The best journals for writers

Putting pen to paper typically opens the door for more words to follow, which nurtures and expands the creative process. For this reason and more, journals are powerful tools for writers, sparking creativity and fuelling the flow of ideas.

Over time, journals also provide a unique perspective on how your writing evolves and improves. But with so many options, which journal types are best suited for writers?

Join us as we explore the different types of journals and recommend some of our favourites to enhance your writing journey, beat writer’s block, and boost your imagination.

What are the best journal types for writers?

Journaling is a valuable practice for writers, as it encourages regular writing sessions. However, certain types of journals are especially effective at stimulating your brain and unlocking new ideas. Let’s dive into some of the most beneficial journal types for writers.

1.      Idea journal

Inspiration often strikes at the most unexpected moments, making it essential to have a reliable way to capture fleeting thoughts, overheard conversations, and other inspirations before they slip away. An idea journal is perfect for this — a small, portable notebook you can keep in your pocket or bag, ready to jot down notes anytime, anywhere.

While using your mobile phone for notes might seem convenient, it has drawbacks like battery limitations and the potential for distraction.

2.      Writing prompt journal

Practice is vital to becoming a better writer, and a writing prompt journal is invaluable for honing your craft. Blank pages can be daunting, but writing prompts can trigger creativity and ease the pressure of starting from scratch. Find a prompt, grab your journal, set a timer if you like, and let the words flow.

Countless writing prompts are available online, but inspiration can also come from your surroundings. For example, pick a book from your shelf, open it to a random page, and use the first sentence you see as the basis for your writing.

Our blog also features writing prompts on seasonal themes like Christmas and spring to keep your ideas fresh.

3.      Dream journal

Dreams are a rich source of writing inspiration, but they tend to fade quickly when you wake. Keeping a dream journal on your bedside table lets you capture those fleeting details before they vanish from memory. Jot down your dreams as soon as you wake up, and preserve the unique and often surreal ideas your mind generates while you sleep — potentially useful for fictional material.

4.      Reading journal

A reading journal is a valuable tool for writers, helping you track what you’ve read and engage with literature on a deeper level. It’s more than just a log — it’s an opportunity to analyse a book’s strengths and weaknesses, examine its language and structure, and reflect on the emotions and thoughts it evokes.

By documenting these insights, you can uncover techniques and ideas to enhance your writing, making a reading journal an essential resource for continuous growth.

5.      Gratitude journal

Gratitude journals are ideal for reflecting on the positives in your life and enriching your well-being. Regularly focusing on what you’re thankful for gives you deeper insights into your life experiences, which can translate into more meaningful and authentic writing.

Beyond the obvious benefits, keeping a gratitude journal supports a healthy writing life in broader ways. The practice can result in better sleep, improved mood, stronger relationships, reduced anxiety and stress, and heightened mindfulness — all of which contribute to a more focused and productive writing process.

6.      ‘Morning pages’ journal

Julia Cameron, renowned for her work in unlocking creativity, developed a practice known as Morning Pages. This exercise starts each day by filling three pages with longhand, stream-of-consciousness writing.

The goal is to write continuously without any specific plan or agenda — just let your thoughts flow onto the page until you’ve filled three pages. This practice is designed to clear your mind, offer comfort, and help you organise and prioritise your day.

Morning Pages can be particularly beneficial for writers. They provide mental clarity that fosters fresh, original ideas.

The best writers’ journals

The ideal journal supports your writing projects, stimulates your mind, and encourages your best work. Whether you need a space to dive deep into a project or a spark to ignite your imagination, the right journal can make all the difference.

We offer a curated selection of journals and notebooks explicitly tailored for writers. Explore our collection to find the perfect journal that suits your writing style and needs.

Esterbrook’s “Write Your Story” A5 journal

Esterbrook’s “Write Your Story” A5 journal in Burgundy

Unleash your imagination with Esterbrook’s “Write Your Story” journal. This beautifully crafted journal boasts 190 pages of fountain-pen-friendly 80gsm paper, providing a smooth writing experience. Illustrated by renowned artist Betty Soldi, it’s designed to inspire and engage. The dotted pages are perfect for writing, drawing, and exploring ideas.

This FSC-certified journal, available in Burgundy, Teal, and Camel, demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and features a ribbon bookmark, a memento pouch, and a sheet of fountain pen nib-shaped stickers.

Paperblanks Manuscripts journals

The Mini Amy Winehouse Paperblanks Manuscripts journal featuring “Tears Dry On Their Own” lyrics

The Paperblanks Manuscripts journal collection celebrates the legacy of some of history’s most esteemed authors, philosophers, and artists. Available in three sizes — Mini, Midi, and Ultra — these journals feature the work of inspirational figures on their covers. These include William Wordsworth, Edgar Allan Poe, Charlotte Brontë, F. Scott Fitzgerald, William Shakespeare, and Rudyard Kipling.

Each journal is crafted with lined, acid-free, archival-quality paper, ensuring durability and a superior writing experience. Additional features include smyth-sewn binding for flexibility, a ribbon bookmark, a memento keepsake pouch, and a magnetic wrap-around cover.

Graf von Faber-Castell linen notebook

The Graf von Faber-Castell linen notebook in Night Blue

Elevate your writing experience with the Graf von Faber-Castell linen notebook in A4 or A5. This elegant notebook features ultra-smooth, high-quality 100gsm paper with excellent opacity. Every sheet is thread-stitched and glued to the spine, ensuring durability and allowing the notebook to lay flat for ease of use.

You can choose from six sophisticated colours: Electric Pink, India Red, Gulf Blue, Night Blue, Golden Brown, and Grey.