Find Your Journaling Style: A Complete Guide to Bullet, Art, Vintage & More

Starting a journal can be exciting, but also overwhelming. With so many journaling styles out there, how do you find the one that truly fits you? This guide will walk you through the most popular types of journaling, help you discover your unique style, and show how a vintage aesthetic can tie it all together.

Why Define Your Journaling Style?

Having a style isn't about rules; it's about creating a personal, inviting space that makes you want to write. It reduces the “blank page fear,” strengthens your creative identity, and simply makes the process more enjoyable.

Explore 5 Popular Journaling Styles

• Bullet Journaling: The ultimate customizable organizer. Perfect for planners and list-makers.
  • Vintage Twist: Use muted colors, kraft paper tape, and antique-style stamps for dates.
• Art Journaling: A visual playground focused on collage, painting, and mixed media.
  • Vintage Twist: This is its natural home. Layer vintage scrapbook paper, old book pages, postage stamps, and dried flowers for a timeless look.
• Memory Keeping: Dedicated to preserving specific events like travel or family moments.
  • Vintage Twist: Print photos in sepia or black & white. Use photo corners and handwritten captions with a classic fountain pen.
• Dream Journaling: For exploring your subconscious.
  • Vintage Twist: Use deep-colored paper, metallic inks, and mysterious, antique-looking stamps to decorate entries.
• Creative Writing: A space for stories, poetry, and reflections.
  • Vintage Twist: Emulate an old manuscript. Write on lined or blank cream paper and seal sections with a wax seal stamp.

How to Discover Your Unique Style (A 4-Step Process)

• Gather Inspiration: Use Pinterest or Instagram. Save pages you love—what colors, textures, or layouts keep appearing?
• Create a Mood Board: Group your inspirations. Identify 3-5 core colors and materials (e.g., “kraft paper,” “faded ink,” “linen texture”).
• Experiment with One Page: Don’t overhaul your whole journal. Use supplies from a starter kit to complete just one spread. See what feels right.
• Iterate and Evolve: Your style will grow with you. It’s okay to mix elements from different journaling styles.

Essential Toolkit for a Vintage Journaling Style

• Notebook: Look for a leather-bound or fabric-covered journal with cream-colored pages.
• Writing Tools: Pens in brown, burgundy, or olive green ink.
• Decoration Core: Vintage washi tape (solids and classic patterns), ephemera packs, and a set of antique-themed stamps.
• Adhesives & Finishing: A glue stick with a matte finish and a wax seal kit.

Start Your Journey Today

The best journaling style is the one you’ll stick with. Pick one style that calls to you, gather a few key vintage journaling supplies, and create your first page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: I’m a complete beginner. Which style should I start with?
  A: Start simple. Bullet journaling (for structure) or memory keeping (if you have photos/events) are great. Add one or two vintage elements like washi tape to begin.
• Q: Is a vintage style expensive or time-consuming?
  A: Not necessarily. Focus on a few key supplies like a neutral washi tape set and some stamps. You can tea-stain paper or use coffee for DIY aging effects affordably.
• Q: Can I mix different styles?
  A: Absolutely! That’s how you create a unique journaling style. Just maintain some visual harmony, like a consistent color palette.
• Q: I don’t like my handwriting. Can I still journal?
  A: Yes! Use alphabet stickers, stamps, or print and cut out your text. Your journal is for you—function and feeling matter most.

Ready to find your journaling style? Explore our curated Vintage Journaling Starter Kit with all the essentials to begin your creative exploration without the overwhelm.