cut rounded edges - Layered borders: Overlap different tapes for a unique look - Frayed edges: Carefully pull apart the tape for a distressed effect - Washi tape frames: Create frames around photos or journaling spots Making custom stickers from junk mail Transform your junk mail into personalized stickers with these steps: - Cut out interesting images or text from magazines or catalogs - Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge or clear glue to the back - Let it dry completely - Peel off and stick to your journal pages By incorporating washi tape and stickers, you'll add delightful pops of color and texture to your junk journal. Next, we'll explore how to integrate personal memorabilia for a truly unique touch to your creations.

Personal Memorabilia Integration

Personal memorabilia can transform your junk journal into a unique and meaningful keepsake. By incorporating items that hold sentimental value, you create a journal that tells your story and preserves your memories. Let's explore some creative ways to integrate personal memorabilia into your junk journal. Incorporating ticket stubs and receipts Ticket stubs and receipts are perfect additions to your junk journal, serving as tangible reminders of experiences and purchases. Here are some ideas: - Create a pocket page to store multiple ticket stubs - Use a clear plastic sleeve to display a special receipt - Fold receipts into envelopes to hold additional memorabilia ItemJournaling IdeaMovie ticketsCreate a mini-review pageConcert ticketsAdd song lyrics or setlistRestaurant receiptsWrite about the dining experience Using old photos and postcards Old photos and postcards add a visual element to your journal, bringing memories to life. Try these techniques: - Create photo corners using washi tape - Use vintage-style paper clips to attach photos - Make flip-up elements with postcards to reveal hidden journaling Adding personal handwritten elements Incorporating your own handwriting adds a personal touch to your junk journal. Consider these ideas: - Write quotes or lyrics that resonate with you - Include short diary entries or reflections - Add handwritten labels or captions to photos and memorabilia By integrating these personal elements, your junk journal becomes a unique reflection of your experiences and memories. Read the full article