idk who needs to hear this but...

I've personally found that making my art journals chunkier, rather than gluing pages together, has completely transformed my creative process. The added bulk isn't just a physical characteristic; it feels like a testament to the time and effort poured into each page. When you make your journal chunkier, you give yourself more freedom to experiment with different media—paints, collages, textured papers—which often need extra space and thickness to come alive. There is truly no such thing as too bulky when it comes to art journaling. A thick journal can hold your creative journey in a tangible way, creating a unique archive of growth and expression. You might worry about the journal becoming unwieldy, but this chunkiness adds character and makes flipping through each page more rewarding. Over years, your chunky art journal becomes a visual diary, showcasing how your style and ideas have evolved. If you're worried about stability, consider using high-quality binding and materials that can handle layers without compromising durability. Personally, I started my tenth art journal back in 2019, and it has become my chunkiest one yet, full of layered sketches, notes, and experiments. This approach encourages patience and immersion, letting you connect deeply with your creative process. So, instead of trying to minimize bulk, lean into it. Celebrate the textures, thickness, and richness it adds. Your chunky journal is like a companion that carries your artistic memories and sparks ongoing inspiration, making your art journaling practice even more enjoyable and fulfilling.