Trying out the Uni-ball One in the color Mamedaifuku! The 0.5 writes a bit thicker than I like but oh well, because I love how soft it makes the spread look 🤍
Also, happy 2025! Hope you had a wonderful start to the new year ☺️
... Read moreHey stationery lovers! I've been absolutely loving how my latest Hobonichi weekly spread turned out, especially with the Uni-ball One pen in Mamedaifuku and those adorable stickers. You know, when I share my spreads, I often get questions about how to achieve that super cute, coordinated look, sometimes even referencing 'スタポン' – a term often associated with decorative elements and stamping in Japanese journaling. While I mostly use stickers, the spirit is the same: making your planner a joyful, personalized space!
For those curious about incorporating more decorative touches, whether you're into traditional ‘スタポン’ style rubber stamps or prefer the ease of stickers, here's how I approach it. My aim is always to create a 'soft aesthetic' that's easy on the eyes and a joy to look at every day.
First off, choosing your tools is key. The Uni-ball One pen in Mamedaifuku, with its gentle, dusky pink hue, was perfect for this spread. It lays down a beautiful, soft line that complements the pastel tones of my stickers. Even though the 0.5mm writes a bit thicker than I usually prefer, the ink quality makes up for it, creating a lovely, diffused look on the page.
Now, let's talk about stickers – my go-to for adding instant charm! For this specific weekly planner spread (you might have seen the December 16-19 or December 18-22 views!), I used a mix: the Grandpa Bear Sticker Sheet, Holiday Happiness Sticker Sheet, and Mini Gingham Deco Sticker Sheets. Here are a few tips for making them shine:
Layering for Depth: Don't be afraid to layer! I often place a larger background sticker, like a decorative building or a gingham pattern, and then pop a cute character sticker, like one of my favorite bear stickers (the one holding a book or a package!), on top. This adds visual interest and makes your layout feel more professional.
Color Harmony: Try to stick to a cohesive color palette. The Mamedaifuku pen ink and the soft colors of these stickers naturally blend, giving the entire spread a harmonious, calming feel. It’s all about creating gentle transitions.
Integrating with Tasks: My spreads always include handwritten tasks like 'pack orders' or 'journal.' I love using small deco stickers or mini bear stickers around these functional notes. It transforms a mundane to-do list into something delightful. For instance, I might put a tiny sticker next to a bullet point or use a strip of gingham tape to highlight an important task.
Filling Empty Spaces: Sometimes, after noting down all your important events and 'restock supplies,' you'll have little pockets of empty space. This is where those cute stickers come in handy! They effortlessly fill those gaps, turning what could be blankness into an intentional part of your 'journal spread.'
While 'スタポン' usually refers to rubber stamping, which offers incredible detail and texture, stickers are a fantastic, mess-free alternative, especially for on-the-go journaling. You get that immediate decorative impact without needing ink pads or cleaning supplies. However, if you love the idea of stamping, consider clear stamps! They offer precision, much like placing a sticker, and you can see exactly where your design will land. Many Japanese stationery brands excel at both, and combining them can lead to truly unique spreads. I've even seen journalers incorporate tiny Japanese characters using stamps or stickers to add an authentic touch to their aesthetic.
Ultimately, whether you use a Uni-ball One pen, stickers, stamps, or a combination, the goal is to create a weekly spread that brings you joy. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your personal style. What are your favorite ways to decorate your planners? Do you prefer stickers, stamps, or both? Share your tips below!