Bible Journaling Ideas with Vellum: How-To Guide + Free Printable Overlays & Tips
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If you’re looking for fresh Bible journaling ideas that add visual beauty and meaning—without covering up the Scriptures—vellum is a creative and faith-filled solution. This translucent paper lets you layer prayers, verses, and art directly over the Word, preserving its visibility while enhancing its impact. Whether you’re new to journaling or a seasoned crafter, you’ll love exploring these Bible journaling ideas using vellum overlays to bring depth, intention, and worship into every page.
In this post, I’ll walk you through:
- How to use vellum paper in Bible journaling
- Creative ways to layer vellum over Scripture
- Tips for working with washi tape, stamps, stickers, and glue
- Step-by-step tutorials from my personal journaling time
- A free printable of 10 vellum overlays to get you started
- And how this all ties back to strengthening your practice of daily biblical affirmations
This isn’t about perfection. I’m currently going through medical treatment, and my hands are often shaky. Some of my pages aren’t tidy or gallery-worthy. But I’ve learned to see that as part of the beauty of Bible journaling—it’s worship, not performance. The goal is to engage with God’s Word and let His truth settle into your heart, one layer at a time.
Beginners’ FAQ Quick Guide
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Can I journal with vellum if I’m not artistic?
Yes, absolutely! Bible journaling with vellum is perfect for all skill levels—even if you don’t consider yourself artistic. You can print ready-made designs, use stickers, or simply layer vellum with handwritten prayers or Scriptures. It’s more about worship than perfection.
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Do I need a special printer?
No special printer is required, but it’s important to know what kind of printer you have. Inkjet printers work best with inkjet-safe vellum to avoid smudging, while laser printers need vellum that can withstand higher heat. Always let the ink dry completely before handling.
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What’s the easiest first vellum project?
The easiest way to start is by printing a Scripture verse or affirmation on vellum and taping it over a Bible page using washi tape. It adds a beautiful, layered look without needing paints or stamps—and you can do it in just a few minutes.
Why Vellum Makes a Beautiful Addition to Your Journaling Bible
Vellum is paper that whispers. It doesn’t overpower a page—it enhances it. When you overlay vellum onto Scripture, you’re not hiding God’s Word—you’re highlighting it with beauty, depth, and personal meaning.
And it’s more than just a crafting technique. It’s a way to meditate visually and emotionally on God’s truth. Think of it as layering daily biblical affirmations right into your Bible: “God is faithful,” “I am chosen,” “His grace is sufficient.” These become part of the very page you’re praying through.
Plus, vellum is beginner-friendly, budget-friendly, and so much fun. You can add quotes, prayers, stamped images, color, or keep it minimal—it’s up to you.
What Is Vellum and Why Use It in Bible Journaling?
Vellum is a smooth, semi-transparent paper available in both paper and cardstock weights. For Bible journaling, I recommend vellum paper because it’s thinner and easier to work with, especially when layering it in your Bible or planner.
It comes in standard 8.5×11 or 12×12 craft sizes. I personally use both, depending on which Bible I’m working in. It works well with all kinds of mediums, including:
- Stamps
- Alcohol-based markers
- Watercolor pencils
- Inkjet or laser printing
- Gelatos
- Stickers and embellishments
You can write your favorite verses on it, layer prayers, or add decorative elements without obscuring the Scripture underneath. It’s perfect for reinforcing daily biblical affirmations, giving visual power to truths you want to remember and repeat.
Step-by-Step: How to Use Vellum in Your Bible Journaling
Basic Supplies to Start
- Vellum paper (inkjet-safe or laser-safe depending on your printer)
- Paper trimmer or scissors (my go-to fine or fussy cutting scissors)
- Inkjet or laser printer
- Glue stick, glue dots, or washi tape
- Stamps, stickers, washi, gelatos, markers
How to Print on Vellum
- Use a “best quality” print setting.
- Let the ink dry fully before touching.
