How to Create a Journal Jar

Do you ever bemoan the fact that you have nothing to journal about? A journal jar is the perfect way to break through writer's block. It also makes a perfect gift. A journal jar is simply a small container that holds strips of paper with journaling prompts written on them. When you don't know what to write about -- dip into the journal jar, pull out a strip and start writing.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Jar
• Cardstock paper (preferred)
• Printer ink
• Scissors
• Clear tape (wide)

1. Go to a discount store and look over the jars. You can use any size or type of jar that you prefer. Glass jars look nice and are relatively inexpensive. You can pick up jars used for preserves (they have lids that snap on) for very little money. Your journal jar does not have to actually be a jar, however. You can use a decorative box or an old coffee can.

2. Make a list of journal prompts. You can find prompts at hundreds of sites on the Internet, or you can make up your own. Some suggestions include: Firsts, Favorites, Best, Worst, etc. For example: Write about the first bike you ever owned. Or: What is your favorite color and why?

3. Type all of your prompts on the computer, or you can handwrite them if you have nice handwriting. Play with different fonts and colors to make your prompts appealing. Keep prompts short and to the point. Print them on different colors of cardstock. Cardstock holds up better than regular printer paper.

4. Use fancy scissors to cut your prompts into small strips. You can scallop the edges or cut the corners off the strips. If you just want to make your strips quickly and forget the fancy stuff, simply use a paper cutter to quickly cut out your strips.

5. Gather your journal prompt strips and place them in the jar. Some people have a second jar that they use to place prompts that they have already written about. Others place the strip back in the original jar and just write on that topic again if they pull it out a second or third time.

6. Decorate your jar (or box or can). Make a nice label that says "Journal Jar" or something like that, and use a wide strip of clear packaging tape to affix it to the jar. Be creative and add graphics or original artwork. You can also place a label with instructions on how to use the journal prompts on the other side of the jar. Attach ribbon or raffia around the top of the jar for additional decoration.

Tips & Warnings

• Commit yourself to dipping into the jar every day for a writing prompt. Sell your journal jars at craft fairs. Give your journal jars away as gifts. Consider also making a memoir prompt jar.

Resources

• Journal Prompts for Kids
• Journal Writing Prompts