Nature Journaling

Nature Journaling is a great way to become more observant and appreciate and learn about plants, animals, birds, habitats. Emandal is the perfect place to explore and learn how to make a record of what you see using words and pictures as you create your journal. The tools are simple: a notebook, pencils, colored pencils, pens, a small watercolor set, a ruler.

It's much more about learning to slow down, pay attention, notice more, and get curious about the wonder and beauty around you.

It's not a time to be critical of your words or drawings, crossed out or misspelled words, imperfect drawings. There will be helpful ways to improve drawing skills and how to use watercolor. Drawing is a powerful way to understand something, it helps you slow down and notice details. We will especially practice asking questions about your observations: I notice, I wonder, It reminds me of… are some writing prompts to get you started.

Supplies needed for this workshop include most importantly a sketchbook. I have made many of them in various sizes. If you have a preference, it will be YOUR journal, so choose what you want to bring. My go to is the Pentalic Aqua Journal.

Sketchbook-

#1 Pentalic Aqua Journal 5”x8” Bound, horizontal format, 48 pages $22.99 on Amazon

#2 your choice! Square, horizontal, vertical, spiral or bound. Must take watercolor

Top brands are: Moleskin, Aquabee, Etcher, Stillman & Birn, Strathmore

Pencil – basic mechanical pencil

Eraser – kneaded eraser or Cretacolor

Pens – must be waterproof ink Sakura Micron or Pitt

Watercolor sets also have MANY options. If you have one you like, start with that. You do not need a large set, and if you plan to travel, small is best.

#1 Winsor Newton Cotman 13 color set

#2 Danile Smith set of 6 Sketcher colors

Watercolor brushes: three sizes: 2 small rounds, one larger flat. Water Brushes are great for travel.

A bag to carry your supplies and sketchbook

water container (optional)