Sketchbook Journaling 101 with Heather Arnold (April 10, 2021)

Model Coptic binding created in 2003 by Ratbasket. This is a modern version of a traditional Coptic binding, using wooden boards, Mohawk Superfine paper and 18/3 Irish linen thread. Photo by Ratbasket at English Wikipedia. (CC BY-SA)

Model Coptic binding created in 2003 by Ratbasket. This is a modern version of a traditional Coptic binding, using wooden boards, Mohawk Superfine paper and 18/3 Irish linen thread. Photo by Ratbasket at English Wikipedia. (CC BY-SA)

Journaling as a practice has a deep, rich history and is the closest thing we have to a time-capsule of the experiences and thought processes of loved ones, master artists, and leaders from the past. Today, many creatives and personal-development enthusiasts utilize the convenience and power of journaling in their sketchbook. 

At this workshop, Heather Arnold will walk participants through the use of coptic binding to create their own basic sketchbook journal. She will demonstrate various techniques and simple exercises to complete a personalized “Art Journal” that would score an A+ in art school while incorporating mindful strategies to combat creative blocks.

Sketchbook journaling gives owners a special place to: 

  • record personal progress over time

  • practice with techniques/mediums

  • allow creativity to flow freely without judgement

  • relax and quiet the mind from daily stressors

  • work through complex emotions and thoughts

  • keep thoughts, plans, and ideas organized and portable 

Workshop fee: $20.00



Supplies needed to complete this workshop:

  • Ruler

  • Scissors or utility knife

  • Wax thread + needle

  • Awl or push pin

  • 2 pieces of chipboard or cardboard 9x6½”  

  • 20-30 sheets of 9x12” mixed media paper (or paper of choice)

  • A mark-making utensil for measurements and working inside the pages (Micron/ballpoint pens, markers, pencils, acrylic/watercolor paint)

  • Recycled paper/magazines (for collaging/decorating the cover and inside)

  • Liquid glue (e.g., Elmer’s/Crafting Glue)

A Note about Kits:

You can find basic kits from your favorite online or brick-and-mortar stores. Look for basic bookbinding kits, which may give you an option on paper size, or no paper at all if you prefer to use your own. A key component is the wax thread, which can be purchased separately or comes in several of the kits. For example purposes, you can check out these kit options or find similar ones from your preferred vendor:

Or you may want to just purchase waxed thread. MIUSIE has a wide range of colors available; 284 yards for $7.89 on Amazon.com.

About the instructor: Heather Arnold studied Fine Art at Virginia Tech where she focused on combining traditional and digital technologies. During her time there, she discovered the benefit of having sketchbooks and time to journal. Now she is a Computer Technician with Pulaski County Public Schools, and she still carries a journal day-to-day just in case a creative spark brightens.