Notebook Size Guide and Journaling Ideas

Notebook Size Guide and Journaling Ideas

Hello, Keisha here. Today we will be discussing how to begin journaling. There are many ways to use a journal however many people don’t know where to start. I have to admit, getting started can be a bit overwhelming so today we will cover what a journal is, what journal to choose and ideas on how to get started.

Hello everyone, my name is Keisha from @k.moartsy.journals and for more art and journal inspiration you can find me on Instagram and TikTok  at that handle. Today we will be discussing How to begin journaling. There are many ways to use a journal however many people don’t know where to start. I have to admit, getting started can be a bit overwhelming so today we will cover what a journal is, what journal to choose and ideas on how to get started.

So Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Archer & Olive notebook (choose the size of your preference)
  • Medium of choice (watercolor, colored pencils, and or markers) optional
  • pencil
  • pen
  • stickers (optional)
a5 notebook

What is a journal ?

The best way to get started with journaling is to have a clear understanding of what a journal/ journaling is. It’s also important to identify what you plan to gain from the act of journaling, so let’s get started!

A journal is a personal record where you can document your thoughts and experiences in written form. It can also serve various purposes such as an art journal, a tracker, a goal setting journal, a travel journal etc.

 The key aspect to journaling is that it can provide a space for personal expression, allowing the writer to improve and/or reflect over their lives overtime.

 

square notebook

How to get started:

Step 1 : Choose your journal

Your options can vary when selecting the type of journal that is best for you. There are bullet journals with dot grids, lined journals and blank journals. There are also various sizes to consider when choosing a journal. Listed below are the typical sizes of standard journals:

A5(5.8x 8.3): popular size* Can be used for everyday journaling. Very portable 

A6(4.1x5.8): Compact and can easily fit in a bag for on the go notes or journaling. This size is commonly known as a “pocket journal”.

B5(6.9x9.8): This journal is a little bit larger, great for sketching and  creative journal layouts

letter size notebook

Letter sized( 8.5x11):This journal can be used for extensive writing purposes such as, project planning, artwork and there even useful for creators with larger hand writing.

Square (8x8): This size journal is excellent for art journaling, memory journaling as well as written journaling

Traveler’s Notebook (4.3x 8.5) : this journal is often used for quick jotting of notes and sketches while traveling. It also is also a great journal for to-do lists.

tn notebook

You may find that you have to try out a few sizes before committing and that is perfectly fine.  Remember, choosing the right journal depends on your personal preferences and what works for others may not work for you.

Journaling can be a creative and fulfilling process. Listed below are a ideas on what to journal:

  • Weekly planning: you can use your journal to organize and schedule your weekly tasks and goals in a personalized planner layout.
  • Diary: you can use your journal to chronical your feelings and/or thoughts
  • Doodles and Sketching: your journal can be used to chronical your art journey
  • Memory journal: photos, collages and mementos are a great way to document memorable moments.
  • Reading journal: a reading journal can document your reading experiences about the books you’ve read.
  • Quotes and inspirations journal: collect quotes that resonate with you. 
  • Prompt journal: using prompts can provide structure to your journal  which is especially helpful when you don’t know where to start. 
b5 notebook

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to journal. Choosing the best journal and journal format can ensure that you get the most out of your journaling experience.

notebook stack

Thank you for checking out my tips on how to start journaling! I hope that you have found some inspiration in this blog. See this video for more inspiration:

Be sure to check the free printable available with the blog.

I’ll see you guys next time, bye!

0 comments

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

I'm Looking For...

View all
Pens
Pens

Pens

Notebooks
Notebooks

Notebooks

Shopping Bag
Shopping Bag

Shopping Bag

Washi Tape
Washi Tape

Washi Tape

Notepads
Notepads

Notepads

Planners + Accessories
Planners + Accessories

Planners + Accessories