Nature Journaling
Sketch what you see outside.
Nature journaling is recording what you see outside in a notebook. Sketches, notes, dates, weather, observations. Whatever's around.
The drawings don't need to be accurate. The point is paying close attention to things like how a leaf attaches to a stem, or when a flower blooms relative to last year. People who do it consistently start identifying plants and birds without trying.
A notebook, a pencil, and a place to sit outside is enough. Watercolor and colored pencils come later, if at all.
You’ll love nature journaling if…
- you want to spend more time noticing what's outside.
- you have a notebook and a pencil and that's enough.
- you'd pair it naturally with walks or sitting in your backyard.
What you'll need to get started
Mixed-media sketchbook
Paper that handles pencil, pen, and a little watercolor. A good size for a daypack.
Waterproof drawing pen and pencil set
Drawings hold up to weather and accidental water from a sketch. The pencil is for measurements and quick lines.
The nature journal guide
Covers what to record, how to organize entries, and the kind of attention that makes the practice worth doing.
Pocket watercolor travel kit
A small palette with brushes that fits in a pocket. Adds color to sketches without adding much weight.
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