When I first opened my Bible and decided to start journaling in it, I’ll be honest—I felt completely overwhelmed.
Should I use regular pens? Would the ink bleed through the thin Bible pages? Do I need fancy highlighters or a full Bible journaling kit?
If you’re asking yourself the same questions, you’re in the right place.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the best Bible journaling supplies that can transform your time in God’s Word from simply reading to truly experiencing it.
Whether you’re a beginner or you’ve been journaling for years, having the right tools can make all the difference.
Why Bible Journaling Supplies Matter
Bible journaling is more than just decorating pages—it’s a way to connect deeply with Scripture.
When you highlight a verse, add a note, or use color to bring attention to a promise, you’re creating a personal record of your walk with God.
But here’s the thing: the wrong supplies can frustrate you. I can’t tell you how many times I used a regular pen only to see it bleed through my favorite Bible.
Investing in the right journaling supplies saves you time, keeps your Bible looking beautiful, and makes your journaling experience much more enjoyable.
Must-Have Bible Journaling Supplies
1. Bible Journaling Kit
If you’re just starting out, a Bible journaling kit is the easiest way to get everything you need in one place. Most kits include Bible pens, highlighters, washi tape, and sometimes even stencils or stickers. Think of it as a starter pack for your creative quiet time.
Pro tip: Choose a kit that’s designed specifically for journaling Bibles so you don’t have to worry about ink ruining your pages.
2. Bible Pens
Not all pens are created equal. You’ll want Bible pens that are smooth to write with but don’t bleed through the thin pages of your Bible. Gel pens are vibrant but can smudge, while archival pens are perfect for clean, lasting notes.
Some of my favorites are fine-tip pens that let me write small notes during Bible studies without taking up too much space.
3. Bible Pens and Highlighters
Highlighting verses is one of the most meaningful parts of Bible journaling. The right Bible pens and highlighters will help you color-code themes like faith, hope, or God’s promises without damaging your Bible pages.
Look for:
- Non-bleed highlighters (usually gel or dry highlighters work best).
- Soft colors that won’t overpower the text.
- Sets that include both pens and highlighters so you can mix and match.
4. Colored Pencils
When you want to add depth or shading, colored pencils are your best friend. They’re gentle on thin Bible pages and give you more creative freedom than markers. I love using them for lettering, underlining, or adding soft borders around my notes.
5. Washi Tape
Washi tape is one of those fun extras that quickly becomes essential. Use it to mark important pages, create borders, or add little pops of color. It’s easy to remove and doesn’t damage your Bible, making it perfect for journaling Bibles.
6. Bible Tabs
If you’ve ever gotten lost flipping back and forth, Bible tabs are a game-changer. They help you quickly find the books of the Bible while also adding a beautiful, creative touch. You can buy pre-made sets or create your own if you enjoy DIY journaling supplies.
Optional Bible Journaling Supplies (Nice-to-Haves)
- Stickers & Stencils – Great for adding art even if you’re not confident in drawing.
- Page Protectors – Use them under your Bible pages while writing to avoid pressing too hard.
- Glue Pens or Adhesive Rollers – Perfect for attaching prayer notes or sermon outlines.
How to Choose the Best Supplies for You
When you’re ready to start Bible journaling, remember this: your supplies should fit your personality.
- If you love art → invest in colored pencils, stencils, and washi tape.
- If you’re a note-taker → grab Bible pens, highlighters, and tabs.
- If you’re on a budget → start small with just Bible pens and one set of non-bleed highlighters.
The goal isn’t to have the fanciest supplies—it’s to create a Bible that reflects your faith journey.
My Personal Favorites
Over time, I’ve found that the best setup for me is a good journaling Bible, a small set of archival pens, and a handful of pastel gel highlighters. That’s it. Everything else is a bonus.
On busy mornings, I keep it simple by underlining verses that stand out during my Bible studies. On slower evenings, I pull out washi tape and colored pencils to really dive into creative worship.
The beauty of Bible journaling is that there’s no “right way.” Your Bible becomes a mix of prayers, art, and personal reflections—something you’ll treasure for years.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever struggled to stay consistent in Bible studies, the right Bible journaling supplies can make Scripture come alive in a whole new way.
From pens that don’t bleed through the thin pages of your favorite Bible to colorful washi tape that brightens your quiet time, these tools are more than just stationery—they’re companions in your spiritual journey.
So whether you start with a simple Bible journaling kit or build your own collection of supplies, remember: it’s not about perfection.
It’s about spending intentional time with God, capturing what He speaks to your heart, and making your Bible uniquely yours.
Quick Recap of Essential Supplies:
- Bible journaling kit
- Bible pens
- Bible pens and highlighters
- Colored pencils
- Washi tape
- Bible tabs
With these basics, you’ll be ready to dive into creative worship and make your Bible a personal testimony of faith.
Ready to start? Grab your favorite Bible, a good pen, and one highlighter—and let your journaling journey begin today.
