Winter Plein Air Journaling Made Easy

Winter might not seem like the greatest time to take your art outdoors, especially if you’re nestled in the chilly mountains. But here’s a little secret—it can also be the most magical time to create with some art journals. Think snow sparkling in the sun, frost clinging to branches, and snow-covered barns dotting the landscape. The winter scenery practically begs to be captured in your journal!

Why Plein Air Journaling?

While snapping photos for future reference is always handy, nothing compares to the experience of sketching and painting in the moment. A journal field sketch lets you record not just the scene but also the mood—your thoughts, the crisp air, the sounds of crunching snow. It's a creative time capsule that you can revisit and share with others.

Now, let’s talk supplies. Winter weather can make lugging around a full plein air setup a hassle. But don’t worry—lightweight and portable options make it easy to embrace spontaneity. Here’s a breakdown of some fantastic tools to keep your journaling kit simple and effective.

Portable Watercolor Solutions

1. Watercolor Pans
   Compact and versatile, watercolor pans are a classic choice for field sketching. Preselected sets, like field boxes, typically include 8–12 basic colors—plenty to capture a winter wonderland. You can also refill pans with your favorite tube paints. The Joe Miller Signature Watercolor Travel Set is a standout option, offering a sleek palette and room for all your essentials.
   
   
2. Watercolor Pencils
   Watercolor pencils are perfect for adding fine details and blending colors with a quick brush of water. They’re easy to carry, but be cautious when sharpening them—they’re delicate and prone to breakage.
   
   
3. Water-Soluble Markers
   For quick value studies or gestural sketches, water-soluble markers are a great pick. Use them for contour drawings, then add water to diffuse the lines for a painterly effect. Just keep in mind that markers come in limited colors and may dry out over time.
   
   
4. Watercolor Sticks
   If you’re all about convenience, watercolor sticks are your best friend. They’re essentially solid watercolor pigments shaped like chunky crayons. The American Journey Artists’ Watercolor Sticks are particularly brilliant—they’re highly pigmented, easy to use, and versatile. You can draw directly on dry or wet paper, layer colors, or pick up pigment with a water brush.

Pro Tips for Winter Journaling

1. Create a DIY Palette in Your Art Journals
   For ultra-portability, use watercolor sticks to make a dry palette directly in your journal. Apply pigment to a blank page, and tape a piece of acetate or wax paper nearby to mix your colors. This setup is perfect for snowy hikes or when you want to pack light.
   
   
2. Keep Your Kit Minimal
   Pack just the essentials: a compact watercolor set, a water brush or two, and your art journals. You’ll be ready to capture a masterpiece wherever inspiration strikes—whether it’s a frosty morning trail or a cozy café window.

Why Winter Journaling Is Worth It

With the right tools, you’ll discover that winter journaling isn’t just doable—it’s inspiring! Each sketch will bring you back to that exact moment in time, filling your journal with memories that photos simply can’t capture. Plus, you’ll keep your creative muscles active during a season when it’s easy to stay indoors.

So bundle up, pack your portable kit, and get ready to see winter in a whole new light. And don’t forget to shop our wide selection of sketchbooks and journal books. No excuses now—those snow-covered scenes aren’t going to paint themselves!