My Favorite Bullet Journal Supplies for a Beginner (to any level!)
Looking for the best bullet journal supplies to kickstart your journaling journey? I've compiled a comprehensive guide filled with essential tools and recommendations to help you dive into the magical world of bullet journaling, inspired by Ryder Carroll's innovative system.
I’ve been passionate about journaling for as long as I can remember. But, discovering the bullet journal system 5 years ago was a game-changer. It's helped me become more focused and intentional in my creative pursuits.
The beauty of bullet journaling is its versatility. It can be a list maker, calendar, journal, planner, sketchbook, or any combination of these. Customize it to fit your unique needs and goals. As you grow and evolve, so will your bullet journal.
When starting your bullet journal journey and purchasing new supplies, consider the core message of Ryder Carroll's traditional system. Ask yourself: Will this component help me? Choose the elements that resonate with you and build from there.
Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you click through and take action, I'll be compensated. Click here for my full disclaimer.
BASIC SET UP SUPPLIES FOR SETTING UP YOUR BULLET JOURNAL
To start bullet journaling I recommend 6 key items
WHAT IS THE BEST BULLET JOURNAL on the market?
The bullet journal that I have come to adore as the absolute BEST bullet journal in the world is the Bullet Journal 2 Leuchtturm Medium A5 Dotted journal. Leuchtturm also recently released a special 120g version without the bullet journal branding that I love (same paper as the Bullet Journal 2!) \
The reason I think the Bullet Journal 2 Lechtturm Medium A5 dotted journal is the best is because pages are 120 g VS 100 that is the usual for most bullet journals on the market, like the Leuchtturm Bullet Journal . I personally use this version but it is a little more expensive. If you decide to start off with the original Leuchtturm 1917, I still find them awesome and a little more authentic feeling. I love they offer SO MANY COLORS! You can pick a color that matches your mood that month! The Leuchtturm 1927 bullet journals have a ghosting effect, which is why I think the version 2 of the official bullet journal is worth the extra dollars :)
What are the best bullet journal pens?
I’ve tested SO many pens over the last 5 years and if I had to pick just one pen and size I would choose the The Staedtler 0.3 Pigment Liner Fineliner. I find 0.3 to be a great size for just about anything: writing, making lines, etc.
If you’re okay getting a variety of pens, I do love the Stabilo Sensor for my grid outlines. I also think the Micron Variety pack is a great place to start so you can start to see what size pens you prefer. Also, consider purchasing a white out or white gel pen for those little mistakes you may make!
I would get a small, clear 6-inch ruler (I always get a pack of 3 or 6 because over time you may lose or break one and some pencils: Arteza are by far my favorite!
What are the best bullet journal pENCILS AND OTHER SUPPLIES I MAY NEED?
At the risk of sounding like a Bullet Journal Snob, I believe that the quality of materials you choose to work with can effect your experience with the bullet journal. When I lay out my favorite pencils, rulers, white out, pens, stickers, etc to get started, I truly get excited!
THE BEST MARKERS FOR BULLET JOURNALING:
I am also a believer that you should pick marker colors that resonate with you and the vibe you want to create in your journal. I personally love more pastel colored markers but you may enjoy bright and bold. Remember, your journal is about helping you fill your life with MORE of what you resonate with and letting go of what isn’t for you.
Additional fun bullet journal supplies to make your heart sing!
Let’s get to the fun part: Decorating your journal and making it yours! I use these beautiful butterfly stickers to decorate pages sometimes. Any sort of washi tape to hold pages together if you want to keep something private or you make a mistake on a page and don't want to look at it. Look at these gorgeous constellation washi tape ones! I included some more fun supplies below- I love the snow mountain washi tape!
STorage ideas for bullet journal supplies
Okay, now that I have all these fun pens, stickers, washi tape and rulers, where do I store it!?
I personally use handmade pottery pencil/pen cups on my desk and the ProFolio by Itoya to sort my supplies. (I love the ProFolio for traveling because there are three separate compartments inside and I can keep my pens, markers and stickers/washi separate).
Here are some other ideas I think are fun for storing your supplies!:
LAST BUT NOT LEAST
Ryder Carroll is the creator of the original bullet journal system and I think he's a pretty cool guy! I don't use the official bullet journal system but his quick tutorial on the site is a great reference to start, and then build your own for fun from there! His book, The Bullet Journal Method is a great read too and I love bringing it to our bullet journal workshops we host!
Bullet journaling has been one of the most useful alignment tools I’ve used to focus my energy into the places I am desiring to be. I hope that this post has inspired you to purchase a few fun tools and get started today!