- Test on a blank sheet to check for smudging.
- Print your favorite verse or affirmation overlays.
Cutting and Gluing Tips
- Trim vellum just slightly smaller than the Bible page to avoid curling.
- While trimming your vellum, meditate on Isaiah 26:3 “The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace,
Because he trusts in You.“ - For glue, use minimal adhesive like:
- Glue dots (invisible + non-wrinkling)
- Dyary Glue Stick (my favorite!)
- Washi tape (for flaps and edges)
- Always apply glue sparingly and let the vellum lay flat to dry.
Vellum with Verse Overlay
This one was so fun and simple! I chose a Scripture—1 Chronicles 16:11: “Seek the Lord and His strength; Seek His face continually.”
This was so easy to do!
As you journal this overlay, declare Psalm 91:4 over your day
He will cover you with His pinions,
And under His wings you may take refuge;
His faithfulness is a shield and wall.
Step 1: Choose stamps and inks for your background
Step 2: Randomly stamp on your Bible page
Step 3: Add foam or vinyl stickers to the top of your vellum
Step 4: Adhere to Bible with washi tape
Here’s what I used:
- Stamps in 3 coordinating colors
- Vellum cut to fit my page
- Foam alphabet stickers
- Washi tape
I stamped my background directly in my Bible and laid a cut piece of vellum over it. I attached the vellum with a strip of washi and then added my foam alphabet verse on top. Done! The result was a soft, layered page with Scripture shining underneath and a declaration of truth right on top.
Creative Vellum Overlay Techniques for Faith Journalers
Once you’re comfortable with basic layering, here are more creative ways to work with vellum:
Transparent Overlays
Overlay vellum that’s been printed or hand-lettered with a favorite verse or daily affirmation. For example, print “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14) and layer it over the verse itself.
Fold-Outs and Tip-Ins
Fold vellum in half to create:
- Extra journaling space
- A prayer card inside your Bible
- A mini book-style page for notes or affirmations
Secure one edge with washi or tape runner.
Vellum with Printed Verse + Alcohol-Based Markers
For this, I worked in Matthew 6:26-27: “Look at the birds of the air…”
Step 1: Select your rubber stamp, archival ink and anything else you’d like to decorate your Bible journaling page with
Here’s what I used:
- Vellum
- Archival Ink Pad
- Alcohol-based markers
- My printer
- Heat gun (optional)
I stamped bird images on the back of the vellum, colored them with markers, and let them dry. Then I printed the Scripture over the top, cut out my elements, and adhered them to the page. The effect was soft and lovely—like the truth was floating above the page.
Vellum and Gelatos for a Rainbow Effect
In Genesis 9:16, God speaks of the rainbow as a sign of His covenant. I used this verse and:
- Gelatos in rainbow colors
- Baby wipes (to blend)
- My favorite journaling pen
- Vellum trimmed to fit the ESV journaling Bible
Step 1: Add lines of color with gelatos to the back side of vellum (either side, but so that you know that you are working on the reverse side right now)
Step 2: Using a gentle baby wipe, smooth the gelato colors one at a time
Step 3: Let dry completely (you can lightly use a heat gun to speed up this process)
Step 4: Write your verse or journaling on top of the vellum. I added a cloud with white and black paint markers.
Step 5: Using a glue stick at the very edge of your vellum, adhere it to the journaling Bible
I colored the back of the vellum with gelatos, blended it with a baby wipe, and dried it with a heat gun. I wrote the verse directly on the front and outlined my rainbow and clouds. It’s vibrant, faith-filled, and so fun.
Using Vellum with Washi Tape, Stickers & Embellishments
Pairing Washi Tape with Vellum
Washi tape is perfect for:
- Anchoring vellum flaps
- Decorating the edges of vellum overlays
- Creating color themes or borders
I especially love faith-themed washi from Dayspring with crosses, Scripture words, or floral patterns.
