Journaling is often seen as a written practice, but it can be so much more than words on a page. Adding artistic elements to your journal can spark creativity, enhance self-expression, and make the process even more enjoyable. Whether you're using a positivity journal, a manifestation journal, or a music journal like the ones available at Land of Serenity, incorporating art can transform your journaling experience into something truly personal and visually inspiring.
Why Add Art to Your Journal?
Art can capture moods, emotions, and experiences in a way that words sometimes can't. It allows you to express thoughts visually, turning your journal into a unique reflection of your personality. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or someone who hasn’t picked up a paintbrush in years, there’s no right or wrong way to include art in your journaling.
Adding artistic elements can also:
🎨 Make journaling more engaging – Colours, doodles, and sketches can make your pages feel vibrant and alive.
📖 Help you process emotions – Art can be a powerful emotional outlet, just like writing.
✨ Encourage mindfulness – The process of drawing, painting, or collaging can be incredibly relaxing.
So, how can you creatively enhance your journal? Here are some simple yet effective techniques to get started.
1. Doodling & Sketching ✏️
One of the easiest ways to add art to your journal is by doodling in the margins or sketching simple illustrations. You don’t need to be a professional artist—stick figures, abstract designs, and geometric patterns all count!
Try this:
🖍 Add small icons or illustrations next to journal entries (e.g., a sun for a happy day, a cloud for a stressful one).
🖌 Draw borders and frames around your writing to give your pages structure.
📖 If you’re using a manifestation journal, sketch images of the things you want to attract into your life.
2. Collage & Mixed Media ✂️
Collaging is a brilliant way to make your journal visually engaging without needing to draw or paint. Collect materials like magazine cut-outs, newspaper clippings, ticket stubs, postcards, or pressed flowers to create layers of texture and meaning.
Try this:
📸 Create a vision board page in your journal using magazine images and inspiring quotes.
🎟 Add memories to your pages by pasting in concert tickets, travel souvenirs, or photographs.
🌿 Use washi tape or fabric scraps to add texture and colour.
📌 Tip: If you’re using a music journal like the one at Land of Serenity, create pages inspired by album artwork or paste in lyrics that resonate with you.
3. Watercolours & Ink Washes 🎨
Watercolour painting can add soft, dreamy backgrounds to your journal pages. Even a simple ink wash can give your writing a beautiful, faded aesthetic.
Try this:
💧 Create a watercolour wash across your page before writing over it.
🌸 Paint abstract patterns, flowers, or landscapes to reflect your mood.
🎶 In your music journal, paint in colours that reflect the emotion of an album you’re listening to.
📌 Tip: If your journal paper isn’t thick enough for watercolours, use separate paper and glue it in!
4. Stamps, Stickers & Stencils 🏷️
For those who want to add creativity without drawing or painting, stamps, stickers, and stencils are a quick and easy way to make journal pages pop.
Try this:
🖋 Use letter stamps for headers or motivational quotes.
✨ Decorate your positivity journal with stickers that represent your goals and achievements.
🎭 Use stencils for consistent shapes and patterns if freehand drawing feels intimidating.
📌 Tip: If you're using a bullet journal-style layout, stencils can help keep your designs neat and organised!
5. Calligraphy & Hand Lettering 🖊️
Hand lettering is a great way to highlight key words, quotes, or headings in your journal. It adds a touch of artistic flair to your writing without needing additional materials.
Try this:
📖 Write your journal entries in different fonts to reflect different emotions.
✍️ Highlight your intentions and affirmations in bold, flowing calligraphy.
💬 Experiment with bubble letters, gothic script, or brush lettering for variety.
📌 Tip: A manifestation journal from Land of Serenity would be a great place to practise lettering your goals and affirmations in an eye-catching way!
Final Thoughts: Make It Your Own!
The best thing about incorporating art into your journal is that there are no rules. Your journal should feel like a safe, creative space, whether it’s filled with paintings, simple sketches, or just a few stickers here and there.
Not every page needs to be a masterpiece—just have fun with it! Whether you’re using a music journal, positivity journal, or anxiety journal, adding art can make your journaling experience even more meaningful.
Which technique are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments! 👇
💡 Explore our range of journals at Land of Serenity and start your creative journey today!