You do not have to have an elaborate collection of supplies, but there are a few beginner supplies for getting started with Bible journaling that will make the whole process a lot easier. Some of the links below are “affiliate links.” This means if you click a link and purchase an item, I will receive a small affiliate commission that helps me to be able to continue with this blog and hopefully continue to inspire you as well.
I’m back again today for Part 4 of my “All About the Bible Journaling” series and can’t wait to get some pretty little supplies in your hands. If you missed Part 3, then be sure to check it out because we talked about ways to get inspiration when Bible journaling that will really come in handy very soon. I really want to first start out though by saying that you don’t have to have a ton of supplies to start Bible journaling. This isn’t an expensive hobby so please don’t let that hold you back at all. You can truly start with just a pencil and journal if you like.
At the same time though, there are some supplies that really make this whole process a whole lot more fun and engaging when you do have them. You will also start to collect more and more supplies as time goes on and you become more confident. As far as today, we are going to discuss just a few basic supplies to help you get started. There will definitely be discussion in another post of some of my favorite supplies that you can start putting on a wish list to collect later.
Journaling Bible: Obviously you can create entries in a journal, but there is something so much more engaging about this worship time when you are working directly within your Bible and meditating on those scriptures as you work. I personally use the ESV journaling Bible in Antique Floral Design. The cover is a floral tan and cream design with imitation leather accents on the corners. It is smaller than most Bibles, but the margins on each page are plenty wide enough to include any illustrations.
For more choices, I have an Extensive Journaling Bible Round-up where you can check out tons of options and the features for each one. You can even find Bibles that have non-colored and colored illustrations if you think that would help you get started and not feel so intimidated.
Colored Pencils: My favorite are the Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils. Not only are they extremely affordable, but they are so easy to use. No messy sharpening. Just twist the bottom when you need more lead. They also do not have a super sharp point that would make an indention or tear in your page. The color will not bleed through and show on the back of the page which makes it great to use as a highlighter to emphasize a verse or passage that I am illustrating and focusing on.
Ink Pens/Colored Pens: I use the Staedtler Triplus Fineliner Pens. They come with so many different colors in a clear case that also opens to stand on its own. They come in fine tip making it great to write in my Bible and do not bleed through either. I love having colored ink to add more color instead of just a plain black pen.
When I am looking for a high quality black pen though which I also use often to write over colored backgrounds, I recommend the Faber Castell PITT Artist Pens. They come in a pack of four all black ink in x-small, small, medium, and bold point. They are amazing because they do not bleed through the pages to the other side. Especially because Bible pages are so thin compared to most.
Journal: If you would like to start out with something simple or don’t feel comfortable working directly on scripture, try just using a basic journal. I love the Moleskin journals personally but any kind would be great. I know some people have different feelings toward working on the pages of the Bible. That is okay too. A journal is a great way to still enjoy this whole idea and have some art journaling that is scripture inspired.
Now go right ahead and start gathering your supplies or let the shopping begin!! Either way, you are going to have a blast and be so thankful that you decided to dive in. You truly only need a few supplies to start and can always add more with the more techniques you learn.
If you are so excited and anxious to get started, then you may want to go ahead and sign up for my free 5 Day eCourse that is perfect to jump start this new study tool of Bible journaling. You will receive a new email each day discussing a different topic or aspect with a little fun “homework” assignment each day to keep you accountable with getting started.
If you are even more ambitious, then check out my eBook, Adventures in Bible Journaling: An Extensive Beginner’s Guide to Art and Bible Journaling, to get even more information and tutorials. I have a Gold, Silver, and Bronze package depending on what you are looking for specifically. There are printables and also step-by-step video tutorials that make it even easier to understand so you can work right alongside me in your Bible.
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