let's set up my new journal! it's a traveler's company notebook which I'll be using as a planner, for everyday notes, and doodling! ALSO -- PLEASE let me know in the comments if you have any recommendations for a place that sells cute binder clips that I can use to hold down the pages of my notebook! and thank you so much for watching!!
traveler's company: travelerscompanyusa.com
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I was so excited to receive my new journal, a Traveler's Company notebook, in the mail! So let's do a little haul. I ordered the passport size traveler's notebook leather cover in olive, a blank sketch paper refill, a monthly diary (calendar) refill, a graph paper refill, a plastic zipper case, and extra rubber bands to connect the booklets. Everything comes packaged so nicely, and it feels special unboxing it. I really appreciate this because journals, especially Traveler's Notebooks with their customizable quality, are very personal object.
If you haven't heard of the traveler's notebook, it's a journaling system made up of a cover and small booklet inserts (which kind of look like field notes) that come in all paper type variations such as watercolor, sticker paper, craft paper, and diary layouts. These mini books are removable and attached by an elastic strap on the cover. Traveler's notebooks are so well loved because even after you fill up all the pages, you can keep reusing the same outside cover. And then you have a collection of all these little books!
I believe Traveler's Company was the first to introduce this system of journaling. Traveler's Company began as a part of Midori (another stationary company that makes excellent paper goods). Then in 2014 Traveler's Company broke off as their own brand, but they're still owned by the same parent company -- Designphil. So, a lot of the paper inserts are Midori products, which I love.
My package also included a catalogue magazine of other products, and in it they featured a peak inside other people's journals for some inspiration and to see all the ways you can use this diary.
Once it's all put together, I'm ready to start my new journal! I begin by decorating the outside covers with stickers. Then I illustrate the title pages with ink. As you draw with me, I'll discuss my problems with the Hobonichi planner, and why I think this new layout will work best for me. Mostly, I find calendar spreads are the best for my planning and visualization. We'll also do a little plan with me, and writing my to-do lists. I dedicated my second notebook (the graph paper) for general notes. It'll be a catch-all common place book for my ideas, lists, and it'll just serve as a space to jot everything down so I don't have to keep it all in my head.
As I start drawing in my new sketchbook, I create swatches of every color in my paint palette. This paint describes itself as having a watercolor/gouache consistency - depending on how much you dilute it with water. The brand is Kuretake. Swatching is a great way to begin a sketchbook because it allows you to test the paper's compatibility with water. Plus, the first page can be intimidating and this form of painting is extremely low stakes. It always turns out cool looking, plus it's a mindless and relaxing activity.
So join me in this cozy video as I show you how to set up a new journal. I'll give you some diary inspiration and ideas for what to do with your next notebook. We'll talk about the art of journaling, stationary, and art supplies. I think journaling is the perfect thing to do as a monthly/mid-year reset, getting organized, or as a way to overcome art block. I hope you enjoy these journaling tips!
#hadleyqueen #journaling #travelersnotebook