Starting a journal can be a transformative experience, whether you’re looking to organize your day, set goals, track habits, or simply find a creative outlet. The right supplies can make the process enjoyable and keep you motivated. If you’re just beginning your journaling journey, here are ten essential supplies every beginner should consider to create a meaningful, personalized journal.
1. Quality Journal or Notebook
The foundation of any journaling setup is a good-quality journal. Choose a notebook with durable binding and thick pages to prevent ink from bleeding through. For beginners, notebooks with pre-dotted pages can be especially helpful, as they provide structure without the rigidity of lined or grid paper. Some popular brands known for their quality and durability are Leuchtturm1917, Moleskine, and Scribbles That Matter.
- Tip: Consider the size and portability of your journal. A smaller notebook is convenient for carrying, while a larger one gives you more room for creativity.
2. Fine-Tip Pens for Precision Writing
A fine-tip pen is essential for clear, detailed writing. Fine-tip pens allow you to create clean, crisp lines, which are perfect for writing entries, making to-do lists, or drawing tiny details. Some of the best pens for beginners include Sakura Pigma Micron and Staedtler Triplus Fineliner. These pens are known for their smooth flow, non-smudging ink, and long-lasting quality.
- Tip: Choose pens with archival-quality ink to prevent fading over time, especially if you want to keep your journal for years.
3. Highlighters for Emphasis
Highlighters are excellent for adding emphasis to important notes, dates, or headings. A good set of pastel highlighters, like Mildliners by Zebra, provides a soft, subtle way to add color without overpowering your page. Highlighters can also be used to color-code different sections of your journal.
- Tip: Test highlighters on a spare page to ensure they don’t bleed through. Light colors typically work better on thin journal pages.
4. Washi Tape for Creative Touches
Washi tape is a decorative masking tape often used to add style and color to journals. It’s available in various designs, from simple patterns to intricate illustrations. Use washi tape to create borders, mark sections, or simply add a pop of color to your entries. Popular options include MT Masking Tape and Scotch Expressions Washi Tape.
- Tip: Washi tape is removable, making it perfect for rearranging pages or creating temporary notes without damaging your journal.
5. Ruler for Neat Lines and Grids
A ruler is a must-have if you like structured layouts or grid-based designs. It allows you to draw clean lines and create well-organized sections, which are especially useful for habit trackers and monthly calendars. Choose a transparent ruler so you can see exactly where you’re marking.
- Tip: Consider a metal ruler for durability and straighter lines, as plastic rulers can sometimes warp or break.
6. Stickers to Add Personality
Stickers are a simple way to personalize your journal and bring life to your entries. From motivational quotes to seasonal icons, stickers come in endless designs to match your style. They’re perfect for highlighting special events, adding fun elements, or even creating themed pages. Look for packs with a mix of icons, quotes, and illustrations that suit your journaling goals.
- Tip: Opt for stickers that are easy to remove if you’re experimenting with different layouts or themes.
7. Brush Pens for Calligraphy and Headers
Brush pens are ideal for creating beautiful headings, calligraphy, or adding bold touches. They’re beginner-friendly and come in various sizes and colors. Brands like Tombow Dual Brush Pens and Pentel Fude Brush Pens are popular choices. The soft, flexible brush tip allows you to create both thick and thin lines, perfect for creative designs.
- Tip: Start with a small set of basic colors, and expand your collection as you become more comfortable with brush pen techniques.
8. Sticky Notes for Temporary Reminders
Sticky notes provide a great solution for adding temporary notes or reminders without altering your journal layout. They come in different sizes and colors, so you can use them for lists, reminders, or even as quick motivational notes to yourself. Post-it notes are a classic, reliable option, but there are many variations available to suit your style.
- Tip: Use sticky notes to test out new layouts or ideas before committing to them on your actual journal page.
9. Stencils for Shapes and Icons
For beginners who want to create neat shapes, icons, or decorative elements without freehand drawing, stencils are a great tool. They make it easy to create consistent designs like boxes, arrows, and even more intricate shapes, making your journal look organized and visually appealing. Check out stencils specifically made for journaling, which often include common icons like to-do boxes and banners.
- Tip: Metal or plastic stencils are durable and easy to use repeatedly without wearing out.
10. Colored Pencils for Gentle, Non-Bleeding Color
Colored pencils offer a way to add soft, non-bleeding color to your journal pages. They’re perfect for shading, highlighting, or creating subtle backgrounds for sections. Unlike markers, colored pencils don’t bleed through pages, making them ideal for thinner paper. Brands like Prismacolor and Crayola offer a range of colors that are smooth and vibrant.
- Tip: Consider using colored pencils to mark important events or notes in a way that doesn’t overpower the page.
Conclusion
Starting a journal is an exciting journey, and having the right supplies can make it an enjoyable, creative, and rewarding experience. From high-quality pens and journals to decorative stickers and washi tape, these essential items are all you need to begin crafting a journal that reflects your unique style and goals. With these supplies at your fingertips, you’re all set to create entries that help you stay organized, express yourself, and enjoy the art of journaling.
