All-Purpose White Glue

In the world of junk journals, perfection isn’t the goal—expression, layering, and joy are. Pages wrinkle, papers overlap, edges lift, and that’s part of the charm. Because of that, I’ve always believed that the tools we use should support creativity without unnecessary risk or complexity.

After years of making junk journals, I’ve settled on a simple favorite: white, non-toxic tacky glue. It may not sound glamorous, but it has proven itself again and again.

Many industrial or “heavy-duty” adhesives contain chemicals such as acrylamides or other harsh compounds designed for permanent, high-stress bonds. While those glues have their place, junk journaling usually doesn’t require that level of intensity—and prolonged exposure to more toxic adhesives can be something mindful crafters prefer to avoid. White non-toxic glues are designed for frequent, hands-on use, making them a more comfortable choice for:

• Long crafting sessions
• Small indoor workspaces
• Artists who prefer low-odor supplies
• Those who craft daily or seasonally

For me, crafting should feel calming—not clinical.

Junk journals are not typially archival documents or museum pieces. They’re meant to be handled, loved, stuffed with ephemera, and sometimes reworked. That’s where tacky glue shines:

• Strong enough to hold paper, fabric, lace, and collage layers
• Flexible when dry, allowing pages to bend naturally
• Forgiving—you can reposition pieces briefly without panic
• Dries clear, even when used generously

If a corner lifts slightly over time? That’s okay. A little glue and a little love fixes it. That imperfection is part of the story.

One of the biggest benefits I’ve noticed over the years is how pleasant white non-toxic glue is to work with. No strong chemical smell. No headaches. No need to rush because something is curing too fast or too hard. This makes it ideal for:

• Evening crafting
• Small studios or shared spaces
• Relaxed, intuitive journaling sessions

Creativity flows better when your body feels at ease.

Junk journaling is about using what you have, slowing down, and embracing the beauty of repurposed materials. Choosing a simpler, safer adhesive aligns beautifully with that philosophy. It doesn’t need to be industrial. It doesn’t need to be permanent forever. It just needs to work—and it does.

After years of trial and error, Aleene's is the white all-purpose glue I personally use and trust in my own journals. I especially love the "always ready" containers of Tacky Glue that are designed to sit upside-down.

It’s the same glue I reach for whether I’m attaching book pages, fabric scraps, pockets, or delicate ephemera—and it has never let me down.