My Essential Toolkit for Visual Thinkers
My bullet jounal and most dear markers and tools to take visual notes are this :)
When it comes to effective visual thinking, being comfortable with your tools can make all the difference. Whether you’re sketching ideas in a notebook or creating large-scale visuals for a workshop, having reliable materials is key. Below, you’ll find curated recommendations for small and large formats, featuring high-quality options to enhance your creative process.
This article is just my recommendations and personal preferences based in my practice, so do not take it too serious, but maybe it helps you to discover something to unleash your visual super powers!
“I looooove Neuland Markers,
can not recommend them more!”
Why? Because they are refillable, grat quality inks, eco-friendly designs, and professional-grade quality, Neuland is perfect for workshops, graphic recording, and large-scale projects. I you want to love your materials, get some Neuland markers!
Whether you’re sketching quick ideas or facilitating a workshop, these tools will help bring your visuals to life. Ready to upgrade your toolkit? Let us know which materials you love to use!
Markers for Visual Notes:
Small Format Drawings:
If you are working on your notebook, bullet planner, or just in paper, here are my most dear recommendations:
Gentleman among Outliners – with a round nib and deep black, water-based permanent ink.
You can not bealive how amazing this pen is, is one of my favorites. The creative allrounder among fine markers, the expert for illustrations, hand lettering and bullet journaling. Available in many vibrant colors.
Simple, smooth, and just work. I always keep one in my pencil case. Ideal for clean lines, small notes, or quick sketches. Bonus: they’re refillable!
Tombow N15 Brush Markers (for Calligraphy and Art):
A classic black brush pen with a flexible tip—perfect for calligraphy, expressive lettering, or bold outlines. If you like flow, you’ll love this one.
Shading and Color Accents:
Soft, subtle, and perfect for adding dimension. I use this one all the time to add depth to diagrams and notes.
These light tones are beautiful for layering and soft shading. I use them when I want to keep things airy, gentle, and full of nuance.
Markers for Graphic Recording
Large Format Drawings:
When working on large formats, precision and versatility are essential. Neuland, a German brand specializing in professional, refillable markers, offers the perfect tools for the job. With vibrant colors, interchangeable nibs, and refillable ink, these markers are a must-have for graphic recording.
Visual Facilitation Kit
Ideal for workshops, flipcharts, and big paper facilitation.
Flipchart Essentials:
Your visuals need space to breathe! Go for flipchart paper that’s bleed-proof and strong enough to handle layers of ink. My go-to is anything thick, white, and friendly to markers.
Black Markers for Outlines and Text
Titles:
Bold and unapologetic. This is the marker for big titles and standout outlines in workshops. Deep black, no bleeding. I love using it on flipcharts!
Your go-to for solid lines and clear text. It’s precise but still bold enough for main ideas. Super reliable and easy to refill.
Need a bit more expression in your lines? This one gives you variation and flow—perfect for dynamic lettering or adding a personal touch to titles.
Fine Details and Text:
This little one is perfect for tiny notes, details, and clean outlines. A must-have in my pencil case. It doesn’t bleed, and it just behaves so well.
Shading and Colors:
Gray: Code 101
My secret weapon for shadows. Just enough contrast to make things pop without stealing the show. Great for adding depth to icons and layouts.
Color Options:
Soothing and bright—great for highlights, soft shadows, or visual links. I use it a lot when I want to keep things calm and clear.
Cheerful and energetic. I use this one to mark ideas I want to come back to, or to add a happy spark to the page.
Fresh and balanced. Ideal for flows, connectors, or highlighting ideas about nature, growth, or calm energy.
Strong and expressive. Use it with care to emphasize key points or bring contrast where it matters. A little goes a long way!
Refills and Spare Parts:
Keep your favorites going! Refillable is the way to go—eco-friendly and practical. I always keep an extra bottle around.
Fresh colors when you need them. These refills keep your creative flow uninterrupted and your markers ready.
Mistakes? No problem!
Whether you’re sketching quick ideas or facilitating a workshop, these tools will help bring your visuals to life. Ready to upgrade your toolkit? Let us know in the comments which materials you love to use!
Ready to upgrade your toolkit? Let me know in comments what are you favourite materials and if you enjoyed any of these!
