Ruled vs. Grid vs. Blank - Exploring Types of Journals

Hey there lovelies! Did you know that the type of journal you buy can affect your journaling experience? Each type of journal has its own pros and cons, so what you choose is up to personal preference! In this article, we will talk about the different types and brands of journals so you can decide which one sounds most appealing to you. Factors that would help you choose might include whether you want complete freedom or a guide to help you, as well as how much writing you plan on including! It also depends on whether you want a higher-end journal designed for journaling or not. Let's jump right in!

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Blank Journals

Blank journals are great if you mainly want to use your journal creatively. It gives you the freedom to play around with layouts without being bound to lines or grids. White space won't be taken up and can be used to your advantage. This helps gives your journal a clean look. It can be more difficult to make everything straight, especially if you're including writing in your journal. This can be remedied by using a ruler but also gives you the option to be more creative with your placement of stickers, washi tape, and writing. I chose a blank journal as my first one due to the freedom I felt it gave me to be creative! It's perfectly ok to not have everything neat and perfect. As satisfying as that can be, part of learning and growing is trying new things. That's what journaling is all about!

If you're looking for a higher-end journal, I recommend investing in a Leuchtturm1917 journal. This is the what I use, and I love it! They come in a large assortment of colors and styles. I recommend them regardless of the type of journaling you're doing, but especially for creative journaling. A small sketchbook would also work nicely, and are easy to find at hobby stores for cheap. A multi-media one would work best so your spreads don't bleed through the pages. If they do, just cover up bleeds by adding washi tape, sticky notes, or paper on top so it isn't noticeable.

Ruled Journals

These are the traditional type of journals you might be most familiar with. They're usually used for journaling involving a lot of writing. You might use this as a space to get your thoughts out in a healthy way, for introspection, and for general mental health journaling. Typically, they aren't designed for creative journaling. Since ruled journals are more common, they're much easier to find and therefore cheaper. You also have the option of buying an already themed one, or buying one with a blank cover so you can decorate your own! I love themed journals, but there's an extra level of excitement when you get to do it yourself!

As for where to buy these, check in-store or online at any place like Target, Amazon, Staples, or Michaels! In the case that you are on a tight budget, a wide-ruled notebook would work as well! They're generally cheaper than journals, and you may have a spare one laying around your house. For an example of an already decorated journal, click here. For a plain one you may decorate yourself, click here. I have owned a great number of these journals, most of them already themed. Their themes have ranged from nature to Disney to anime, with my current one being Disney's Haunted Mansion. Whatever niche or popular theme you're looking for, it exists!

Dotted Grid Journals

When I first began journaling, dotted grid journals confused me. My first proper journal had blank pages. I never considered buying a grid one because I couldn't wrap my head around why someone would want dots in their way. I actually still don't own a dotted journal, although I plan on trying one out when I complete my current journal.

These journals are actually great for beginners! The dotted grid gives you a frame of reference for layouts and writing. A completely blank page can be daunting, but if there's a grid for you to use to line up all your stickers, washi tape, sticky notes, and words, you'll have an easier time getting started. It can also double as a lined journal if you think of the dots as lines, or use a ruler to draw a line connecting them. Even though I originally didn't think much of grid journals, I now believe they are a nearly perfect blend of different types of journals. The dots give you more options in one journal. But if they still seem to constrain you, that's ok! Pick what you feel would make you most comfortable. Some people prefer to separate mental health and creative journals, like me. But for those who want everyone in one spot, I highly recommend these.

To purchase a dotted grid journal, I recommend checking Amazon, Michaels, Barnes and Noble, or a specialized stationery shop like Stationery Pal. While I recommend the Leuchtturm1917 for dotted grid journaling as well, they are on the pricier side. Cheaper options are easy to find online. For example, I recommend this Artist's Loft journal from Michaels.

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And that's it! I hope this overview of journals has taught you something new! Get out there and put your new knowledge to use! If you've enjoyed this article, make sure to follow me on Instagram @sweetberry_stationery and on Pinterest @mysweetberrystationery for journaling ideas and to be in the know when new articles are released! Remember to make the people you love feel loved, and have a beautiful day!