One of my favorite parts of bullet journaling is creating fun, simple headers. They make a page instantly feel more polished, without taking forever or requiring a million supplies.
In this post, I’m showing you 10 super easy bullet journal header ideas – all using just three tools:
Supplies Used
- A fine liner (I used a 02 Micron)
- A brush pen (I used a Tombow Fudenosuke)
- A highlighter (I used a purple MildLiner)
Rather watch than read? Check out the full video by clicking the video below!
Let’s Get Started!
Before we dive in, let me just say this: Your handwriting does not have to look like mine. Use your own style! That’s what makes your bullet journal personal and unique.
Buuuuut if you want to grab a printable reference guide with all of these styles, I’ve added it to the resource library in my Patreon community.
Header 1: Block + Script Combo
Start with bold block letters in marker or highlighter, then layer a smaller script-style word (or faux calligraphy) on top. Instant contrast, super simple.
Header 2: Split Block
Same block lettering, but leave a blank gap through the middle. You can mask it with washi tape if you’re working larger. Write script lettering inside the gap for a sleek, modern look.
Header 3: Drop-Shadow Box
Draw a simple box around your header, then use a highlighter to add a shadow along the right and bottom edges. It’s minimal effort for maximum effect.Variation 3.5: Try the same idea with a banner instead of a box – shadows look amazing here too.
Header 4: Classic Banner
If you like your titles flowing off the edge of the page, a banner is perfect. Keep it simple or fill in with color for extra impact. (If banners feel intimidating, I have full beginner banner tutorials you can peek at anytime.)
Header 5: Ribbon-Style Banner
A twist on the classic – this one looks like folded ribbon. Add tiny detail lines for dimension. It looks complicated but is actually really easy once you get the hang of it.
Header 6: Offset Sketchy Lettering
Write your word in big block letters, then add a sketchy “offset” outline around them. The beauty of this style is that it’s meant to look imperfect.
Header 7: Brush Lettering + Shadow
If you’re comfortable with a brush pen, keep it classic: a simple brush calligraphy header. To make it pop, add a highlighter drop shadow underneath.
Header 8: Checkerboard Backdrop
Draw a quick checkerboard pattern (dot grid notebooks make this easy!) and layer your header lettering over top – block letters, script, whatever you like. It’s bold but fun.
Header 9: Bunting Flags
Draw a string of little flags (also called bunting), one for each letter of your word. It adds instant playfulness to your page and looks adorable in weekly spreads.
Header 10: Shadow Pop
Write your word spaced out in simple uppercase letters, then add a highlighter shadow behind it. It’s quick, minimal, and makes the word jump off the page.
That’s a Wrap!
And there you go – 10 super easy header styles you can use in your bullet journal with just a few tools.
Remember:
- None of these have to be perfect
- Your own handwriting is more than good enough
- And the little details (drop shadows, flags, banners) are what make them shine
If you’d like a printable template with all ten headers to trace or reference, it’s available in my Patreon resource library.
Now it’s your turn – grab a pen, pick a style, and try one out in your next journal spread.
And finally, your dad joke…
I gave away all my dead batteries today…
Free of charge.
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