how-to: layout & organise your journal

After a small delay, I can now present the next in the series of step-by-step how-tos! Those of you who are familair with my journal keeping will know that I work to quite an organised layout. Below I have listed the numerous ways I like to organise and structure my journals.

1. Working to a grid - I always like to have a clear layout to my pages. The first thing I do on a new page is rule a pencil line around the edge of the page. Anything pasted in is aligned with this line and it also helps to keep writing tidy.

On pages where the entry does not require the whole page, I split the page into two columns. To do this I measure the middle of the page (I know the measurements off my heart now!) and draw a pencil line vertically through the middle of the page.

Note: I have very small handwritting, so can easily fit sentences onto the 'half-pages' vertically, but if your writing is larger, you can always try this by using the page horizontally, and dividing the page in half this way to give yourself more space.

2. The calendar - At the beginning of every new month, I create a little calendar. This is great for reflecting back on events, but can also help with daily planning. To do this, using a pencil I measure out seven equally spaced intervals along the top of the page, then do the same down the side of the page (the number will depend on how many days are in the month). I then draw in the lines to create the calendar grid where the boxes represent days.

If you are using a Pocket Moleskine, the box measurement is 12mm².

When you are happy with the layout, trace over the lines with a pen.

Note: Monday is always the first box in the line, so if the beginning of the month starts on the Thursday, make sure you start outlining the boxes from the fourth box along. Respectively, stop outlining the boxes on the final day of the month (which may also be mid-page).

Finally, you need to write in the dates.

3. The page marker - Something I have started to do with my more recent journals is add in a piece of ribbon to act as a page marker.

You will need a length of ribbon, string, wool, fabric or thread. Cut this to suitable length so that there is enough to appear from the botton of your journal (about 2cm). Also allow an extra 2cm for the piece that needs to be attached into your journal.

Open your journal at the inside back cover. Applying glue (a glue stick usually works fine) to the top 2cm of your page marker, press it in at the top left hand corner of the back cover, aligned next to the opposite page.

To ensure the page marker is fixed firmly, cover it with a piece of tape.

Close your journal and bend the page marker down. You can then place it inside your journal at the current page.

I hope these three simple ways to organise your journal will inspire you. If you have any little tips on how you organise and layout your journal, please feel free to share in the comments below! I'd love to hear about them!