Step 1 – Page Prep
Where the Alchemy Begins
Before the collage, the ink splatter, the gold leaf, the poetry, there is the page.
And what transforms a blank surface into a sanctuary for your creative expression?
Gesso.
What Is Gesso, Really?
Gesso is a primer, traditionally a blend of chalk, binder, and pigment, that transforms porous paper into a strong, flexible canvas. It gives “tooth” (subtle texture), grip, and durability to your surface. Without it, many mediums bleed, warp, or fade.
It’s the first conversation between you and the page, a gesture of preparation, care, and intention.
Gesso is a game changer
My personal favorite is a heavy gesso
Why Gesso Matters in Art Journaling
Protects your paper from bleed-through, buckling, and deterioration
Creates a receptive surface for paint, ink, glue, and heavy layering
Allows for texture play, brush strokes, palette knife ridges, or smooth glides
Makes layers easier to remove (yes, even mistakes can be wiped away before drying)
Encourages risk-taking, when the substrate is strong, you’re more likely to go bold
Step-by-Step: Preparing a Two-Page Spread
Open your journal to a two-page spread. Feel free to work vertically or horizontally depending on your mood and vision.
Reinforce the spine with archival tape or washi tape. This helps keep moisture out and adds structure, especially near perforated or glued seams.
Artist Tape
Tape protects the stitching of the binding
Choose your gesso (see recommendations below), then apply it using your favorite tool:
Flat brush: smooth, controlled application
Sponge: soft, cloud-like texture
Palette knife: thick, expressive ridges
Old credit card: fast, satisfying scrapes
these sponges are going to be your best friend
can be versatile to use and can create great texture!
Let it dry completely. You can let it air dry (ideal for a softer surface) or use a hair dryer for speed, but keep it on low heat to avoid warping the page.
(Optional) Sand the surface gently if you want a super-smooth texture for drawing or fine details.
💡 Pro Tip: Paint a few swatches of gesso on scrap paper and test how your favorite materials respond, ink, pencil, watercolor, chalk, collage glue. Each one behaves differently depending on the brand and application.
Use a blow dryer for a quicker dry time.
The thicker you lay on your gesso, the longer it will take to dry. The top will harden first, but the inside could still be soft.