Using Tags & Journaling Spots in Mixed Media & Scrapbooking

Tags and journaling spots are one of the most versatile and essential elements in scrapbooking, junk journaling, and mixed media art. Whether you’re building layered scrapbook pages, creating mini albums, or designing expressive layouts, they provide structure, texture, and storytelling space in a way few other products can.

They are a place to write, hide, layer, and reveal — or simply allow design elements to breathe within your composition.

At Scrapping Clearly, the range of tags, die-cuts, journaling pieces, and Luckyfindings designs from leading creative brands makes it easy to build depth, detail, and storytelling into every project.

Why Tags Matter (and How to Use Them)

Tags are more than embellishments — they are functional storytelling elements that help shape your page.

They can:

• Add journaling space
• Create focal points
• Build interactive pockets
• Anchor embellishment clusters
• Introduce texture without bulk

With a little mixed media layering, a simple tag can become so much more. It can be a focal feature, a hidden journaling pocket, a cluster foundation, a textured collage surface, or even the starting point of a mini artwork.
Add paint, stamping, collage papers, stitching, and layered ephemera, and even the simplest tag becomes something richly dimensional.
Often, it’s the smallest element that carries the most story.
Once you start thinking of tags as storytelling tools rather than just embellishments, everything opens up. The base you choose can completely change how a page develops — whether you prefer raw mixed media layers, delicate detailing, or bold expressive clusters. This is where inspiration turns into creation.

      Curative Collective Team member Lisa Oxley

Tag & Journaling Spot Inspiration – Scrapping Clearly

At Scrapping Clearly, you’ll find a wide range of tags, journaling spots, die-cuts, and creative bases designed to suit every style. From raw surfaces ready for paint and ink through to decorative pieces and Luckyfindings designs, everything is designed to help you build layered, meaningful compositions.

Let’s break it down so you can quickly find what suits your creative process.

Classic & Mixed Media Base Tags

Best for: altering and building from the ground up

Tim Holtz Idea-Ology Salvaged Tags
Dina Wakley Media Square Tags &  Media Metal Rimmed Tags
Dyan Reaveley Dylusions Journal Tags
7gypsies 97% Complete range
selected LUCKYfindings foundational pieces

Decorative & Designer Tags

Best for: fast, themed, cohesive page building

Art by Marlene Luxury Paper Tags
Heidi Swapp Tags
Fancy Pants Designs Gift Tags & Labels
STAMPERIA themed collections

Journaling Spots & Ephemera Layers

Best for: layering, tuck spots, and storytelling details

We R Memory Keepers Vellum Tag Pockets
49 and Market Die-Cut Elements & Ephemera Packs  

Journaling labels

Fabric & Specialty Tags

Best for: texture, contrast, and mixed media depth

Cedar Lane Metallic Thread Fabric Tags
Fabric embellishment tags
LUCKYfindings specialty mixed media substrates

Luckyfindings Signature Designs

Best for: storytelling and layered composition work

Assemblage Tags
Mini Curiosities Tags
Curiosities Tags 
Groundworks imagery sheets
Artist Trading Collectives

These are more than tags — they are story fragments designed to be layered, altered, and reimagined.

DIY Tags & Stamping Systems

Best for: complete creative control

Dina Wakley Perforated Tag Stamps
Darkroom Door frame & label stamps
Stencil + stamp combinations that create tag shapes

Layering Tags: Where the Magic Happens

The magic happens when you start combining elements.

• a painted or stamped base tag

• a die-cut journaling piece

• a Luckyfindings mini tag

• a vellum or transparent layer

Try layering:

Then add stitching, inked edges, staples, or torn paper to build a rich, dimensional cluster.

Curative Collective Team member Rox Boyce

Final Thought

Tags aren’t just an accessory — they are a storytelling device.

They hold words, memories, fragments, and feeling… and when layered with intention, they can carry the entire emotional tone of a page.

Ready to Create?

Click on the link below to head over to the shop and start exploring the full range of tags, journaling spots, and Luckyfindings designs in the Scrapping Clearly store and start building your own layered stories today. 

OMG! by Tracey B

 Good morning everyone and happy crafting Tuesday!

here's another take on this month's moodboard

I started with a 'waste not' page, covered it with some clear gesso then added some Liquitex Ink (Turquoise Deep blue and Raw sienna), coloured some fabric tags with gelato (Blueberry, Cotton Candy & Iced Chai).   Added some TCW Stencil Butter (Chocolate) through a stencil - which I then mostly covered with my photos- and sprinkled on some flock whilst still wet.

