How to Create a BuJo Style Planner Layout in Adobe InDesign 📝

How to Make a BuJo Style Planner Layout | Beginner Tutorial 2025 (EASY Weekly Spread)

Creating a planner layout can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when using Adobe InDesign. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of designing a BuJo style planner layout, specifically a weekly spread. Whether you're looking to create planners for personal use or to sell online, this tutorial will cover everything you need to know.

Step 1: Decide on Your Paper Size 📏

The first step in creating your planner is to choose the right paper size. For this tutorial, we will focus on the popular A5 size, which is user-friendly and widely accepted. While some may prefer a larger B5 size for its spaciousness, A5 is a great choice for beginners. If your audience has specific preferences, consider their needs as well.

Once you've decided on the size, open Adobe InDesign. Go to File > New > Document. Select Print and then choose A5 from the list of presets. Click Create to set up your document.

Step 2: Setting Up the Document in InDesign 🖥️

With your A5 document open, it’s time to set up the layout. InDesign allows you to create parent pages, which are essential for consistent designs across your planner. To create a parent page:

• Navigate to the Pages panel.

• Click on New Parent Page.

• Double-click the parent page thumbnail to make it active.

For a BuJo style, we will create a dot grid layout. The dot grid is a hallmark of bullet journals, providing a subtle guide for writing and drawing.

Step 3: Creating Your Dot Grid ⚪

To create the dot grid, use the Ellipse Tool. Hold down the Shift key while drawing to maintain a perfect circle. Make the dot small and change its color to a light gray. This ensures that the dots are visible but not overwhelming.

Next, select the dot and go to Edit > Step and Repeat. Choose to create a grid and adjust the settings for the number of dots horizontally and vertically. Preview your grid, then click OK to create the full dot grid layout.

Step 4: Adding Pages to Your Document 📄

Now that your parent page is set up, it’s time to add pages to your document. For a weekly spread, you’ll need a two-page layout. To add pages:

• In the Pages panel, click the New Page icon.

• Add two pages to create a spread.

It’s generally a good idea for planners to have around 176 pages in total, which provides a substantial feel for the user. This number allows for both the weekly spreads and additional pages for notes, goals, or reflections.

Step 5: Designing the Weekly Spread 📅

With your pages in place, it’s time to design the weekly spread. Start by using the Rectangle Tool to create boxes for each day of the week. You can arrange these boxes on the left and right pages, adjusting their sizes to fit your layout. Remember to use a black outline and no fill for these boxes to allow the dot grid to show through.

Once you have the boxes for Monday through Sunday, select them and use the Align options to distribute them evenly across the page. This will give your layout a clean and organized look.

Step 6: Adding Text to Your Planner 🖊️

Now that your boxes are set, it’s time to add the text. Use the Type Tool to create text boxes for each day. Center the text and format it to your liking. You can add dates and even special events to make it more personalized.

For example, you might type "Monday, January 27th" in a larger font size at the top of the Monday box. Make sure the text contrasts well with the background for readability.

Step 7: Styling Your Planner Layout 🎨

Adding stylistic elements can enhance the overall feel of your planner. Consider rounding the corners of your boxes for a softer look or adding decorative elements like icons or illustrations. You can also use different fonts to differentiate between days and notes.

Remember, the goal is to make your planner visually appealing while remaining functional. Use consistent styling for all text and design elements to create a cohesive look.

Step 8: Designing the Bottom Section 🗒️

At the bottom of your pages, you might want to include sections for notes, reminders, or habits to track. Use the Rectangle Tool again to create these boxes. You can label them with text like "Notes" or "Reminders" to guide the user.

Feel free to customize the layout based on your preferences. You can create one large box for notes or split it into smaller sections for various categories.

Step 9: Finalizing Your Planner Layout ✔️

Once you’re satisfied with your design, it’s time to finalize everything. Review your pages to ensure all elements are aligned and look good together. Save your document and export it as a PDF to share or print your planner.

Step 10: Testing and Adjusting Your Design 🔍

Before officially launching your planner, test it out. Print a copy and see how it feels. Make adjustments as needed to improve usability or aesthetics. Sometimes seeing the design in physical form can highlight areas for improvement that you might not notice on screen.

If you’re looking to sell your planner, consider creating mockups to showcase your designs on platforms like Etsy. This can help attract potential buyers.

Conclusion: Start Creating Your Planner Today! 🎉

Now you have all the steps to create your very own BuJo style planner layout in Adobe InDesign. Whether you’re designing for personal use or planning to sell your creations, this guide provides a solid foundation to get started. If you're interested in more advanced techniques, check out the FREEBIE | InDesign 101 course for more insights into Adobe InDesign.

Happy planning, and remember to let your creativity shine through every page!