Basic Supplies

• Blank Journal or Scrapbook – Choose an acid-free scrapbook with sturdy pages that can hold photos and embellishments.
• Cardstock – Heavy-weight cardstock in summer colors provides perfect backgrounds for photos and writing.
• Adhesives – Double-sided tape,  staples and acid-free glue secure items without damaging photos.
• Writing Tools – Colorful pens and fine-tip markers for journaling and decorating.

Decorative Elements

• Washi Tape – Summer-themed washi tape adds color and secures photos and mementos.
• Photo Corners – Self-adhesive photo corners allow you to remove photos without damage.
• Decorative Scissors – Patterned scissors create interesting borders for photos and paper.
• Embellishments – Summer-themed stickers and small decorative elements add personality.

Before adding memories, take time to prepare your journal. This foundation work ensures your finished product will be both beautiful and durable.

• Choose a theme that reflects your summer experiences (beach days, road trips, backyard adventures).
• Create a title page with your journal name, the year, and perhaps a favorite summer photo.
• Consider dividing your journal into sections by month, location, or activity type.
• Number your pages if they aren’t already numbered to help with organization.

• Use cardstock or decorative paper as page backgrounds.
• Create borders with washi tape in complementary colors.
• Add watercolor washes for beach or sunset-themed pages.
• Consider leaving space for journaling beside photo areas.

• Print photos in sizes that fit your journal layout (4×6, 3×3, wallet size).
• Secure photos with photo corners or adhesive that won’t damage them.
• Create pockets from cardstock to hold ticket stubs, maps, or brochures.
• Consider adding pressed flowers, small shells, or other flat natural items.

• Date each entry to create a timeline of your summer.
• Include specific details that photos might not capture (sounds, smells, conversations).
• Write about your feelings and reflections, not just activities.
• Consider using prompts like “Best moment today was…” or “I never want to forget…”

Sand Pocket

Create a small envelope from clear plastic and washi tape. Fill with a pinch of sand from your beach visits and secure it to your page. Label with the beach name and date.

Pressed Flowers

Flowers from a garden visit or hiking trail can be pressed between book pages, then carefully attached to your journal with a tiny dot of glue.

Fold-Out Maps

Attach a folded map of places you visited, marking special locations with small stickers or hand-drawn stars.

QR Code Links

Generate QR codes that link to your digital videos or photo albums, then print and paste them into your journal for a multimedia experience.

Handwritten Elements

• Personal reflections and stories
• Quotes that captured your mood
• Hand-drawn sketches of memorable scenes
• Lettering for section titles and dates

Digital Elements

• Printed journaling prompts
• Typography for quotes or poems
• Printed maps with highlighted routes
• QR codes linking to videos or playlists

Protection from Environmental Damage

• Avoid direct sunlight which can fade photos and writing.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity that can cause warping.
• Use archival spray on non-paper items to prevent deterioration.
• Consider an acid-free storage box for long-term preservation.

Handling and Sharing

• Wash hands before handling to prevent oil transfer.
• Support the spine when opening to prevent binding damage.
• Consider digitizing special pages for easy sharing.
• Create a digital backup by scanning completed pages.