Combining Art and Journaling Mixed Media Ideas

Journaling is more than just writing—it can be a creative outlet that blends words and visuals. If you love both art and journaling, why not combine them using mixed media techniques? Whether you’re a writer, artist, or scrapbook enthusiast, adding artistic elements to your notebook, journal, or scrapbook can make your journaling experience more expressive and inspiring.

If you’re looking for ways to elevate your journal pages, here are some fun and easy mixed media ideas to help you turn your notebook into a work of art!

1. Watercolour Backgrounds for a Dreamy Effect

A watercolour journal adds a soft, artistic touch to your pages. You can:

Create watercolour washes for colourful, textured backgrounds.
Blend pastel hues for a soothing effect.
Write over dried watercolour paint with a black or white pen.

Use a thicker paper journal or sketchbook to prevent bleed-through and get the best results.

2. Collage and Scrapbooking Elements

If you love scrapbooking, consider incorporating collage techniques into your journal. This can include:

Magazine cutouts for mood boards or aesthetic spreads.
Vintage book pages or sheet music for an old-world charm.
Printed photos or Polaroids to document special moments.

A scrapbook journal works beautifully for this technique, giving you space to layer different materials.

3. Doodles and Hand-Lettering for a Personal Touch

Even if you’re not an artist, simple doodles and hand-lettering can make your journal pages unique. Try:

Sketching small flowers, stars, or icons in the margins.
Using calligraphy or brush lettering for quotes and headers.
Drawing abstract patterns for a fun background.

A bullet journal with dotted or grid pages is perfect for adding structured designs.

4. Stickers, Washi Tape, and Stamps

For an easy, no-mess way to decorate your journal or planner, use:

Stickers with motivational quotes or aesthetic themes.
Washi tape for colourful borders and dividers.
Rubber stamps to add artistic details effortlessly.

These scrapbooking supplies help add creativity to your notebook without requiring advanced art skills!

5. Pressed Flowers and Natural Elements

For a nature-inspired journal theme, try:

Pressing and glueing dried flowers or leaves onto pages.
Using earth-toned colours and natural textures for a rustic feel.
Writing nature-inspired poetry or reflections alongside floral elements.

A scrapbook journal or sketchbook with thick pages works best for this method.

Combining art and journaling with mixed media techniques allows for greater self-expression and creativity. Whether you prefer watercolours, collage, doodles, or stickers, there’s no limit to how you can personalise your notebook, journal, or scrapbook.

Looking for the perfect art journal or mixed media notebook? Explore a collection of beautifully designed journals, scrapbooks, and planners to bring your creativity to life!