Studies show that spending time in nature has many physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Nature journaling is very popular in the homeschooling community. But did you know it is also great for adults too? Yes, and in today’s post, I am going to share simple tips for getting started with nature journaling.
photo
Minimalist Supply List for Nature Journaling
Nature journaling is pretty simple. To get started, you really just need a notepad and a pencil or pen. But if you want to add color or do a little more, here is a simple list of supplies I have to get started nature journaling myself:
U.S. Art Supply 5.5″ x 8.5″ Watercolor Book, 2 Pack
You want to start with a good-quality sketch pad or watercolor book. A quality pad, when using watercolors, is one with acid-free paper. You also want your pad to be easy to travel with and have room to add notes around your drawings.
Schpirerr Farben Watercolor Paint Set
There are many watercolor pallets to choose from. Honestly, as a beginner, you only need a few main colors. You’ll find that you can blend colors to make new shades. This is a simple kit and travel size. You want your set to be small enough to travel with on your adventures.
For a slightly bigger watercolor set, look at the Artistro Watercolor Paint Set. This set comes with all the supplies you need and 48 vibrant colors.
Watercolor Pencils
Watercolor pencils are great for creating more defined lines in your drawings. You can sketch your drawing and then use a brush and water to blend.
Watercolor Brush Pens
Watercolor brush pens are great to have and allow you to travel without bringing water and a cup to nature journal on the go. This is something I will add in the future since it is not a necessity but more of a luxury.
Easy-Macro Lens Band
Nature journaling is pretty educational. It’s science. Having the ability to take detailed photos allows you to document with more accuracy later when journaling.
Helix Angle and Circle Protractor
While you don’t have to be Vincent Van Gogh to nature journal, being able to make perfect circles and angles does change up the game. You’ll surprise yourself, watch.
The Laws Guide to Nature Drawing and Journaling
If you are completely new to nature drawing and journaling, grab a copy of John Muir Laws book, The Laws Guide to Nature Drawing and Journaling. This is a thick book and very wordy. However, it covers everything and has many step-by-step guides on drawing common animals, plants, etc. in nature.
Essentials of Nature Journaling
I always saw nature journaling and nature studies shared by other homeschool moms and thought, wow, that looks amazing. But, I thought there was no way we could create these amazing drawings. Well, did you know that drawing is a skill that anyone can learn? You don’t have to be a natural artist, and your drawings don’t have to look a certain way. So, let’s look at the basics of keeping a nature journal.
Drawings
The first step is drawing. When you’re out in your backyard garden, on a walk, or looking at your beautiful house plant, grab your journal, and draw. It doesn’t have to be perfect. You’ll grow. But starting is the first step.
Let’s use a bird for example. You might draw the entire bird as your main piece. But you also noticed it eating a worm. So you draw a worm on your page as well. Maybe you want to focus on the wings and you draw a close-up of the feathers. Or you simply draw the bird. It’s up to you.
Notes
So you have your drawing of the bird you saw while adventuring in nature. Next, you want to add some notes. What were the date and times? Where were you when you spotted the bird? Did the bird do or eat anything in particular? Write down what you feel is valuable to you.
Research
This is optional, but great for homeschoolers or nature enthusiasts. Do more research and add factual information to your journals. Bring pockets guides, utilize the internet, etc. There is so much to learn from nature.
COMMENT
Do you have a nature journal? Is nature journaling something you might begin in the new year for yourself or in homeschooling?
Leave a Reply