I added some Art Stones and Finnabair Micro beads (Copper) and some threads to finish off

TFL

cheers

Trace

“The Other Side of Consistency” - Curative Collective Team Member

There’s something incredibly powerful about a page that doesn’t just look beautiful—but speaks truth. This mixed media journal spread is a striking example of how art can visually represent discipline, growth, and the quiet strength it takes to keep showing up.

At the core of this piece is a bold and grounding quote: “Everything you want is waiting for you on the other side of consistency.”

This isn’t a soft or whimsical message—it’s direct, honest, and deeply motivating. It speaks to the reality that progress doesn’t come from inspiration alone, but from repetition, effort, and commitment over time.

The placement of the quote on the left-hand side gives it space to breathe. It feels intentional—like a guiding principle rather than decoration.

The colour palette is where this page truly comes alive. Rich blues, teals, and violets form the foundation, layered with bursts of orange, yellow, and magenta. These colours aren’t scattered—they’re concentrated and controlled, building intensity around the focal point.

The swirling brushwork creates a sense of motion and momentum, almost like energy being pulled inward. It feels active, alive, and purposeful—mirroring the idea of consistent effort building over time.

Focal Point & Expression

The portrait is undeniably the emotional anchor of the page. Positioned on the right, the face draws you in immediately. The eyes are intense, steady, and unwavering—they hold a quiet strength that perfectly aligns with the message of discipline and persistence.

Surrounding the face is a circular burst of colour, almost like a halo of motion. This framing technique not only emphasises the portrait but also symbolises cycles, repetition, and growth.

This page is a beautiful balance between expressive and controlled techniques:

• Layered Paint Application
  Loose, sweeping brush strokes create movement and depth without feeling chaotic.
• Ink Splatters
  Small black splatters add texture and energy, breaking up the smoothness of the paint.
• Subtle Pattern Work
  Hints of stencil or collage peek through the colour, adding interest without overwhelming the composition.
• Framed Edges
  Darkened, slightly distressed borders help contain the design and give the page a finished, grounded feel.

 Composition & Flow

The composition is simple but incredibly effective.

The right-hand side carries the visual weight with the portrait and colour, while the left remains open and minimal. This contrast creates balance and allows the viewer’s eye to move naturally across the page.The use of white space is especially important here—it provides clarity, focus, and a sense of calm against the intensity of the colour work.

 Symbolism & Interpretation

Every element in this piece contributes to a deeper meaning:

• The Circular Motion
  Represents repetition, routine, and the ongoing cycle of effort.
• The Direct Gaze
  Suggests self-awareness and accountability—staying focused on the bigger picture.
• The Colour Concentration
  Reflects energy being built over time, rather than scattered or wasted.
• The Open Space
  Symbolises clarity and direction—knowing where you’re going, even if the journey takes time.

Final Thoughts

This journal page is a reminder that creativity isn’t just about expression—it can also be about intention. It captures the idea that progress is built slowly, layer by layer, much like the techniques used within the artwork itself. There’s strength in the simplicity of the layout, and power in the message it carries. Because sometimes, the most meaningful art isn’t about what happens in a moment— it’s about what happens when you keep going.

Lisa

Xxxx

'Unfiltered Bliss' by Curated Collective Designer Emma Zappone

 Hello to you all 🤗

My share today is based on the April Palette Play.
I decided I was going to make it vintage rather than follow the initial beach feels this palette gives.

I just love the feel this canvas has.
It features one of the stunning images from the 'Lucky Findings Imagery' sheets called 'She will Fly'.
I did go with some of the techniques as well as the colours for this month.
In my layers I have added fabrics and fibers and used then in with the paper layers.
This added a soft and regal feel along with the many rub-ons that built my background.

Thanks for stopping by.
I look forward to seeing your take on this months Palette.
Catch you again soon.
Em xx

In the Wild by Tracey B

 Hi everyone

Another month and another moodboard to inspire us.

Here's my take

Products I've used include

Light & Fluffy modelling paste (my go to) and stencil

Dina Wakley Gloss spray Ocean

Stamps with Distress ink - Chipped Saphire

Stencil and distress ink - Pumice Stone

Stencil and Lunar Paste - Midnight Snack

Gause with Distress Mica Stain - Juniper Berry

Heidi Swapp stickers

TFL

cheers

Trace

 

Hippity Hop here are you Easter Cyber Crop Challenges

 

APRIL challenges

 Welcome to our APRIL 2026 Challenges!

Not long until Easter - you get these April challenges and also the Easter Cybercrop challenges - plenty of inspiration to keep you ignoring the housework to play at your craft desk!

