If you are new to art, or just want to keep a daily journal or journaling ideas in your head and on paper, then you will find that purchasing a good quality journaling supplies, and the good quality pens you need to put them on paper, can be expensive. But, if you think about it, the cost of having a good quality pen is a small price to pay for all the benefits you will get by keeping a journal. So, here are some great ways to save money on journaling supplies and art supplies:
First: You do not need to spend a fortune on Art Journaling Supplies just to start! The good news is that most of the popular art journaling supplies you will already have on hand, use most of the items you could possibly have right now at home! You might already have basic art supplies such as colors, chalk, and water colors. For example, if you own a large water colors palette at home, then you might consider throwing away or giving away that water color palette. Instead, you could save that water color palette in a jar and put it into a purse, or wallet.
Second: For the more serious art journalist, you do not need expensive, fancy journaling supplies in order to keep a good, daily diary. Remember, most journaling software is free, so if you want to buy supplies, which includes a camera, you do not have to spend hundreds of dollars. Some great options for beginners are spiral notebook holders, planners, and colorful spiral paper. These are inexpensive supplies that are often already in your home. You can find bullet journaling supplies, which are inexpensive and really easy to use, and also fountain pen supplies.
Third: Most people who are new to journaling are tempted to buy all sorts of fancy pens. While there is nothing wrong with buying fancy pens, remember that they are often disposable. You can save money by using your own pens instead. If you plan to write frequently, you may want to start out with one simple ball point pen. As you become more experienced, you will find that you do not need as many pens as you once did. If you are thinking of buying more fountain pens, you should also consider the number of ink colors that you want.
Fourth: Most journal enthusiasts love watercolor paintings. Although most of us consider watercolor to be “safe,” remember that the quality of the paper and paint can affect the quality of your art work. Do not settle for a cheap canvas that you are not sure of. You may be pleasantly surprised by the results. Also, if you have never painted before, try to buy quality paints that are specifically meant for journaling.
Fifth: For those who like to use crayola watercolors in their art journal, remember that this is actually a very bad habit. The paints are meant to dry slowly. Buy fast drying ones so that your works do not turn out pasted. Also, note that all paints are not created equal. Expensive watercolors have better quality pigments.
Sixth: Most artists enjoy buying plain white ink pens. These are a great way to use up extra stock. Note that some brands are more expensive than others. The key is to know your favorite brands so that you only buy the best pens. This is something that many people keep doing wrong: they keep buying a brand-name pen and eventually they run out.
Seventh: Most journaling enthusiasts include several pens, markers, and watercolors in their kit. Note that watercolors are not “real” watercolors – they are simply pigments that can be placed on paper. Watercolors are more difficult to use for detailed work. If you are only using one or two colors with your watercolors then get a smaller pen so that you don’t end up smearing the colors everywhere.
Lisa is a lifestyle article writer for a local newspaper. Aside from that, she is part-time English teacher on a high school. She also speaks at seminars and workshops. She is currently living with her husband and two kids.