Getting Started Bullet Journaling: Supplies

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I started bullet journaling in April and it’s become one of my favorite things to do. Whenever I share a photo of a spread, someone asks me about getting started. I thought I’d share a few tips for getting started with bullet journaling. This post will cover the basic supplies you’ll need to get started.

A Notebook — The prices of notebooks range from $5-$30 depending on the paper quality you want. My first bullet journal was a cheaper quality. I’m still using it because I didn’t want to waste paper but I will be moving to a more quality one in 2019.

I currently use a Minimalism Art A5 Dotted Journal. I chose it because it was on the cheaper side with nice paper and I could use it for something else if I decided that bullet journaling wasn’t for me. It works well but there is a lot of ghosting and bleed through, so I have to be careful when using different art mediums. However, if you’re just going the minimalist bullet journal route this is great for you.

I haven’t decided whether I’ll use the Scribbles That Matter or Lemome for next year but I am using this Lemome journal for travel journaling.

Writing Tools

I was already a pen addict before I started bullet journaling but of course, I’m even more obsessed now that I’m bullet journaling. My favorite pens to use in grad school were Pilot G-2. I tended to use the bolder tips but now that I’m working on my handwriting fine liners are my favorite.

If you’re going to venture into brush lettering, I recommend starting with the smaller brush pens like Tombow Fudenoske or Pilot Enso Brush Pens. It’s easier to learn to control the up and down strokes with the smaller calligraphy pens. You can also use old school Crayola markers for practicing or their fancier dual brush pens before you decide to spend money on more expensive products.

Embellishments

If you want to make your bullet journal spreads prettier but you don’t have time to spend on drawing, you can always use washi tape, planner stickers, or scrapbook paper. I’ve used all of them and I love that my planner still has a personalized feel. Unlike store bought planners, no one else will have the exact same planner as you.

Misc Supplies

Pencils, erasers, and white out are all great to have on hand. It’s less stressful when you make a mistake if you know you can correct it. The rulers and circle maker aren’t must-haves but they definitely take some pressure off.

Do you bullet journal? Are you a minimalist or a more extravagant planner?

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