Adding Stamps and Stickers
You can:
- Stamp images directly onto vellum (let it dry!)
- Use clear or dimensional stickers
- Add die-cuts or ephemera to create layers
Just make sure the background is simple so your verse or affirmation still stands out.
Free Printable: Vellum Quote Overlays for Your Bible
To help you get started, I’ve created a set of 10 printable vellum overlays you can use immediately.
These include:
- Daily biblical affirmations
- Encouraging Scriptures
- Simple prayer prompts
To use them:
- Download the PDF
- Print on inkjet-safe vellum
- Trim, glue, or tape into your Bible or journal
Tips for Gluing and Securing Vellum in Your Journaling Bible
Best Adhesives:
- Glue dots: No bubbling, invisible
- Washi tape: Easy to reposition
- Dyary glue stick: Works like a charm!
What to Avoid:
- Wet glue (wrinkles the paper)
- Glue across the entire sheet (causes buckling)
- Pressing too hard (creases delicate vellum)
For best results, adhere only at the edge or corners, and always smooth gently.
Real-Life Examples: Vellum Pages That Inspire Worship
Here are a few examples from my own journaling time that helped me connect with God through creativity:
- A page with Psalm 34:18 (“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted…”) where I layered a vellum quote over stamped teardrops—a reminder that I’m not alone in sorrow.
- A rainbow-themed Genesis page using gelatos and vellum—bright, childlike joy expressed during a week that was anything but easy.
- A simple affirmation overlay: “I am not forgotten” (Isaiah 49:15) that I come back to often when my body is tired and my spirit is worn.
None of them are perfect. Some are shaky. But each one is honest. And each one is worship.
My Final Thoughts
Bible journaling with vellum is such a powerful, personal way to engage with Scripture. It lets you bring beauty, honesty, and emotion into the pages where God speaks to your heart. Whether you’re layering a prayer, writing out daily biblical affirmations, or just adding some color to reflect your mood—you’re worshiping.
Start simple. Try one idea today. Your pages don’t have to be perfect—they just have to be real.
And if your hands are shaky or your ink smudges, friend… that’s OK.
He sees every layer.
And He loves every part of your process.
FAQs About Bible Journaling with Vellum
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Can I print on vellum at home?
Yes, you can print on vellum at home using either an inkjet or laser printer. Be sure to choose vellum that is compatible with your specific printer type to avoid smudging or paper jams.
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What glue works best for vellum in Bible journaling?
The best adhesives for vellum are glue dots, a high-quality glue stick like the Ranger Dyan Reavenly brand, or washi tape. These options help prevent bubbling and wrinkling while keeping your vellum secure.
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How do I keep vellum from wrinkling or warping?
To avoid wrinkling, use minimal adhesive and avoid wet glues. Let printed vellum dry fully before handling, and apply glue only to small areas such as the corners or edges.
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Can I use stamps and ink on vellum?
Yes, vellum takes stamping well, especially when using pigment or archival inks. Allow stamped images to dry thoroughly or use a heat tool to speed up the drying process.
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Sue Nelson is a Christian author, Bible teacher, and conference speaker with a heart for helping women grow deeper in their walk with God. She has written several books on Christian marriage, Proverbs 31 living, verse mapping, and the Twelve Tribes of Israel. Her Bible studies and devotional tools are used by women’s ministries across the United States.
With years of experience teaching Scripture and leading small groups, Sue has spoken at numerous women’s conferences and retreats nationwide. She actively serves in multiple ministries at her home church—including Hospitality, Welcome PSG Corp, and Leaders of the Pack—and is known for her willingness to serve wherever there’s a need.
A wife, mom, grandmother, and proud dog/cat mom, Sue lives a life centered on Christ. She supports a wide range of Christian causes, including Bible distribution, scholarships for faith-based retreats, homeless outreach, food pantries, and clothing ministries.
You can connect with her through her women’s Bible study community, She Opens Her Bible
NASB – “Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation“