You CAN Journal: How to Use a Journaling Bible (Without Being an Artist)

If you have ever searched for "Bible Journaling" on Instagram or Pinterest, you have probably felt two things:

1. Awe: "Wow, that looks beautiful."
2. Intimidation: "I could never do that."

The internet is full of stunning, hand-painted Bibles that look like they belong in a museum. And while they are inspiring, they can also be discouraging. You might look at your own handwriting, or your lack of painting skills, and decide that a Journaling Bible just isn't for you.

But here is the truth: Journaling isn't about art. It’s about worship.

The wide margins in a Journaling Bible aren't there to test your artistic ability; they are there to give you space to respond to God. And you don't need to be Michelangelo to do that.

If you can hold a pen or peel a sticker, you can journal. Here are 5 creative ways to use those wide margins without drawing a single thing.

1. The "Washi Tape" Header

If you can’t draw a straight line, let tape do it for you. Washi Tape is a decorative paper tape that is slightly transparent and easily removable (so you won't ruin the page).

• The Method: Simply place a strip of colourful Washi tape at the top or bottom of the page to mark a new chapter or a favourite passage. It adds an instant pop of colour and makes the page feel "lived in" with zero effort.

Tip: We stock sets of biblical-themed Washi tapes that match our Bibles perfectly.

2. Sermon Notes (The "Text-Only" Method)

Who said a journal has to have pictures? The most practical use for a wide-margin Bible is simply to capture what you hear on Sunday morning.

• The Method: Instead of using a separate notebook that you’ll likely lose, write your sermon notes directly next to the verses the pastor is preaching on.

Pro Tip: Use a simple Micron Pen (which doesn't bleed through thin Bible paper) and use bullet points. Years from now, you will read that verse and immediately see the wisdom you learned today.

3. Sticker Theology

If you are afraid of making a mistake with ink, stickers are your best friend.

• The Method: Use "Word Stickers" or "Verse Stickers." These are pre-designed phrases (like "Amen," "Grace," or "He is Risen") that you can stick straight into the margin. It gives you the "professional lettering" look without needing to learn calligraphy.

Why it works: It’s quick, it’s neat, and it emphasises the key themes of the text visually.

4. The "Highlighter" Code

You can turn your Bible into a visual map of themes just by using colour.

• The Method: Assign a colour to a specific theme.
  • Yellow = Prayers
  • Pink = Promises of God
  • Blue = Commands to obey
  • Green = Historical facts

When you look back at a page, you won't just see text; you’ll see a visual pattern of what God is saying. Just make sure you use Bible-safe highlighters (like gel highlighters) that don't bleed through the page.

5. The "Trace & Paste" Technique

Still want pretty images but can't draw? Cheat.

• The Method: Buy a Bible Journaling Stencil or a "Vellum Insert." You place the stencil over the margin and simply trace the shape with a pencil. Or, print out an image you love, cut it out, and paste it into the margin using a glue stick.
• It’s not cheating; it’s collaging!

Ready to Start?

Don't let the fear of a blank page stop you. Your Bible doesn't need to look like an art gallery; it just needs to look like yours.

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