Journaling Supplies
I often get asked about what sort of supplies I use for journaling. I’m a big fan of working with what I have, but if you are just getting started, or looking for some new ideas, I hope you find this list helpful. Full disclosure: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The Journal
I like to journal in used books because they are cheap/free, and I don’t feel as much pressure when working in something that I picked up on a library “free cart.” However, I know that medium isn’t for everyone, or sometimes you like a clean slate for a change. Here are some suggestions.
Bachmore Sketchpad 9X12" - I like that this is spiral bound. You will likely add layers to your pages, and your journal will start to bulge. You’d need to remove pages from a book with a bound spine, but the spiral spine can accommodate some bulging. This also has a bit of weight to the pages which will help them hold up to painting and gluing.
Bachmore Sketchpad 5.5 X 8.5" - a smaller version of the previous sketchpad.
Basics
Fiskars Non-Stick Scissors - Non-stick is important, so they won’t stick if you cut through anything that has already been glued.
PVA Glue - I’ve grown to prefer brushing on PVA glue over glue sticks. While a little messier, I find it to be more durable.
Elmer's Extra Strength Glue Sticks - Always easy to use
Making Marks
Paints
FolkArt Acrylic Paint Set - The sky is the limit when it comes to paints, but this is a great basic set from a reliable brand. I also like this set because it has a matte finish which is important, so your pages don’t stick together.
Paint Brushes - This set is affordable and has a good variety of brushes. You may find the need down the road for additional brushes to suit specific needs, but this will get you started.
Palette Knives - You can use these for spreading paint around for backgrounds, making painted papers, or applying modeling paste to create texture. However, you can also use an old gift card or your fingers in a pinch.
GenCrafts Watercolor Paint Palette - This is the watercolor set we have, and have enjoyed working with it.
Writing/Drawing
Sakura Pigma Micron Pen Set - Great for writing thoughts & drawing details in your journal.
Uni-Posca Paint Marker Pen Set - Okay, this was a tough one for me. I absolutely love these pens for adding details to a journal layout. If you are going to use paint pens, this is the only brand I would recommend. I’ve tried many others, and they were all awful, but these hold up. That said, they are pricey. We only own a small assortment. This is a basic set with fine points for detailing. I feel like any more than that, and you would do better to brush on acrylic paint, which is more economical.
Detail Paint Brushes - If buying a giant set of Posca pens isn’t in your budget, then I recommend investing in a set of detail brushes like these, and using whatever acrylic paints you already have on hand. It will open you up to a much greater selection of colors, and is a more budget-friendly option.
Monoprinting
Creating monoprints with a gel press is a fun way to make dynamic journal backgrounds.
Gel Press Gel Printing Plate 8"x10" - For larger layouts
Gel Press Gel Printing Plate 5"x7" - I tend to work in small books, so I use this size the most.
Brayer - For applying paint to your gel press
Stenciling
36 Piece Geometric Stencils - This is a nice variety pack of stencils at an affordable price. These are great to use with a gel press or on their own. Depending on how big your journal is, this set would be good for backgrounds if you select the 7.87 x 7.87 inch size or opt for the smaller 5 x 5 inch set if you just want to use them for a little embellishing.
Floral Stencils - As with the geometric set, you can opt for the larger size if you would like to use them for backgrounds, or go for the smaller 5.1 x 5.1 inch size if you just want to use them for accents and embellishments.
Stamping
I’m not going to make any specific recommendations here about stamps because there are just so many, and everyone’s tastes are different. Stamps can also be really expensive. I try to pick them up at garage sales and flea markets on the cheap. However, you can make your own for more unique designs.
Carving Knife Set - You can buy stamp carving sets that include the knives and the linoleum, but they tend to come with cheaper knives, as indicated in a lot of the reviews. I would buy the knives and linoleum separately. This set is made of carbon steel and can even carve wood.
4" x 6" Carving Blocks - This is a little bit of an investment, but you’ll be able to make a ton of stamps. Given the hefty price of stamps, it works out to being a really good deal in the long run.
StazOn Multi-Surface Inkpad, Jet Black
StazOn Pigment Ink Pad-Snowflake
Collage
Collage Sheets - You’ve come to the right place. Explore our huge library of free printable collage sheets. Print them at home, or have them printed at your local office store.
Sticker Paper - There are tons of stickers you can buy for journaling, or you can make your own. Print images on this paper, cut out and stick.
Miscellaneous
Vencink Bone Folder - For creasing folds and smoothing down papers you’ve just glued. This one is made of real bone, or here is a plastic alternative: Fiskars Plastic "Bone" Folder.