In the world of stationery enthusiasts and organization fanatics, the bullet journal has become a beloved tool for managing schedules, setting goals, and tracking habits. With its customizable nature and creative possibilities, it’s no wonder that so many people have jumped on the bullet journal bandwagon. However, if you’re just starting out with your own bullet journal, you may be wondering what supplies are essential to get you started on your journaling journey. In this post, we’ll break down the must-have supplies for starting a bullet journal.
1. Notebook
The first and most important supply you’ll need for your bullet journal is a good quality notebook. Many bullet journal enthusiasts opt for a dotted or grid layout, as these provide guidance for creating neat layouts and designs while still allowing for plenty of freedom and creativity. There are many popular brands of notebooks that are specifically designed for bullet journaling, such as the Leuchtturm1917 or the Moleskine dotted notebooks. Ultimately, the choice of notebook comes down to personal preference, so feel free to experiment and find the one that works best for you.
2. Pens
Another essential supply for starting a bullet journal is a set of good-quality pens. Whether you prefer fine-point markers, brush pens, or gel pens, having a variety of colors and styles will allow you to create visually appealing layouts and designs in your journal. Some popular pens among bullet journal enthusiasts include the Tombow Dual Brush Pens, the Staedtler Triplus Fineliner Pens, and the Sakura Pigma Micron Pens. Experiment with different pens to see which ones work best for your style of writing and drawing.
3. Ruler
A ruler may seem like a simple tool, but it can make a big difference in creating neat and organized layouts in your bullet journal. Whether you’re drawing lines for to-do lists, creating grids for habit trackers, or outlining boxes for goal setting, a ruler will help you achieve clean and precise lines. A transparent ruler is especially useful for bullet journaling, as it allows you to see exactly where you’re drawing and ensures that your layouts are symmetrical and cohesive.
4. Washi Tape
Washi tape is a decorative adhesive tape that comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, making it the perfect tool for adding pops of color and personality to your bullet journal. Whether you use it to border pages, create headers, or highlight important sections, washi tape can help you customize your journal and make it uniquely yours. You can find washi tape in craft stores, stationery shops, and online stores, so experiment with different designs and styles to find ones that suit your aesthetic.
5. Stickers
Stickers are another fun and versatile supply for decorating your bullet journal and adding visual interest to your pages. From motivational quotes to cute illustrations to functional icons, stickers come in a wide range of styles and themes, allowing you to customize your journal to your heart’s content. You can find stickers specifically designed for bullet journaling, or you can repurpose stickers from other sources, such as planner sticker kits or scrapbooking supplies. Just be sure to choose stickers that are the right size and shape for your journal, so they fit seamlessly into your layouts.
6. Highlighters
Highlighters are a useful tool for drawing attention to important information in your bullet journal, such as deadlines, priorities, or events. With a set of colorful highlighters, you can designate different categories or themes in your journal, making it easier to scan and find specific information at a glance. Highlighters are also great for adding color and visual interest to your layouts, so experiment with different hues to see which ones work best with your chosen color scheme.
7. Stencils
If you struggle with drawing straight lines, perfect circles, or uniform shapes, stencils can be a lifesaver for creating neat and professional-looking layouts in your bullet journal. Stencils come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing you to easily trace headers, banners, dividers, and other design elements. You can find bullet journal stencils in craft stores, stationery shops, and online stores, or you can even make your own stencils from cardstock or plastic sheets. Stencils are a handy tool for beginners and experienced bullet journalists alike, so don’t hesitate to incorporate them into your journaling routine.
8. Paper Clips
Paper clips may seem like a mundane office supply, but they can be surprisingly versatile and useful in a bullet journal. You can use paper clips to mark important pages, hold loose papers or receipts, or create interactive elements in your journal, such as flip-out pages or pockets. Paper clips come in a variety of colors and designs, so feel free to choose ones that match your journal’s aesthetic and add a touch of whimsy to your layouts. With a few well-placed paper clips, you can keep your journal organized and functional while adding a playful element to your designs.
9. Stamps
Stamps are a fun and creative supply for adding illustrations, patterns, and decorative elements to your bullet journal. Whether you prefer floral designs, geometric shapes, or whimsical characters, stamps come in a wide range of styles and themes, allowing you to customize your journal in endless ways. You can use stamps with ink pads in various colors to decorate your headers, borders, and background elements, or you can use them to create patterns and textures on your pages. Stamps are a versatile tool for adding visual interest to your journal, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different designs and techniques.
10. Watercolors
For those who enjoy adding artistic flair to their bullet journal, watercolors can be a beautiful and versatile medium for creating colorful and expressive designs. With a set of watercolor paints and brushes, you can add vibrant splashes of color to your layouts, create subtle washes for background elements, or paint intricate illustrations and motifs. Watercolors can bring a unique and personal touch to your journal, so feel free to experiment with different techniques and styles to see what works best for you. Just be sure to use watercolor paper in your journal to prevent bleed-through and warping, and allow your paintings to dry completely before closing your journal to avoid smudging.
Starting a bullet journal can be a fun and rewarding creative outlet, and having the right supplies can make the process even more enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned journaler or a beginner just dipping your toes into the world of bullet journaling, these essential supplies will help you get started on the right foot and create layouts that are functional, organized, and visually appealing. So gather your favorite pens, notebooks, and decorative elements, and let your imagination run wild as you embark on your bullet journaling journey. Happy journaling!
