Art journaling combines visual art with written reflection. Coloring pages give you a head start - the artwork is already there. You just add color and words.
Getting Started
You need:
- A binder, sketchbook, or folder to hold your pages
- Printed coloring pages (choose designs that resonate emotionally)
- Colored pencils, markers, or whatever you enjoy coloring with
- A pen for writing
- Optional: washi tape, stickers, magazine cutouts for embellishment
Journal Page Ideas
The Mood Page
Color a mandala using only colors that match your current mood. Write the date and a sentence about how you're feeling in the margin or on the back.
The Gratitude Page
Color a botanical or nature page while thinking about what you're grateful for. Write three things in the white space around the design.
The Memory Page
Choose a coloring page that connects to a memory - an animal you saw on vacation, a pattern that reminds you of a place. Color it and write the memory on the back.
The Intention Page
At the start of each week or month, color a page while focusing on an intention or goal. Write the intention at the top. When you look back through your journal, you'll see your goals evolve.
Adding Mixed Media
Once you're comfortable, experiment with:
- Washi tape borders and accents
- Magazine words or images collaged around the design
- Watercolor backgrounds behind the line art
- Stickers and stamps
- Metallic gel pen accents
Start with our mandala patterns for mood pages or nature pages for gratitude journaling.