Creative Connections Through Junk Journalling
In February, Wild Earth Movement hosted a free Weekend Wellbeing Workshop at Merry Hill, inviting people to step away from screens and spend a calm, creative morning learning the art of junk journalling. Using recycled books, fabrics, magazines and found materials, participants were guided through the process of transforming everyday items into personal journals, designed to hold memories and moments throughout the year ahead.
The session was centred around creativity, connection and wellbeing, offering a welcoming space where people could slow down, try something new and enjoy making together. Open to everyone, whether they considered themselves creative or not, the workshop encouraged participants to embrace experimentation, with mess and individuality celebrated as part of the process.
Supported by Creative Black Country’s Creative Communities strand, the workshop brought together a group of participants for a wholesome morning of crafting, conversation and community building. The feedback from both the organisers and those who attended highlights just how meaningful the experience was.
Feedback from the project organiser (Lily, Wild Earth Movement):
“The workshop was incredibly well received, everyone left with a beautiful journal, phone numbers and details were exchanged and plans to meet between attendees formulated throughout the session as connections were built. Participants left excited to carry on junk journalling and said that they hoped we could run the same session next year so that they could return and show me what they had done. Participants expressed how wonderful it was to slow down and spend intentional time making something and meeting new people, taking a moment for themselves. The amount of gratitude for the session from participants was overwhelming and a real reminder of why we do this kind of work and the positive impact it has.”
“As a result of the event, we have received multiple enquiries about running similar workshops in care homes and residential homes within the Black Country, and have been asked whether this could be an annual session by those who attended the session. This was a new workshop concept for us and development of the session has allowed us to refine our skills in sewing journal covers and diving deeper into techniques for junk journalling which can be delivered at future sessions. As a result of this session we are looking to develop a well-being programme linked to intentional time, mindfulness and creativity.”
Feedback from participants:
Absolutely wonderful experience, Lily & Rosie are so helpful and kind. Such a wonderful concept, huge thank you! 🩷
An absolute delight 🩷. A dreamy creative escape, a safe, warm, friendly environment 😊 I loved the all-female community and I’m really grateful for all the materials, space, food and drink provide. Will definitely be returning and continue to work on my junk journal 😊. Thank you Lily and Rosie.
Absolutely fabulous session with time to relax and do something for me. Thank you 😊
Today was absolutely amazing. Myself and my 8 year old daughter loved it and can’t wait to continue this hobby together. X.
Thank you so much for a lovely morning. I had a lovely, fantastic, peaceful, calm time with my friends and lovely company. Thank you for such a generous time.
Journal photos courtesy of Lily from Wildearth Movement