Interested in collaging or creative journaling—but not sure where to start with supplies?
I've been building my own collection for a while now, and the truth is: you don't need much to begin. The most important thing is just having a few reliable tools and a small stash of materials to work with. Everything else grows naturally from there.
Here's what I actually use and recommend.
The Basics — What You Actually Need
These are the must-haves. If you're starting from zero, get these first!
Adhesive A good glue stick for paper layers, plus a liquid adhesive (like Mod Podge) for sealing finished pages or adhering heavier pieces. Washi tape is also endlessly useful for both function and decoration.
Scissors + a craft knife Sharp scissors for general cutting, and a craft knife with a cutting mat for clean, precise edges when you want them.
A surface to work on A journal, a blank notebook, loose cardstock, or even a canvas. There's no wrong answer here—start with whatever you have.
Paper and ephemera Old magazines, vintage books, scrapbook paper, tissue paper, packaging, envelopes—anything with color, texture, or words you love. This is the heart of the practice. You'll naturally start collecting and saving things everywhere.
My Favorite Products — Shop My Amazon List
I've compiled my full, curated supply list on Amazon with everything I use regularly:
→ Browse My Collage Supply List on Amazon
This includes specific product recommendations for adhesives, cutting tools, paper, and more.
Curated Ephemera — From My Shop
If you want to skip the sourcing and start creating right away, I've done the curation for you.
Affirmation Collage Kit — 100+ pieces of curated vintage ephemera, affirmations, and washi tape, ready to use straight out of the box. This is what I reach for most in my own practice.
150 Positive Affirmation Pack — Typewritten affirmations designed to cut up, layer, and collage into your pages.
Affirmation Washi Tape — Washi tape printed with the mantra I am creating the life of my dreams. Useful in collage, journaling, and anywhere you want a little intention.
Affirmation Sticker Set — Three mantras to stick anywhere sacred.
Free Guides to Get You Started
Once you have your supplies, these guides will walk you through the actual techniques:
- Creative Guide to Junk Journaling — A free beginner's guide to building spreads, sourcing ephemera, and embracing the imperfect process. A great starting point if you're new.
- Creative Guide to Pressing Flowers — How to press, preserve, and incorporate botanicals into your collage and journaling work.
- Creative Guide to Polaroid Emulsion Lifts — A step-by-step guide to the lift technique, with tips for framing and display.
All three are free. You can also find them (and more) on my Free Resources page.
Want to Learn More?
If you're curious about the practice before committing to supplies, these posts are a good place to start:
- Junk Journaling 101 — Transform Everyday Ephemera into Art of Self-Expression
- Polaroid Emulsion Lift — Where Photography Becomes Art
The supplies matter less than you think. Start with what you have, and build from there!