New to journaling? You've got all the tools but don't know where to start? Today, using a tropical beach journal as an example, we'll break down a versatile plan for creating any style. Mastering this plan requires just four core steps. Regardless of your style, you can create a seemingly complex yet simple, high-quality journal!
1.Establishing the visual framework (foreground layer)
Purpose: Define the visual boundaries of the page and set the overall tone.
Example: Apply tropical flower stickers around the page.
Keep adding floral elements to create a lush frame.
Then use a pen knife to cut out irregular areas along the inner contour, remove the cut area in the middle, and form a hollow border.
Versatility:
Any style - Use related elements to create a rich, layered frame. For example, for a retro look, use vintage stickers like stamps and butterflies, along with a vintage frame. For a cute look, use colorful polka dots and bubbles. For a Chinese style, use maple leaves.
Vintage stamp stickers
Vintage stamp stickers
Cute colorful bubble stickers
Maple Leaf Chinese Style Tape
2. Lay out the scene (background layer)
Purpose: Provide a harmonious stage for the theme.
Example: Attach tape depicting a blue sky, white clouds, and a beach scene to a new page (be careful not to expose any white behind the framed page) to create the base scene.
Versatility:
Any style—Use the appropriate tape, stickers, or background paper to create a background.
Tip:
Typically, choose a large block of color or a gradient effect for the background, avoiding overly complex patterns that overwhelm the main theme.
Universe starry sky background tape
3.Highlight the protagonist of the picture (theme layer)
Purpose: Determine the visual focal point and core story of the page.
Example: Paste characters that fit the tropical beach theme onto the background.
Versatility:
Any style: Choose a character sticker or tape that matches the style.
Tips: Keep the main character in the focus range of vision.
Dancing Girl Tape
Comic Boy Life Stickers
4. Enrich the details of the picture (embellishment layer)
Purpose: To enhance the journal's sophistication and storytelling.
Example: First, apply double sided tape to the bottom page and secure the two pages together.
Add beach elements such as lemons and sailboats to decorate the page in detail and add text elements.
Ding ding~ a beautiful double layer notebook is completed.
Versatility:
Any style:Add related small items tapes around the theme. For a home theme, add a coffee machine, cups, pens, etc.
Tips:
Pay attention to the size of the details; choosing stickers that are too large may steal the show.
Home element stickers
Vintage element stickers
Now, we just need to swap out the elements in the example to create a different style of journal using the exact same steps!
Remember the creative sequence for this two layer journal frame focusing method: frame, background ,subject and details.
No matter what style you're creating, it's best not to rush to add your favorite subject, as that'll cause you to constantly switch between peeling and pasting like a robot. With a clear logic, won't a dazzling journal seem simpler?
DESKCOSMOS' Instagram account has many beautiful journal examples to inspire you. After reading this blog, we have a special offer for you: use the discount code [B15] when you purchase something on the DESKCOSMOS official website and you'll receive a bonus gift from us: a sticker storage box valued at $5.99. Click here to start shopping.
Now, grab your tape and stickers and join me in creating a brand new journal!
If you're struggling with choosing the right tools for your journal, you can refer to this blog post.
