If you enjoy scrapbooking, journalling or paper crafts, you have probably seen the word ephemera. It sounds rather mysterious, but its meaning is actually very simple.
Ephemera describes everyday paper items that were originally created to be used for a short time and then discarded. Tickets, postcards, labels, receipts, stamps and handwritten notes are all examples.
Today, these little paper pieces are collected and used to decorate journals, scrapbook pages, cards and collages.
Why is it called ephemera?
The word ephemeral means something that lasts for only a short time.
Most ephemera was never designed to be saved. A bus ticket helped somebody complete a journey. A seed packet contained information about planting flowers. A postcard carried a message from one person to another.
Once these objects have served their purpose, they would usually be thrown away. When we choose to keep them, however, they can become small reminders of particular places, people and experiences.
Examples of ephemera
Ephemera can be old, new, found or specially printed for crafting. Common examples include:
- Postcards
- Letters and envelopes
- Postage stamps
- Train, bus and theatre tickets
- Maps
- Botanical illustrations
- Seed packets
- Product labels
- Old photographs
- Sheet music
- Book pages
- Receipts
- Tags
- Handwritten lists
- Decorative paper scraps
Fabric, ribbon, lace, pressed leaves and flowers are also often included in ephemera collections, even though they are not technically paper items.
What is craft ephemera?
Craft ephemera is created specifically for journalling, scrapbooking and collage.
It might include miniature tags, faux postage stamps, floral illustrations, decorative tickets, labels, pockets and small cards. These pieces are often inspired by genuine historical paper items but are printed on new paper, making them easier to cut, arrange and glue into a project.
Craft ephemera can also be modern and colourful. It does not have to look old or traditionally “vintage.” Bright flowers, contemporary lettering and cheerful patterns can all make wonderful ephemera.
How do you use ephemera in a journal?
There is no correct way to use ephemera. It is all about arranging paper pieces in a way that feels pleasing or meaningful to you.
Try choosing one main piece, such as a botanical illustration, and placing it on your journal page. Add a smaller label, a stamp or a piece of patterned paper beside it. You can then include a handwritten memory, quotation or date.
You could also:
- Make a pocket to hold a tiny note
- Create a collage around a photograph
- Add a ticket from a memorable day
- Use a flower illustration beside a nature-journal entry
- Layer torn paper beneath your writing
- Turn a decorative tag into a bookmark
- Decorate an envelope or handwritten letter
- Make a page inspired by a season, colour or flower
Your page does not need to look perfect. Uneven edges, overlapping papers and handwritten words are all part of its character.
How to start collecting ephemera
Begin by paying attention to the small paper items you usually throw away.
Keep a box, folder or large envelope for anything that interests you. Save pretty packaging, unusual stamps, exhibition tickets, garden-centre labels and postcards from friends.
When you go on a day trip or nature walk, look for one or two small things that will help you remember it. This could be a map, café card, ticket or fallen leaf. Always leave living flowers growing unless you have permission to pick them.
You can organise your collection by colour, theme or type—or simply enjoy keeping everything together in one wonderfully mixed box.
Why do people love ephemera?
Ephemera helps us notice the beauty in ordinary things.
A small scrap of paper can bring back the memory of a journey, a conversation or an afternoon spent somewhere lovely. It gives us a physical connection to moments that might otherwise be forgotten.
Working with ephemera is also a calming way to spend time away from a screen. Cutting, arranging, layering and writing allow us to be creative without needing specialist skills or expensive equipment.
You do not have to consider yourself an artist. You only need a few paper pieces, a glue stick and the freedom to experiment.
Beautiful paper through your letterbox
The Libby & Alice Mail Club celebrates flowers, paper and the quiet pleasure of making something by hand.
Each month, members receive a themed envelope from England filled with botanical paper treasures, creative inspiration and beautiful pieces to use in journals, scrapbooks and other paper projects.
It is a little invitation to pause, step away from the screen and turn ordinary paper into something worth keeping.
Would you like beautiful floral ephemera delivered through your letterbox? Discover the Libby & Alice Mail Club and join us for a new creative theme each month.
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