Choosing the Right Journal for Your Creative Journey
The first step to starting your creative practice is finding the right journal. It might seem like a small decision, but the journal you choose can set the tone for your entire process. Do you want something practical and portable? Or are you drawn to a journal that feels like a work of art in itself? From simple spiral-bound notebooks to intricate handmade creations, each type has its own vibe, strengths, and uses. The good news? There’s no wrong choice—it’s all about finding what fits your style and inspires you to create. Let’s explore some options to help you get started!
When it comes to choosing a journal, the options are endless—and it all boils down to what feels right for you. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide:
Spiral-Bound Journals: Ideal for beginners or anyone who values practicality. These are lightweight, fold back easily, and are great for jotting down quick ideas, sketches, or experimenting on the go.
Signature-Bound Journals: With their sewn-in pages, these journals have a timeless, artisanal feel. They’re durable, perfect for mixed media projects, and often feature hardback covers if they contain multiple signatures. They bring a touch of elegance to your creative practice.
Junk Journals: Crafted from upcycled treasures like old book pages, envelopes, and fabric scraps, junk journals are all about character and charm. They’re perfect for unleashing creativity in an eco-friendly and whimsical way, where every page feels like its own little adventure.
Altered Journals: An opportunity to give an old book a second life, altered journals allow you to paint, collage, or write directly over the original pages. They’re wonderfully eco-conscious and offer a satisfying way to transform something forgotten into something extraordinary.
Finding Your Groove
The best way to find the right journal is to try a few different styles and see what works for you. Personally, I’ve learned the hard way that fancy, hardcover journals often sit unused on my shelf because I feel too intimidated to “ruin” their perfection. But journaling isn’t about perfection—it’s about exploring, experimenting, and making mistakes (lots of them!).
Another important factor? The paper. For simple writing or pen sketches, thinner paper (around 80 gsm) works just fine. But if you’re into painting, collaging, or layering materials, you’ll want sturdier pages—120 gsm or thicker, or even dedicated watercolor paper for heavier-duty projects.
Bonus Tip: Keep a Test Journal
Have a journal dedicated entirely to testing out supplies. Think of it as your creative scratchpad—a place to try out new markers, test paints, or wipe excess brush strokes. Over time, it will evolve into its own unique masterpiece and serve as a constant reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination.