Correct Utensils to Use for Bible Journaling
One of the easiest mistakes to make in Bible journaling is using the wrong writing instruments.
Whether you are a seasoned Bible journaler or just getting started, somewhere along the line you’ve had to consider which writing utensils are safe to use in your Bible.
I’ve learned the hard way and I don’t want you to have to go through the disappointment I’ve felt when I realized I had messed up my Bible page.
Your choice of pens, markers, and pencils significantly influences the outcome of your creative expressions. It’s important to explore various writing tools and techniques to help you make informed decisions, so that your Bible journaling experience is both enjoyable and rewarding.
Pens
Pens are a popular choice for Bible journaling due to their wide availability and versatility.
When selecting pens, consider archival ink pens that are waterproof and fade-resistant. These pens ensure that your creative expressions stay vibrant and intact over time, without smudging or bleeding through the thin pages of your Bible.
Fine-tip pens are excellent for detailed drawings and intricate lettering, allowing you to add depth and dimension to your artwork.
Unfortunately, I've learned from experience that some cheap colored ink pens seep through the paper over time. I haven't had trouble with black ink, but if you're going for the bold colors it's worth it to get good quality pens. As a rule, I've found that Sakura Pens don't bleed and have beautiful color selections.
Off brand gel pens in particular are notorious for bleeding through thin Bible paper, so make sure to test your pens in the back of your Bible before using them.
*Pro-tip: Write the name of the pen you're using when you test it so you'll be able to refer back to it later.
Markers
Some Felt tip markers work ok on Bible paper and others do not. Like with pens, it’s important to test your markers before using them to find out if they bleed or not.
It’s tempting to want to try water based markers because of their vibrant color, but I don’t recommend using them in your Bible as they often bleed through the paper.
Markers are, however, a great writing tool to use in a notebook or journal. They are readily available, inexpensive and come in a wide variety of colors allowing for many creative possibilities.
I prefer micron felt tip markers because of the wide range of tip sizes. I especially like the size 005 because it’s very fine and allows me to write legible text in very small spaces such as in my regular Bible that doesn't have wide margins.
Colored Pencils
Colored pencils are a favorite among Bible journalers for their control and ability to create subtle, layered effects.
They are excellent for adding texture and depth to your artwork. When choosing colored pencils, you don’t need to have high quality artist-grade pencils to get a smooth application and vibrant pigments.
I love crayola twistables because they blend well on Bible paper, creating a seamless transition between shades. Colored pencils work particularly well for creating intricate designs, achieving colorful shading, and adding highlights to your illustrations.
*Pro Tip: When shopping for Crayola Twistables, make sure you get the colored pencils, NOT the crayons. The crayons are wax based and will melt through the paper when your Bible gets warm.
Choosing the right writing utensils is crucial for enhancing your Bible journaling experience. Whether you prefer the precision of pens, the vibrancy of markers, or the subtlety of colored pencils, each tool offers unique possibilities for creative expression.
Experiment with different brands and types to find what works best for your style and preferences. Remember, the key is to enjoy the process, allowing your creativity to flow as you engage deeply with the Word of God.
To find the writing tools I use and other helpful Bible journaling supplies, check out my Amazon Shop.
