Journaling in a Circle

Creative journaling techniques are all the rage right now. The graphic style is really taking the scrapbooking industry by storm. It can be quite a daunting task to have to learn a photo-editing program to do your journaling on, so I’m going to provide you with some shortcuts so that journaling in a circular shape will never be easier!

Word-Processing Programs
I find that using a word-processing program is the easiest way to achieve journaling in a circle. I’m going to explain this process using Microsoft Word, but most word-processing programs should have a similar tool. The simplest way is to select the WordArt tool, which in my version is on the Format menu. Once selected, pick a style that you want your text to look like. After your style is chosen, a new box will open up and allow you to type all your journaling. Pick the correct size and font from this box. Once finished, click “okay” and your text will appear in your word document. Click once on your text to bring up the WordArt menu. From this menu, choose the WordArt shape option, which is the “ABC” icon in my version. This will allow you to choose from many different shapes for your journaling. Choose the circle for perfectly round text and click “okay.” Now you can stretch your journaling into the perfect circular shape for your layout.

Microsoft PowerPoint
Also try using Auto Shapes in PowerPoint for your journaling. You can choose from hundreds of different shapes for your journaling from this option. Choose the circle from the “flowcharts” section. This will allow you to insert a circle into your document. Make it as large as you need for your layout. Once your circle is drawn, double-click it to bring up the formatting box. Click on the Text Box tab from this box and make sure the “word wrap text in auto shape” box is checked off. This will make sure your journaling stays inside the circle rather than running outside. Now click “okay” on the formatting box. Click once inside your circular auto shape and begin typing your journaling. You should be able to make your circle smaller and larger by dragging the edges out and in.

Computer-Free
You don’t always need a computer to help you journal in a round shape. Use household items such as plates, saucers, cups, jars and CD’s to trace a circle onto your cardstock or patterned paper. Once you have the main circle traced, trace another smaller circle inside of it. Now cut out the circles and you have a perfect graphical guideline for your page. You can journal directly onto your circle or use it as a template to journal around it.

EK Success has recently released a group of circle punches in all different sizes that are perfect for round journaling blocks. Cut out a few different sizes and layer them over one another for a unique look to the regular square blocks.

The graphic style isn’t likely to fade out anytime soon. Expanding your horizons to include graphic elements can be fun and make your pages very professional looking! If you’re stumped for ideas, try picking out some circular graphic elements in magazine advertisements. You’re sure to find something there to spark your creativity.

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