The Watson-Guptill Fickle Writer

…

…

…

…

…

…

…

…

These days, writers use computers for writing. But most will admit there’s still something about good old-fashioned pen and paper that just gets creativity flowing. It’s difficult to brainstorm on a computer, or jot down notes and random thoughts, and it’s almost impossible to doodle in the margins.

Over the years, I’ve collected hordes of journals and notebooks. Some of them are pretty and whimsical. Others are simple and functional. I always go through lots of spiral notebooks for business but when it comes to creative writing, I have learned (the hard way) that I have pretty basic but specific needs that my journal must fulfill.

It has to be hardbound so it can withstand lots of use. It can’t be too big or too small. Something in the 5×8 inch range is just right. The paper must be archival quality because there’s less yellowing and tearing with higher quality paper.

Most importantly, the pages have to be unlined. I like to doodle and draw when the mood strikes. Occasionally, I write sideways, upside down, or even in circles (a technique for breaking through writer’s block). Sure, I can brainstorm and mind-map right over a line-ruled page, but why should I? Those lines are inhibiting and I need creative freedom. So there is only one journal for me: the Watson-Guptill Sketchbook. And the more I use these sketchbooks for my journaling, the more I love them.

The best thing about the Watson-Guptill is that if you are an artist and a writer, or someone who likes to paste photos or clippings into your journals, these are perfect because the pages thick and unlined.

The Watson-Guptill Sketchbooks come in several different colors including red, black, green, and purple. I’ve got one in every color! They are 5.5 by 8.5 inches and contain archival-quality paper. You can also get a larger size (about 8×10 inch) and landscape-oriented editions.

I know that writers love to rave about Moleskines. My confession for today is that I’ve never owned one. I’m not even sure I’ve seen one in a store. One of these days, I’ll get one and do a little comparative analysis but for now, I’m sticking with Watson-Guptill because I’m just a fickle writer like that.

What’s your favorite journal or notebook?