Many crafters enjoy collecting items to use in projects. Items can include papers, jewelry findings, charms, modeling supplies, paints and so much more. These items can be collected from second hand stores, garage sales, and estate sales. Or perhaps they were picked up from the clearance section at a box store. These collected items may have been bought for use for a future project that you will get to “someday”. Does that sound like you? Today we are going to discuss three fun projects that you can use to bust your stash.

Smash Journal

Have you ever heard of a smash journal? You don't need to purchase any special tools or supplies. Use what you have on hand. This is a good project for those of us that like to collect notebooks and journals. It could be an old sketchbook or college ruled notebook. If you want to get crazy with paints, then a sketchbook with thicker paper would work better. 

Think of a smash journal as freeform creativity. In many projects such as quilting, the focus is on measuring and making sure everything is aligned perfectly. Your journal doesn't have to be perfect, in fact it is very much the opposite. You don't need a plan or pattern. Be messy! Let those creative juices flow! Rip and tear the pages. Sew or tape them back together. Splash paint ink and pain all over the pages. Decoupage papers, magazines, and newspapers across your journal. Thes most important thing is to have fun and try to let go of perfection and let creativity flow.

Bookmarks 

Bookmarks are a fun way to bust your crafty stash. They are simple, easy projects to do if you only have a few moments. They also make great gifts. This is another good way to address your paper scraps. Try collaging different papers or fabrics together. A bookmark can also be made out of fabric scraps if you don't have much paper on hand. You can also embroider on your fabric bookmark to use your stash of threads.

Cards

Making card fronts is very similar to making bookmarks. Try a scrappy collage of papers and dimensional elements for the card front. Making this type of card font will help build up a collection of general themed cards for a variety of occasions. If an event  sneaks up on you and you don't have time to make something, you will have a few ready to go at a moment's notice.