I've been experimenting with digital journaling lately. I'm a bit overwhelmed by all the terminology in this genre: Junk journaling? Scrapbooking? Art journaling? It's a little bit of everything or maybe something else entirely.
But in any case, even though I'm not sure what to call it, today I'm taking you along with me while I make a collage spread in Procreate using photos from a recent trip to Denmark, along with paper textures, stamps, hand lettering, and my Pattern Reveal brush set.
This is a relaxed process video, not a step by step tutorial — grab a cup of tea, follow along, and see if it sparks some ideas for you!
Brush Sets Used:
Color Palette:Â
Build Your Base Texture
Start by creating a spine for your journal using a blurred dark line. On a new layer, use the Cotton Canvas Grid from the Painterly Brush Set (or any paper texture of your choice) to fill the page. This subtle texture removes the "digital" coldness and makes the canvas feel like a physical book.
Add Photos and Turn Some Into Stickers
Open your Photos app in a split window. Drag and drop photos into Procreate as desired. You can tap and hold on subjects in your photos to "cut" them out and drag them directly into Procreate as cut outs. It only works in photos with a very clear subject and background, and the edges won't be perfect, but it's a fun and quick way to make "stickers."
Layer Mixed Media Elements
Using the Mixed Media Brush Set, add layers of paper and cardboard behind your photos. Layer multiple paper textures to create depth. I have used Ad 2 and Ad 8 from the Ephemera Stamps that come with the brush set, using a clipping mask. This gives the paper a vintage look. Alternatively you can just add any paper or vintage ephemera you might have in your own collection.
Add Magic with Pattern Reveal
Use the Pattern Reveal Brush Set to tie the elements together. I used the Star Bright brush for a festive feel and Doodle Stripes for an organic touch. These brushes react to your pressure. A light touch gives a subtle hint of pattern, while harder pressure reveals the full design. It’s a great way to add "controlled messiness" to your background.
Add Personal Lettering
Finish the spread with some messy, expressive lettering using the Gouache brush from my Lettering Brush Set (or any other lettering brushes of your choice). Write down location names, captions or little memories. I added a loose white outline behind my yellow text and also around some photo stickers to make them pop.
Optional Adjustments
Tidy as you go by grouping layers: Scrap Papers, Stamps, Patterns, Photos. It keeps things manageable when you want to rearrange. And if it starts feeling too busy (it will, that's fine), just turn off a layer or two and see what you actually need.
Final Thoughts
There's no rule that says a digital art journal page has to look a particular way. This one is personal, a little chaotic, and exactly what I wanted it to be. Give yourself permission to make something just for you.
