{"id":5278,"date":"2023-03-30T13:15:55","date_gmt":"2023-03-30T12:15:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/?p=5278"},"modified":"2023-03-30T13:15:55","modified_gmt":"2023-03-30T12:15:55","slug":"art-journaling-a-beginners-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/writing\/diaries-journals\/art-journaling-a-beginners-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Art journaling: A beginner\u2019s guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"An<\/p>\n

Art journaling is a creative form of self-expression that combines elements of writing, drawing and mixed media art.<\/p>\n

The unique introspective practice allows you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences in a visual and tangible way.<\/p>\n

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner, art journaling can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and creative expression.<\/p>\n

So, let’s dive in and explore the world of art journaling \u2014 from what an art journal is to how to choose one and what you can do within its pages.<\/p>\n

What is an art journal?<\/h2>\n

An art journal is a visual diary \u2014 a place to gather your thoughts and express yourself.<\/p>\n

There are no complex rules on what you should and shouldn’t include in an art journal, as it’s entirely up to you.<\/p>\n

You can purchase a journal<\/a> to use as an art journal, repurpose an old book, or make one yourself by binding pages together.<\/p>\n

Whichever journal type you choose, you’ll be personalising its pages soon enough.<\/p>\n

Why use an art journal?<\/h2>\n

You may be wondering why people enjoy art journaling.<\/p>\n

Using an art journal delivers plenty of benefits \u2014 hence its increasing appeal to many people.<\/p>\n

Self-care<\/h3>\n

Taking time for yourself to engage in a creative activity can be a form of self-care that boosts your mood and enhances your overall well-being.<\/p>\n

Self-reflection<\/h3>\n

By exploring your thoughts and emotions through art and writing, you can better understand yourself and your experiences.<\/p>\n

Stress relief<\/h3>\n

Art journaling can be a calming and meditative practice that helps to reduce stress and anxiety.<\/p>\n

Learn new skills<\/h3>\n

Through exploration and experimentation, people who keep an art journal develop their art skills, learn new techniques, and hone their individual style.<\/p>\n

Enjoy a safe space<\/h3>\n

The pressure is off when art journaling as it’s a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and artistic flair.<\/p>\n

There’s no right or wrong way to art journal, so embrace imperfections and let your creativity flow and flourish.<\/p>\n

\"An

Using an art journal can be fun and therapeutic<\/p><\/div>\n

How to choose an art journal<\/h2>\n

When selecting a journal to use as an art journal, consider its size, paper, and binding.<\/p>\n

Size<\/h3>\n

There are several points to consider regarding the size of your art journal.<\/p>\n

Firstly, what book size best suits the type of art you expect to create? Will a smaller book suffice, or do you need an A4 journal to fit everything in?<\/p>\n

Think about when you’ll be using your journal, too \u2014 will you be at home, or does your journal need to be small enough to be carried around? Remember that the larger the journal, the heavier it will be.<\/p>\n

If you’re new to art journaling, we\u2019d recommend an A5 journal, as it’s not too intimidating for beginners.<\/p>\n

Paper<\/h3>\n

Your paper choice depends on the art you\u2019ll be creating.<\/p>\n

An art journal with standard pages will be fine if you primarily draw with pens<\/a> and pencils<\/a>.<\/p>\n

However, if you plan on using wet media (paints and inks), you’ll need thicker pages, or your journal will get ruined.<\/p>\n

Suppose you already have a journal with thin pages but wish to use wet media. In that case, there are methods for making the paper sturdier.<\/p>\n

Consider glueing two pages together or preparing the pages you plan to use with a coat of gesso primer.<\/p>\n

Binding<\/h3>\n

Your art journal’s binding is down to personal preference.<\/p>\n

Some art journal users prefer a stitched journal because it\u2019s more robust and enables them to create art across a two-page spread.<\/p>\n

Others enjoy the benefits of a spiral-bound journal \u2014 each page is separate and can be removed and worked on individually.<\/p>\n

Supplies for art journaling<\/h2>\n

Once you\u2019ve chosen a journal, you’ll want to stock up on art supplies<\/a>,<\/u> so you have everything you need to hand.<\/p>\n

Useful art supplies for art journaling include:<\/p>\n