• Layering
    • Just like layering with clothes, you can also layer in your diary. Layering can bring about an interesting end result and doesn't have to take up too much space.
  • Less Is More
    • It's really easy to go overboard with stickers, washi tape and colour in your planner. Ultimately, your planner has to be functional too so if you limit your space too much with these other tools, you might lose interest in staying organised. So, my tip here is to keep in mind how much space you'll have for to-dos, appointments and other essential things that need to be written down after the decoration is done. Personally, I prefer not to put washi tape at the tops and bottoms of my diary pages (the space is limited enough!) but I have done it on notepaper in the past.Sometimes, using simple things, such as dashed lines, can look good too. I love using dashed lines and have used them a lot in the past. I only do it once or twice in a week's spread and sometimes, it's missing completely in an effort not to overdo the creativity.
  • More Written 'Fonts'
    • I love trying to write in different ways - cursive, print, capitals; I try them all! And sometimes, using different 'fonts' can be a cheaper way to decorate. No stickers or washi tape needed :)
  • Washi Tape
    • If you're new to washi tape or don't want to use too much due to the limited diary space, you could use it to highlight days of the week or months.
  • Illustrations
    • Adding a simple illustration can add that personal touch. For example, in the next picture, I've drawn a kite in the top left picture where I thought I'd write down some song lyrics I love, a microphone in the top right, a heart in the bottom left and a crown in the bottom right. I wouldn't say I'm the best at drawing and if you feel the same about yourself, keep those illustrations simple - that's what I do :)
  • Splitting Words Up
    • This is something you could say is impractical in some cases (and I wouldn't disagree with you - splitting up words?!) but that was until I tried it. I think this can be done if the word is split in the right place but I guess there's no hard and fast rule.
  • Corner Sticky Notes
    • I have some big corner sticky notes so I cut them in half and now they fit perfectly in my planner. A pair of scissors and the sticky note world will be your oyster.
  • Stickers
    • If you're not a big fan or don't know how to get into the world of stickers, using useful stickers could be a good start. Weather stickers, these Filofax ones or Paperchase appointment stickers are all simple ways to introduce them into your planner because they are functional and add a little bit of colour too. Alternatively, you could just use your own illustrations instead.
  • Accessories
    • Sticky page markers, paper clips and bookmarks can all add another level of personality to a planner. My personal favourites are these duck clips from Midori - they are made of thick card but I didn't actually realise this when I purchased them!
  • Using Felt Tips
    • Felt tip pens are a great way to add colour but only if the paper can take it. I like using chevrons to decorate and although the next picture doesn't show it in my diary, it does show what I mean.
apr 10 2016 ∞
apr 10 2016 +