our 10 journaling essentials

By now you know journals are one of our most favorite things. We both grew up writing out our lives, and we even built our friendship over journaling. Years of practice have helped us refine our personal styles of both the art and written aspects, and we love sharing our tips and ideas with anyone who will listen. Whether you're a seasoned writer or newbie journaler, hopefully this post sparks an idea or two. There's nothing that makes us happier (seriously!) than hearing someone say they dusted off their diary and started writing again. Keep reading for our 10 journaling essentials!

Washi tape is versatile--use it for everything from a page border to labels for pictures. You can find washi tape on Etsy, at craft stores, or even Walmart and Target.

We love our instax cameras, but any photos will work. They'll provide a great snapshot into that moment of your life paired with your writing. And don't forget the scissors up there in the left corner--keep them close. We're always needing them to cut washi tape and magazine pictures.

You had a collage phase in your teen years too, right? Actually, I guess I'm not fully out of that phase. Old magazines are great for accent illustrations/phrases or collages. Harley and I have created many collages in our journals.

You probably won't have access to new, interesting business cards every day, but definitely grab them anytime you visit somewhere new. I took one from each store and restaurant Harley and I went to when I was in Chicago, and they made a fun page in my journal.

Again, we like these for collages and other illustrative purposes. The Anthropologie catalog pages create magical backgrounds. Some of our other favorites: Free People and J. Crew.

I'm sure you've heard it before, but Pilot G-2 pens are our favorite. We like the .35 - .5 tips best.

If you're not attaching scrappy stuff with washi tape, we suggest photo splits. They're double sided and, therefore, inconspicuous.

Project Life cards can add a lovely element to art journal pages, but also notice scrappy-type items in little shops, in your mom's craft room, or on the street. I found an old playing card on the road in Chicago and used it on a journal page. I've also picked up dropped shopping lists in parking lots before. You can find gems everywhere!

1// pens

2// business cards

3// scissors

4// catalogs

5// pictures

6// paper scarps

7// magazines

8// photo splits

9// washi tape

10// cards

What are your journaling essentials? Happy Tuesday! 

xoxo, h&j