If you've just discovered the world of journaling stickers, welcome — you're in for a treat. Stickers are one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to bring your planner or journal to life, but if you're new to it, you might be wondering: where do I even start?
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to start using journaling stickers with confidence.
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What Are Journaling Stickers?
Journaling stickers are decorative (and functional!) adhesive labels designed specifically for planners, bullet journals, scrapbooks, and notebooks. They come in all shapes and sizes — from tiny icons and washi-tape-style strips to full weekly kit layouts that cover an entire spread.
At Hello Petite Paper, our Journaling Stickers collection includes everything from doodle icons to full monthly kits, all designed with a hand-drawn, craft-inspired aesthetic.
What Do You Need to Get Started?
The good news: you don't need much. Here's a simple starter kit:
- A planner or journal — any notebook works, but A5 and personal-size planners are the most popular for sticker layouts.
- A sticker kit or sheet — start with a Mini Kit or a Monthly Kit to get a coordinated set of stickers in one go.
- Scissors or a craft knife — for trimming stickers if needed.
- Tweezers (optional) — great for placing tiny stickers precisely.
How to Use Journaling Stickers: Step by Step
1. Plan Your Layout First
Before peeling anything, sketch out or visualise your spread. Decide which sections you want to highlight — headers, habit trackers, to-do boxes, decorative corners. This prevents wasted stickers and helps you use them intentionally.
2. Start with Functional Stickers
Functional stickers (like date covers, headers, and checklists) anchor your layout. Place these first so you have a clear structure to decorate around.
3. Layer Decorative Stickers
Once your functional stickers are in place, add decorative elements — florals, icons, washi strips, and journaling cards. Don't be afraid to overlap slightly for a layered, collage-like look.
4. Fill Gaps with Die Cuts or Paper
Blank spaces? Fill them with die cuts or small pieces of vellum or patterned paper for texture and depth.
5. Add Personal Touches
Write notes, doodle, or add washi tape to make the spread truly yours. Stickers are a starting point — your handwriting and personal style complete the picture.
Tips for Beginners
- Don't overthink it. There's no wrong way to journal. If it makes you happy, it's right.
- Use a kit for cohesion. Kits are designed to work together, so everything coordinates without effort. Try our Personal Kits or Horizontal Kits depending on your planner style.
- Store unused stickers properly. Keep them in a binder or sticker book to protect them and make them easy to find later. Our Sticker Books & Albums are perfect for this.
- Start small. One decorated spread a week is plenty to build the habit.
Ready to Start?
Browse our full range of journaling stickers and find a kit that speaks to your style. Whether you're into soft florals, bold graphics, or minimalist layouts, there's something here for every journaler.
Happy decorating! 🌸