What is a Circle Journal?
A circle journal is a scrapbooking album that is passed usually through the mail from person to person. The album usually has a theme and each member scrapbooks a page or 2-page layout on that theme before passing it on to the next member. In most cases, there are as many albums as circle journal members, each rotating from member to member before returning back to its originator. A circle journal is rather like a round robin for scrapbookers.
A circle journal usually starts with the originator or owner, who decorates the cover and prepares the title page and instruction page for the members. Sometimes the journal includes a sign in page for the members which becomes like a table of contents later. The owner of that circle journal usually prepares a layout based on the theme not only to begin the journal but as an example of the theme. Most circle journals, however, encourage the members to interpret the theme as it inspires them. That is part of the fun of a circle journal, seeing what each member creates for the theme.
To begin a circle journal, first select a theme. Here are a few examples of circle journal themes:
Favorite Quotes
Family Recipes
Words to Live By
Favorite Colors
A Circle of Friends
Tips and Techniques
Be sure everyone understands the commitment of time and money involved with the circle journal. Have a schedule for when the journal should be moved to the next member. If several journals are being circled, have one member be in charge of coordinating the time. Will everyone get 2 weeks to complete their page, a month? Remember when choosing a book that it will be mailed several times. Choose a sturdy book that can hold up to lots of handling.
Once the circle journal has circled to all the members, it will come back to the owner. She will have a keepsake album that reflects the differing scrapbook styles of her friends.
