My previous experience as a Behavior Specialist taught me that the use of a journal to release the torrent of internal emotions was vital to happiness, clarity, accountability, and understanding. Whether you write in a notebook or you use multiple forms of media to decorate your pages the importance is to just get it done.

BENEFITS OF JOURNALING:

Valuable Insight

Celebrate Your Possibilities

Journal Your Gratitude

Don’t trash it; try something else

SUPPLIES:

What I love about art journals is that there is no right or wrong. It is a reflection of what is inside and anything goes! I like to use what I have on hand and it makes for a great way to use up scraps or left over bits from other projects. The following is NOT an exhaustive list–it is what I like to use.

Paper:

You can use spiral bound notebook if you are sticking to pen/pencils. You can use markers and other things like glue but you have to be okay with bleed through and wrinkling. Some people like the look; some don’t. Use gesso to “strengthen” the paper first.

Strathmore Products–I have to buy what is available in this smallish city and I like this brand. Since I like to use paints and watercolor I prefer the 140 lb weight paper (90 lb is slightly cheaper)–it really handles the layers of paint, gesso, gel medium, papers and what ever else I through at it. You can use craft store coupons to purchase them. I buy the 11X15 size and cut the sheet into 4. mixed media paper   watercolor paper (what I tend to use) The point is to use what ever you want and to take advantage of old movie stubs, magazines, newspapers or anything you have lying around to add them to your page.

Markers:

Sharpie: I like that you can thick and fine tip permanent markers. I use these for writing in the journal after I have painted it or to add other details/doodles.

Pigma Micron Pens: These are great on fabric and for writing in your journal.

gel rolls or anything with a bit of shimmer: I use these to highlight hair or add flecks of glimmer in tiny detail.

I have one nice pen that I use for my journals. It did not cost a lot but I knew that I was purchasing it for that reason so it helps with the feeling and anticipation when I sit down to journal.

Glues:

Gel Medium:  I really like this product! Use your coupon for the local craft store! I spread it with my finger or with an old brush (don’t use your good ones!!) The awesome thing about gel medium is that its strength allows for adding things to your pages like buttons, keys, and if you mix in your paint then you get a great effect.

glue sticks: these are great for simple and lightweight things to add. I have not found a brand that I just love so if you do let me know.

Mod Podge: When I don’t use my gel medium I use this fabulous stuff.

GETTING STARTED!!

If you are like me and many others then the first blank page can be intimidating. Just start. The great thing about journals is that you can cover up what you don’t like with a piece of paper, a drawing, paint, or if you must then you can always rip out the page.

Remember, the importance of using a journal is to have fun, to release pent-up emotions/thoughts, to clarify goals, to illustrate your gratitude, and what ever else you need to unload. Write about your day, your family, your class, your new technique, your goals for your self or your creative business–the prompts are limitless!

Happy Journaling!