Ephemera are paper items that were never meant to last. Things like tickets, postcards, handwritten notes, labels, receipts, and old book pages were created for everyday use, not for keeping. And yet, these small paper pieces often hold the most feeling.
In creative journaling and paper craft, ephemera bring warmth, texture, and story. They add a sense of history, even when they’re newly printed. A scrap of handwriting or a faded label can make a page feel lived-in and personal.
Ephemera works so beautifully in junk journals because it removes pressure. You’re not starting with a blank white page. You’re responding to something that already exists — a colour, a word, a shape. This makes the process gentler and more intuitive.
Many people use ephemera as a starting point:
- A floral label becomes the colour palette for a page
- A vintage ticket inspires a memory or reflection
- A handwritten-style note becomes a journaling prompt
Printed ephemera is especially helpful if you enjoy the look of vintage paper but want the ease of working at home. You can print only what you need, repeat favourite pieces, and combine them with found paper for a handmade feel.
Ephemera isn’t about perfection or accuracy. It’s about mood. It invites you to slow down, choose what feels right, and create pages that feel comforting rather than polished.