How to Create An Easy Art Journal
Step-by-Step Guide with Free Printable
One of my favorite things to create is art journals. A big thing that I stress during my annual masterclass - is that the art of creating your journal and creating inside your journal are two different hobbies! And it’s perfectly okay to enjoy one more than the other. I love both, but creating the journal probably takes the lead if I’m being honest.
Art journals come in so many different forms. Different levels of complexity or innovation. Each and every art journal is so unique! For my BB Journals I typically go pretty full out - but some of my favorites are simply-made, quick journals. I thought it would be fun to show you how to make an easy little journal (most likely with supplies you already have on hand) that you can start creating in right away! (Or give away as a one-of-a-kind special gift!)
In this tutorial, I show you how to make a fun, little journal using a digital download for the cover! I’m using a fun black + white one with art marks that I sent out to my email subscribers this month.
Not on my email list yet? Download the freebie here:
This journal could be made with any of your favorite papers for the cover, it doesn’t have to be a printable! (That’s just an easy, quick way to get started if you feel stuck.) Do you have a special piece of paper that you’ve been saving for just the right occasion? This is a fun way to showcase it!
It’s time to grab your supplies and get started! The main things you’ll need are a variety of papers (or just white if you want a blank slate) and some thread to bind it all together! Scroll down for a full list of supplies used.
Look around your house to find a variety of papers, here are some ideas to get you thinking:
White, Black, or Kraft Paper
Construction Paper
Music Sheets
Notebook or Graph Paper
Dictionary Pages
Vintage Books
Transparent - Vellum, Deli, or Tracing Paper
Junk Mail/Security Envelopes
Used Calendars or Throwaway Documents
Packaging or Receipts
Old Manuals
Manilla Folders
Handmade papers (with artwork already on them) - there are no rules that say all of your papers have to be “plain” to start out!
I can’t wait to see your little journals and what you use them for! Tag me on Instagram so I can see! @bbhenry_art
xx Brooke
Supplies Used:
Papers:
Vintage Papers, Kraft Paper Pad, White Sulphite Paper, Black Paper, Large Grid Paper 1 inch, Vellum
Mark Making Utensils:
Blackwing Pencil, Black China Marker, White Correction Pen
Book Binding Tools:
Bone Folder, Book Binding Cradle, Jumbo Paper Clips,
Awl, Metal Ruler, Embroidery Thread, Thread Wax, Scissors
Miscellaneous:
Black Safety Pins, Sari Ribbon, Fabric Scraps
