(CREATE) NATURE JOURNAL
Record your nature observations by drawing or writing about them.
MAIN SUPPLIES
– sketchbook or notebook (computer paper or the inside of cardboard cereal boxes work, too!)
– writing or drawing utensils (your favorite pencils, colored pencils, pens, crayons, or markers)
​
EXTRAS (FOR ADVENTURES)
– backpack for holding ↓
– field guide to identify organisms
– first aid kit (include water & snacks)
– glass jars w/ lids (these are good for holding water for painting, or collecting specimens)
– observation tools (binoculars, camera, magnifying glass, pocket microscope, telescope, gloves)
– watercolor paints & brushes
You may also want a chair, blanket, or jacket for comfort.
2020 Kortnie Huffman
try a 20 word writing prompt!
class notes from Red-tail's
Write Around Us: Nature Journaling for Beginners
techniques:
– drawing
– observations
(see, hear, smell, feel)
– writing
​
tips:
– avoid self-editing
– doodle & sketch
– if not in nature, use photos
– keep visiting the same places
– perfection is on the paper
– share on your own terms
My Life as a Leaf
In spring, I'm oft unseen;
In summer, I'm green;
In fall, I'm yellow, orange, or red;
In winter, I'm dead.
WHERE SHOULD YOU NATURE JOURNAL?
anywhere you feel comfortable! find a bench at your neighborhood park, set out a blanket in your backyard, visit your favorite nature preserve, walk your favorite trail, take a picture on your next canoe trip down the White River, dust off your local field guide, or take a sketchbook to your nearest window – & start observing. What do you see, hear, smell, & feel?
here's one way I journal: using local field guides & my own nature photos as wildlife references to paint from home
supplies used:
– paintbrush & water
– paper
– watercolor paints
– field books or photos
REMEMBER:THERE'S NO WRONG WAY TO JOURNAL