A travelling journal is a shared journal that makes its way from one person to another through the post. Each participant adds something of their own before sending it on, gradually filling its pages with different handwriting, stories, artwork and glimpses of everyday life.
By the time it returns to its owner, it holds a collection of contributions from the women who have welcomed it into their homes. Part journal, part keepsake, it’s a lovely way to create something together—even when we live far apart.
How Do Travelling Journals Work?
Each journal begins with an organiser or owner, a group of participants and a few clear guidelines.
- The journey begins. The owner chooses a journal, introduces its theme and includes instructions about contributions and posting.
- You receive the journal. Take some time to enjoy the pages already completed and get a feel for its story.
- You add your contribution. Fill your allocated pages with writing, photographs, drawings, collage or a mixture of whatever suits the theme.
- You send it onwards. Package it securely and post it to the next participant within the agreed timeframe.
- It returns home. Once everyone has contributed, the journal goes back to its owner as a shared keepsake.
Some groups pass one journal around; others have several travelling at once, with each participant starting a journal that will eventually return to them.
For any journal organised through Aussie Sisterhood, the participation details will explain the theme, page allowance, timeframe, postage arrangements and where to send it next.
What Can You Add?
Your pages don’t need to look like anyone else’s. You might include:
- A letter introducing yourself.
- A story, memory or reflection.
- Photographs or postcards from your town.
- Drawings, paintings or paper collage.
- Favourite recipes, poems or quotations.
- Small pockets holding notes or paper treasures.
- A few words about what the theme means to you.
Keep additions reasonably flat and securely attached so the journal can travel safely and remain easy to close. Remember that other participants will read your pages, so share only what you’re comfortable including.
Possible Journal Themes
A theme offers a starting point while leaving room for everyone’s personality. Some theme ideas include:
The Haunted House
True Crime
Under the Sea
Midnight in the Garden
The Secret Library
Witch’s Apothecary
The Enchanted Forest
A Cabinet of Curiosities
Cottage Kitchen
The Art of Being Brave
Rainy Day Comforts
Wild Women
Woodland Creatures
The Travelling Carnival
The Memory Box
Vacation Mode
Mermaid Magic
My Dream Life
Circus Spectacular
Book Lover’s Paradise
The Art Studio
All Things 90s
The Perfect Party
Christmas Cheer
New Year, New Me
Summer Fun
Autumn Colours
Winter Warmers
Spring Awakening
Under the Big Top
Country Living
Museum Day
True Crime
Mysteries and Clues
Around the campfire
Christmas
Halloween
Everyone Has Something to Contribute
You don’t need to be an artist or an experienced journal maker to take part. A handwritten story is just as welcome as a decorated spread.
The pleasure of a travelling journal is discovering the person behind each contribution. Different styles belong together here. Each page adds another voice, another perspective and another small connection to the journal’s journey.
How to get started
Wanting to start sending and receiving happy mail of your own? Join our Facebook community!