Start Art Journaling for Under $30: A Beginner’s Guide to Budget-Friendly Supplies
- Alexandra Cruz
- Jul 4, 2025
- 4 min read
Do you ever scroll past beautiful art journal pages and think, “I wish I could do that... but art supplies are so expensive”?
You’re not alone.
One of the biggest myths about starting an art journal is that you need fancy paints, designer paper, and a huge budget. The truth? You can start art journaling for under $30—and still make beautiful, expressive, soul-soothing pages.
At Journaling Tale, we believe art is for everyone—especially those who think they’re not “artistic” enough or “can’t afford to start.” So here’s your simple, beginner-friendly guide to gathering affordable supplies and beginning your creative journey.
"The object isn't to make art, it's to be in that wonderful state which makes art inevitable."
— Robert Henri
💡 Why Start Art Journaling?
Art journaling is a mix of writing, drawing, painting, collaging, and self-expression all in one cozy, creative space. It’s not about perfection—it’s about play. It’s a safe spot to experiment, let loose, and document your feelings, memories, or just your love for color.
🛒 The Essential Supplies (All Under $30 Total!)
Here’s a breakdown of some supplies you can find to start art journaling on a budget:
1. A Journal or Notebook – $0–$10
You don’t need a fancy notebook. And in fact, you don't need to buy a journal at all! You can easily make one yourself using recycled items you may already have. But if you do want to buy a journal, here's some ideas for you.
Journals from your local dollar store.
A basic mixed media pad
Upcycled materials (great for making your own journal!)
Tip: Collect papers you were planning on getting rid of, and make your own journal using upcycled items! This can be letters you get in the mail, magazine papers, old book pages, and more!
I have made several videos on my channel showing you how you can make your own art journal using upcycled items, so make sure to check them out for more ideas! → https://youtu.be/ChNLZvbtaB0?si=LaPsx75-ZBPjLMAn
2. Paints Supplies – $5–$20
Now, I know paint supplies can be expensive, and if you want to spend a little more on good paint supplies, then do so! But here, are some supplies I get myself that are budget friendly.
Paints (Apple Barrel Brand): Can range anywhere between $0.50-$1.50 for 2 oz bottles.
Watercolor Palettes: Check out your local dollar store or craft store!
Watercolor pencils or Colored Pencils: You can find colored pencils pretty much anywhere. Crayola is a budget friendly brand.
3. Glue Stick – $1–$3
A simple glue stick is perfect for sticking in paper scraps, photos, or dried flowers. You don’t need anything fancy.
4. Old Magazines, Paper Scraps, Handmade Pattern Papers, or Printables – $0–$2
This is my go-to supply when it comes to art journaling or mixed media art. And every mixed media artist knows this!
Source for materials. Save your magazines or old books that may be tearing apart. Save your letters you receive in the mail. These are all things you can use in your art journals.
Tip: Save your papers and make marks on them, paint on them, etc. These make for excellent pattern papers you can then use in your art journals!
Gather:
Old book pages
Junk mail with fun patterns
Wrapping paper scraps
Digital downloads (like those in the Journaling Tale digital shop!)
Source books or magazines at your thrift store!
5. Pen/Markers – $1–$4
You’ll want something to doodle, journal, and add contrast. A black ink pen (or fine liner) or sharpey work wonders for detail and doodling.
Go to your local dollar store, you can get a whole pack of sharpies or pens for $1-$1.50!
6. Scissors – Free (you probably already have them!)
Snip, layer, tear, paste—this is where the magic happens. Let yourself be messy. Let it be imperfect. That’s where the beauty lives.
🖌️ Optional but Fun (If You Have a Few Extra Bucks)
A cheap set of washi tape ($3–$5)
A small sponge or makeup wedge for dabbing paint
Stamps and ink pad for texture
🧠 A Gentle Reminder: You Don’t Need It All
Don’t wait until you “have everything.” Use what you have. Create with what’s around you. That’s the true spirit of art journaling—expression over perfection.
🌼 Ready to Begin?
Once you have your small stash of supplies, challenge yourself to create one page—just one. Let go of expectations. Make blobs. Add a quote. Doodle a flower. Tear some paper and glue it down for no reason other than you like it.
If you need extra inspiration or want to grab ready-to-use printables, explore our digital paper packs and journaling kits in the Journaling Tale shop—affordable, beautiful, and made with love.
✨ Final Thoughts
Art journaling isn’t about making masterpieces—it’s about making space for yourself. And the best part? You can start today, with less than $30, and a whole lot of heart.
Happy journaling 💛
– Alex from Journaling Tale
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