Nature Journaling Tools

What are the basic tools that you need to start Nature Journaling? I am not naming the brand name of the products that I use, as everyone’s preferences will vary. I experiment and get things on sale/discounted.

• Unlined notebook. You could use just a piece of paper and clipboard, but it’s nice to be able to go back to a binded-book dedicated to your journaling practice as loose papers get lost. I like to use journals with minimum 140lb paper weight so that the paper is strong enough to withstand water from watercolor brush and paint.

• Pencil or Pen. I prefer to use a pen that uses waterproof archival ink, so that the ink doesn’t smear or wash away if it gets wet. I prefer pen over pencil. I use different size pen nibs until I’m confident with my lines.

• Ruler or tape measure

• Magnifying glass or loupe

• Binoculars

• Color pencils or watercolor paints & watercolor brush (or you can color your journal pages when you get back home if you don’t want to carry this in the field.)

• Download your free Quick Start Guide to Nature Journaling zine. What is a “zine”? It rhymes with “green” and is a mini-magazine! This handy quick start guide includes everything you need to get started nature journaling! It covers the basics (a definition, using words/pictures/numbers, and I notice/I wonder/It reminds me of), plus info on tools, places to journal, and more.

  BONUS: Turn the zine inside out for seven inspiring nature journaling prompts. The QR code takes you to more online resources to support your nature journaling journey, including a link to a digital version. Versions are also available in Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Chinese, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese.