Must-Have Tools for Bullet Journal Beginners

Though it does require a notebook, Bullet Journal® is actually a methodology. It’s best described as a mindfulness practice disguised as a productivity system. It’s designed to help you organize your what while you remain aware of your why. The goal of the Bullet Journal is to help its practitioners (bullet journalists) live intentional lives, ones that are productive and meaningful.
– Ryder Carroll, bulletjournal.com

The truth is, you can start with any notebook and any pen (or pencil) to practice bullet journaling.

If a notebook and a pen are suffice for bullet journaling, why bother with good quality supplies?

Everyone has their own preference when it comes to their journaling supplies. Some only need one pen and a notebook, and some need different color markers and a nice thick papered notebook. Most of them have their writing instruments of choice because that is what keeps them motivated to write in their bullet journal.

The Bullet Journal Method (Official book by Ryder Carroll)

If you can, grab a copy of The Bullet Journal Method. It’s a solid read, covering not only the basics of bullet journaling but also tips on productivity and intentional living. The book is helpful for both beginners and experienced bullet journalers, and it’s a great way to support the creator of the Bullet Journal.

📘 Notebook

Most of the people in the bullet journaling community prefer using dot grid notebooks over other types such as lined/ruled, grid, or blank. Given the customizable nature of a bullet journal, the dots on the grid paper are minimal yet provide enough guide to act as lines.

1. Official Bullet Journal Notebook. Great for beginners because it includes an 8-page Bullet Journal guide, template for bullet journal keys, an index, and space for future log. This is an A5 sized dotted notebook manufactured by Leuchtturm1917.
2. Leuchtturm 1917 A5 Dotted. The Leuchtturm1917 is one of the most known bullet journal notebook brands. It’s similar to the official bullet journal notebook except it doesn’t have a Bullet Journal guide.

🖊️ Pen

Technical pens offer the control, reliability, and quality that bullet journalers need to create well-organized and visually appealing pages.

1. Sakura Pigma Micron
2. Tombow Mono Drawing Pen
3. Uniball Signo DX 0.28 – If you’re not into fineliners or drawing pens, you should try a gel pen instead. Fineliners’ tips have the tendency to wear out easily especially if you’re a heavy writer unlike gel pens that have metal tips instead of felt.

🖍️ Color

Adding color gives bullet journalers an extra layer of personalization and functionality, helping them stay organized while enjoying the process.

1. Tombow Brush Pens (N95 gray, 491 blue)
2. Zebra Mildliners (Read: Mildliner Review)

Want to see a complete list of my recommended stationery? Click here!