Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means if you use the link(s) to purchase the item(s) below, I will receive commission for advertising on my site (at no additional cost to you!).
Let’s set the record straight. Bullet Journaling isn’t about the supplies you use. Because of social media, a beginner would most likely think that they need these supplies to bullet journal “the right way”. The truth is, you can start with any notebook and any pen (or pencil) to practice bullet journaling. Always remember that the bullet journal is a system – a methodology and not merely the art of journaling.
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
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.
In Little Coffee Fox‘s video on Morning Pages, Shelby suggests that it’s helpful (but not required) to have nice supplies. It’s because that you’ll be more motivated to write especially if you’re not used to writing on paper.
What I’m about to share is a list of typical go-to Bullet Journal supplies that have been highly recommended by the bullet journal community and myself.
Note: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means if you use the link(s) to purchase the item(s) below, I will receive commission for advertising on my site (at no additional cost to you!).
The Bullet Journal Method (Official book by Ryder Carroll)
First and foremost, if you have the ability to do so, please get a copy of The Bullet Journal Method. It is really a great read because it doesn’t only tackle how to bullet journal but also how to be productive and live an intentional life. His book targets both bullet journal beginners and also novice/experienced ones. It’s really a great read and also a great way of supporting the father 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.
- Official Bullet Journal Notebook. Ryder Carroll, the creator of the Bullet Journal, created a dedicated notebook for bullet journaling. I think this is 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.
- 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
I honestly don’t know why drawing pens are a thing in the Bullet Journal community. But I think drawing pens/technical pens have been the preferred type of writing instrument for bullet journaling because Ryder Carroll used a fine liner in his introductory video of the Bullet Journal. Aside from that, drawing pens write beautifully and are typically waterproof – which makes it a great pen for journaling.
- Sakura Pigma Micron
- Tombow Mono Drawing Pen
- 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
Color is definitely low priority and is not a requirement for bullet journaling. However, some bullet journalists are visual people and need a bit of color just to create a distinct border between days or lines. If you opt for adding a bit of color, I suggest using muted or pastel highlighters or brush pens. Muted colors help add a pop of color while keeping the page neat and minimalist.
- Tombow Brush Pens (N95 gray, 491 blue)
- Zebra Mildliners (Read: Mildliner Review)
- Crayola Supertips
Just remember…
You don’t absolutely need these supplies to bullet journal. You can use any notebook – it can be a planner, or a composition notebook. For pens, you can use any ballpoint pen around the house. You don’t even need colors to bullet journal “the right way”. Just make sure that you like the materials that you are using so that you’re always motivated to write things down – especially in this digital age.
Want to see a complete list of my recommended stationery? Click here!
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