How to Decoupage a Personal Journal

Putting your emotions on the page can be a powerful way to relieve stress. Making a journal that suits your personal style makes the process even more meaningful. Below are clear, step-by-step directions to create your own DIY Decoupaged Personal Journal.

I received some of these supplies from Oriental Trading Company for an Instagram post, but this blog post and the opinions are entirely my own.

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These are unusual times and many of us are feeling extra stress and anxiety. Creating and journaling have always been calming activities for me, and this decoupaged journal project is a simple, satisfying way to combine creativity and reflection. This tutorial walks you through turning a plain canvas journal into a personalized decoupaged notebook using Mod Podge, scrapbook paper and a few small embellishments.

Materials used for this DIY Decoupaged Personal Journal:

• White canvas journal (small size works best)
• Scrapbook paper (I used a navy floral pattern)
• Mod Podge® Matte Acrylic Sealer
• Paint brush
• Scissors
• Natural jute cording / twine
• Small skeleton key charm or other jewelry charm
• Unfinished wood letters (optional for personalization)
• Blue washable paint (optional for painting wood letters)

I adore this blue floral pattern — it feels a bit like classic toile or Blue Willow china and pairs beautifully with natural twine and small metal charms.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Prepare your pieces. Place the canvas journal, your chosen scrapbook paper and Mod Podge within reach. The canvas journals I used measure about 3 3/4″ x 5 3/4″. To cover the outside fully, cut the scrapbook paper to roughly 6″ x 9″.

2. Wrap and crease. Wrap the cut scrapbook paper around the journal and use your fingers to crease it carefully along the spine so the paper conforms to the shape of the cover.

3. Apply Mod Podge as glue. Using a paint brush, paint a thin, even coat of Mod Podge over the front cover and spine. This will act as a glue for the scrapbook paper.

4. Adhere the paper. Wrap the paper around the journal and press it into the Mod Podge. Use a second journal, ruler, or another straight edge to press the paper into the spine and get a crisp, smooth line.

5. Let it set. Allow the cover to dry about 10 minutes so the paper adheres properly before trimming any excess.

6. Trim the edges. If any paper extends past the edges of the journal, trim it carefully so the paper is flush with the cover.

7. Seal the cover. Apply another coat of Mod Podge over the outside of the journal. Start with the front and spine and let that dry for about 20 minutes or until it is no longer tacky. Then seal the back cover and let it dry as well.

8. Secure interior twine. Cut a piece of twine about 12 inches long and glue one end to the center of the inside front cover and the other end to the inside back cover using Mod Podge. This will allow you to wrap a decorative piece of twine around the outside while keeping the ends hidden inside.

If you prefer, cover the glued twine ends with a small scrap of scrapbook paper to conceal them and add a neat finish to the inside covers.

Embellishments and personalization

9. Add charm and detail. Thread a small loop of twine through a skeleton key charm (or other small charm) and tie it onto the exterior twine. This creates the impression of a single bow wrapped around the journal even when there are actually two separate pieces of string. If the charm is heavy, a small dot of Mod Podge will keep it from sliding.

10. Personalize with a wooden initial. For an extra personal touch, paint an unfinished wooden letter to match the journal and glue it to the corner of the cover. I painted mine blue to coordinate with the floral paper and adhered it with Mod Podge. This step is optional but makes a lovely gift idea.

A for Angie — or A for Awesome — either one will do.

I made several of these journals as gifts for family and friends, each with a different paper, key charm and painted initial. They make thoughtful presents and are quick to assemble once you have the supplies ready.

I use mine every day — one for dreams, another for venting, and a third for everyday notes. Journals like these encourage creativity and provide a private space to process thoughts and feelings.

More crafts you might enjoy:

• Free printable recipe cards
• Holiday potpourri gift packaging with printables
• Seasonal party planning printables

Items I used for this DIY Decoupaged Personal Journal

• White Canvas Journal
• Scrapbook Paper (navy floral recommended)
• Mod Podge® Matte Acrylic Sealer
• Paint Brush
• Scissors
• Natural Jute Cording / Twine
• Skeleton Key Charm
• Unfinished Wood Letters
• Blue Washable Paint