APRIL CHALLENGES

Our APRIL Moodboard: Ocean Oracle

This visual mood board - be inspired by these colours, vibes and techniques.

ALL Papercraft projects are welcomed: Scrapbooking, to art journalling, to tags and cards. We wanna see it all! :)

Colours: Use shades of seafood, turquoise, navy and driftwood

Vibe: Salt air, beach combing, tides, waves and coastal magic

Technique: Acrylic washes, wave textures and fibres

April - Book of Me

Our "Book of me" continues with this month's prompts. Use it to document memories, record reflections, and express yourself creatively. This month we focus on safety, comfort & identity.

Weekly Inspo Prompts : Mini-works of art

Every Monday, we will release a unique inspo prompt. Create your very own....Mini works of art
You create ATC or Index size cards created for your enjoyment, not to be swapped or traded. By the end of 2026, you will have your own collection of 52 cards that incorporated the weekly colour, quote, theme or technique.

Check out this {link}, to see the current list of weekly inspo prompts.

SUBMISSION PROCESS

Participants must upload their completed projects into the APRIL Albums in the Scrapping Clearly Share and Inspire Facebook Group.

Please load your entries to the albums by the end of the month. Please note: Please edit your photo caption in Facebook to give us information about your project and inspiration.

Prize boxes and gift vouchers will be up for grabs at different times during the year, but mostly we hope you are here for inspiration not the prizes!

And for all your Mixed Media and Paper Craft needs, make sure you head to our website at: https://scrappingclearly.com.au/

Thank you,

Amanda

On behalf of the Scrapping Clearly team

“Go Where You Feel Most Alive”

Theme & Message

This creative piece speaks to freedom, intuition, and following what lights you up.

There’s a sense of movement, breath, and openness—as if the page itself is exhaling. The hummingbird becomes a guide— move toward joy, lightness, and energy.

A softer, nature-inspired palette creates a sense of calm vitality:

• Dominant tones:
  Teal, soft aqua, sage green
• Floral accents:
  Pink, magenta, yellow, violet
• Metallic warmth:
  Subtle gold accents add light and richness
• Neutrals:
  Whitewashed background with touches of black script. The overall effect is fresh, organic, and gently luminous.

Focal Elements

• Hummingbird
  The central symbol of energy, movement, and joy. Its wings suggest motion—capturing a fleeting, magical moment.
• Botanical Florals
  A vintage-inspired floral cluster that feels abundant and grounded—like nature in full bloom.
• Sentiment Strip
  Softly placed, not overpowering—allowing the message to feel like a whisper rather than a statement.

This spread uses restraint and softness in its layering:

• Whitewashed Base
  Creates space and breath—allowing elements to float rather than compete.
• Script Stamping & Mark Making
  Adds quiet texture and storytelling without overwhelming the composition.
• Botanical Collage
  Vintage florals bring familiarity and natural beauty.
• Paint Splatters (Black & Colour)
  Introduce energy and movement—echoing the hummingbird’s motion.
• Gold Accents
  Subtle highlights that catch the eye and add warmth.

Composition & Layout

• Two-Page Flow
  
• Left: grounded, floral, rooted
• Right: light, airy, in motion
• Visual Movement
  The eye travels from dense florals → across the centre → to the hummingbird in flight
• Negative Space
  Used intentionally to create calm and focus—this page breathes

Symbolism

• Hummingbird 
  Joy, resilience, and living in the present moment—seeking sweetness in life.
• Florals 
  Growth, abundance, and natural cycles—reminding us to bloom where we are.
• Gold 
  Light, value, and moments of magic—small but meaningful highlights.
• Open Space
  Freedom, possibility, and emotional clarity.

Final Artistic Insight

This piece is a beautiful example of less doing more. It trusts that not everything needs to be filled, it simply invites you to follow what feels alive.

Your vibe attracts your tribe

 Hello SC friends. Today I played once again with the wonderful LF 'quiet devotion' imagery. 

Started in a ABM 8x8 journal to create in. Used layers of paint, papers, infusions and various stencils from my stash. My focal image is where I get my inspiration from therefore Kylie's images are a perfect starting point. 

Stencil through my page the Lunar paste from Simon Hurley's 'lunar paste'

Fussy cut butterflies from the ATC 'steampunk fairies' and finished them with some glossy accents to give them some sturdiness.

Added some foliage die-cuts to fill the page to give it a botanical, natural earthy vibe.

A quote to complete this page for this month's mood board.

Hope this inspires you to get creating and make sure you post your creations on the SC socials.