I’ve always believed that the journal you choose to start a new journaling practice is a huge factor when it comes to journaling with intention.
There’s something wonderful about having a journal that is just right for your needs.
But finding that perfect journal? That's where it can get a little tricky. Here are some tips that can help you find the most suitable home for your creative practice.
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Consider the Size
Let’s start with size. Do you like to jot down quick notes or are you someone who writes entire essays? Or do you not like writing at all? A small journal can be easily tucked into your bag for active journaling.
If you’re like me, someone who enjoys cutting and pasting imagery, ephemera, and writing down the occasional paragraph, then a sturdier journal might be more of your speed. I have multiple journals I work with, and my favorite journal of them all is a hardcover A5 dotted journal from this brand.
Feel Into the Paper Quality
Paper quality is more important than you might think, specially when you are heading in the direction of art journaling and adding mixed media elements to your practice.
The texture, thickness, and overall feel of the paper can completely change your journaling experience.
Do you love the feel of smooth, creamy paper under your pen? Or maybe you’re into more textured paper that gives a bit of resistance and a grainy feel as you write.
Don’t forget to consider the thickness—you probably don't want your writing to bleed through to the other side! It’s all about finding that sweet spot that makes your experience feel just right.
When you're shopping for journals you may see the letters GSM on the packaging which range from 50 to 200+. This stands for grams per square meter, and it’s a measurement and indicator of the paper’s thickness or weight.
The higher the number, the thicker the paper is and can handle more materials. I find 120 - 160 GSM to be a happy medium for most people new to journaling.
Decide on the Style
Then there’s the style of the journal itself.
Are you a fan of the classic bound notebook? Or do you prefer the flexibility of a spiral-bound journal, where you can fold it over? And if you’re someone who likes to keep things super organized, a binder-style journal might be the right one for you. You can add, remove, or rearrange pages as you see fit, making it completely your own.
Then there are premade journals available on the market as well. These are a great starting point for when you are someone who has a difficult time when faced with a blank page.
Still Can't Find the Right Journal? Then Make Your Own!
What if you can’t find the perfect journal that ticks all your boxes? Well, why not make one yourself?
It might sound hard at first, but there’s a certain satisfaction in creating something that’s uniquely yours!
Whether it’s adding decorative papers and choosing the exact type of paper you love or binding the pages in a way that feels personal to you, making your own journal can be a deeply rewarding experience.
If you’re curious about how to get started, I highly recommend checking out some DIY journaling channels on YouTube. You’d be surprised at how creative you can get with a few simple materials.
Happy Journal Picking!
In the end, the best journal is the one that excites you, the one that makes you want to open it up and start filling it out with your own flavor. It should feel like an extension of you—your thoughts, your creativity, your personality.
So take your time, explore your options, and don’t settle for anything less than a journal that feels just right!
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