Welcome back to another edition of Tracy’s Tool Box!
I love this part of our creative journey together where I get to answer your most-asked questions. One question that comes up time and time again is:
“What is your favorite art journal, and what do you recommend for someone just starting out?
This is a tough one because honestly… I’m an equal-opportunity journal lover. Here are my shelves of completed art journals…..
Over the years, I’ve collected (and used!) so many different art journals—big, small, fancy, handmade, budget-friendly—you name it. I truly believe the best journal is the one you’ll actually use. But let’s break it down and talk about some of the things I consider when choosing the right journal for the job.
1. Let’s Talk Size (Sorry Mom 😅)
Yes… size matters! Especially when you’re just starting out.
If you’re new to art journaling, I highly recommend starting small. A smaller surface means less intimidating white space, which gives you the freedom to explore without feeling overwhelmed. I still remember the little watercolor journal I used during one summer when I was just beginning. I kept it in a bag with my (very cheap!) watercolors and supplies—and it helped me build up the confidence I needed to keep going. Another fun thing about smaller journals are they fit in your bag and purse and are great for those long car pool lines, doctor waiting rooms and the DMV. Trust me you, you will become far more patient waiting.
My first watercolor journal that I used one summer where I just dared myself to paint and not worry about doing it “wrong”. It fit in my bag and I carried it around all summer.
2. Budget-Friendly is OKAY
I’ve always been mindful of my art budget. The good news? You don’t need expensive materials to get started.
Look for a journal that fits your price range. And yes—you can use both sides of the paper! I used to do that all the time. These days, I only work on one side (more on that in a future post), but when you’re starting out, make that paper work for you.
3. Paper Type Matters
Here’s my rule of thumb:
- Mixed media paper is good and versatile.
- Watercolor paper is ideal if you’re mainly using watercolors.
You can use watercolors on mixed media paper, and you can use acrylics on watercolor paper—so don’t overthink it. Just know that watercolor paper usually handles water and pigment better (and yes, it costs more). As my dad always says:
“Use the right tool for the right job.”
4. Paper Color
White, black, tan—there’s no wrong answer!
I love a crisp white page because it makes my backgrounds pop. But I also keep black journals on hand when I want to switch things up and play with contrast. Choose whatever sparks your curiosity.
5. Binding Style
Spiral, sewn, ring-bound, removable pages—it’s all about personal preference.
Here’s what I go for:
- Spiral-bound is my everyday go-to.
- Sewn binding is perfect when I want to work across a full spread without that metal spiral breaking up the design.
- Binder rings are amazing when I’m creating small handmade tag journals. I love how easy they are to flip through—and I can always add more pages!
One thing I’ve let go of? The need for all my journals to “match” on the shelf. I used to want everything uniform and tidy, but now I love seeing all the different shapes, sizes, and textures. It reminds me how far I’ve come and how much fun I’ve had creating.
6. Going Big? Go For It!
Sometimes I go as large as 11″ x 14″—especially if I’m using a journal page to inspire a larger canvas piece. Don’t be afraid to scale up when the mood strikes!
Whatever journal you choose, I hope it becomes a home for your creativity. And if you’re looking for a place to start, I’ve got art journals in my shop that I personally use and love. I just restocked them—and I’d be thrilled to help you find one that works for your creative heart.
Until next time, keep playing, keep exploring, and remember: the best journal is the one that lets YOU be YOU.
Creatively Yours,
Tracy 💕