The dollar store is my happy place, especially when it comes to buying junk journal products. The craft aisle is packed with stuff you can use.
If you find yourself struggling to justify the prices at Michaels or other higher end craft stores, just remember . . . there’s nothing wrong with dollar store items. Most of them are the same quality as the bigger stores, but they’re much cheaper. It’s always worth taking a spin through the cheaper store to see what’s available.
One of these days, I’ll do a dollar store junk journal haul, but for now, here are 5 things you should buy at the dollar store.
1. Washi Tape
Washi tape is a quick and easy way to decorate your pages, but it can get a little pricy, depending on where you buy it from. The dollar store is a good place to get lots of options for a few bucks.
I recently picked up a set of 12 washi tapes for $1.25. The designs aren’t incredible, but they are stripes and dots that will go with just about any page design, in multiple colors. Definitely check for some washi tape.
2. Fancy Scissors
All my scissors come from the dollar store. It’s just easier to buy them there since my kids lose them constantly. However, what you may not realize is that many stores have fun scissors for cutting fancy borders.
Now, a disclaimer . . . if you plan to cut a lot of edges, you’ll probably want to invest in top quality cutting supplies. If you just want a wavy border here and there, then these dollar store scissors are just fine.
3. Pretty Journal Paper
One thing that abounds in my local Dollarama is books and packs of decorative paper. These can be used in so many ways! Try making borders or shapes from them, cut out a specific design, like a flower or heart, or use it as a background.
I also like to trim the papers and make them into envelopes that look extra pretty. I recently picked up a pack of unicorn and fantasy paper, which I will be showcasing on Tiktok soon.
4. Hardcover Journals
You can make your own junk journals, of course, but some people like to start with a notebook. I like the hardcover ones you can buy at the dollar store. They’re pretty cheap for the size and quality and if they have weird covers, you can just cover them up.
Even the soft cover notebooks can work as journals if you like. They aren’t as sturdy, but they are certainly enough to make a fun book.
5. Stickers
We all love stickers for our junk journals and there are some seriously awesome stickers to be found in your local dollar store. Make sure you check regularly, since they can change with the seasons.
Other Junk Journal Supplies to Consider
Of course, those aren’t the only things you can pick up at your local shop. Keep an eye out for:
- Glue sticks
- Double-sided tape
- Craft supplies like feathers and felt
- Seasonal tissue paper
- Ribbons
- Yarn and lace
There are quite a few things to look for once you have the idea in your mind. Just take a hike through the store and see what you come up with.