The Elemental Journal

Create Expressive Books from Salvaged Treasures

Rusty doorknobs, cardboard containers and plastic packaging may seem like trash to some, but through the creative mind, they are transformed into beautiful expressions - equally parts artful book and assemblage. The Elemental Journal will show you how to craft a wide variety of journals to hold your secrets or express your inner thoughts, and discover new ways to use wood, paper, fabric, plastic and metal in your art.

Peek inside The Elemental Journal and you will find...

• 15 stepped-out journal projects made from unusual materials and found objects, from tree bark to dismantled photo albums to tin boxes.
• Tips for seeking out materials for your journals in flea markets, garage sales, and in your own attic or trash can.
• Inspiring gallery projects from 9 contributing artists, including Susan Tuttle, Jen Osborn and Jill Berry.

One artist's trash is another's treasure. Discover yours with The Elemental Journal.

My Review:


The Elemental Journal contains material lists and instructions, with pictures, for making journals from wood, plastic, paper, fabric and metal. There are also pictures of other journals to inspire you to be creative to make more.


You don't have to be super crafty to make these journals, either. They're are easy ones that even kids would be able to make.

These journals will be loved by all who keep a diary. I can't wait to make some of these for Christmas gifts. I think these would be a great place to keep your to-do list, also. I know I would be inspired to pick one of these gorgeous and creative journals up to look at it. Some are small enough to carry with you, some are more suited to keeping on a desk or table. All are very decorative.

I have not made one yet, but I have read the directions, and looked at the pictures. All the directions are easy to follow, with pictures showing each step. A lot of them use items that would others consider to be trash. What a great, useful way to re-use something that others throw away. There are even projects using old toys!

The Elemental Journal is a great instructional book for making journals for yourself or as gifts.





*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through BookSneeze. I received no other compensation. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255“Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”