A few month have been gone since DeviantART added the feature that allowed subscribed members to use CSS for journals. That opened a huge field of possibilities to customize our journal pages. But only some of us are familiar with the programming language CSS. So there are only two ways to get a nice journal look anyway: Either you learn to code CSS or you use a CSS template.

I want to help you to find a suitable CSS template for your journal!

I reviewed the journal CSS galleries and compiled a list of functional and good looking journal layouts for you. Let’s start with the classics:


1. BasiCSS by =Zikes



This was the first useful CSS template on DA featuring a basic layout back in September last year. It might be still recommendable for beginners who wish to have a clearly arranged journal.


2. Classy styles from =ipholio



Ipholio has done several layouts for other deviants but also these two elegant and sleek templates in DAv5 and Wikipedia style. He is an advanced skinner.


3. Official dA v5 journal CSS by =33xiT



This is the only template that this deviant has done but be careful it is a very complex one! It looks exactly like a DeviantART page with all the little details in. Wow! It’s very clever coded but I can recommend this to advanced CSS users only!


4. Free CSS Journal: DA Style by *Nicasus



This template is one of the newest here and it supports a simple and clean DA style.


5. Designs by *ginkgografix



Two grey templates, very elegant and clean.


6. Feathers CSS by =forevergeek



A newer submission also in grey with a soft touch.


7. Templates by =karemelancholia



She is one of the pioneers on DA who provides layouts since the beginning. Her templates are quite simple and easy to use. Lately she moved all her resources to her new Stock Account. Have a look at her goodies!


If you like it some more fancy here we go:


8. The legendary layouts from ¢Mynti



Her wonderful layouts have been used all around DA, she has done a great contribution with her work to support this community. Check her Scraps to see all her templates.


9. Layouts by ^kuschelirmel



Her templates are clearly structured and theme-oriented. She also provides a lot of other useful resources. Check out her Stock Account to see all her works.


10. =littledeviltoo’s varied CSS gallery



In fact she is known as fractal artist but newly she walkes among the CSS designers, too. Her layouts are simple but also very inventive. Lenora only provides templates since a few weeks but she already has a considerable collection! Check the Journal CSS Section of her gallery!


11. Journals by =bewarecalamity




Have a look at this nifty CSS stuff!


12. Fresh styles by *mj-coffeeholick



You like it colorful? Then these stylish templates from Cris may be right for you. Go and watch all CSS templates in her Gallery.


13. Journals by *lockjavv



His layouts are mostly based on my codes. He built up a very nice Gallery of colorful and trendy CSS templates and there is more to come!


14. Special Feature: *AnnaKirsten



I proudly present you the CSS art of AnnaKirsten! She walks among us CSS designer since a very short time and she is learning fast. If you like dreamy romantic styles and soft colors don’t miss her templates!


15. In the end also some journal templates made by me




Note: If you want to get one of the designs go to the deviation and click the download button. Usually there should be instructions in the zip-file.


I hope you enjoyed my little journey through the world of CSS and I was able to help you finding a suitable journal style!





You didn't find answers among these works?

• Among my CSS designs is one you can win as your personal journal in my current contest. How about this?
  
  
  
  Check my journal if you like it and vote for it in my Poll!


• There is a designer group where you can win personal CSS designs in little competitions. -->=StealThisCSS

You prefer to learn CSS yourself anyway but you can't find a suitable tutorial?

• First check this list (tutorials for beginners): [link] | [link] | [link]


• If you would appreciate it when I compile a tutorial based on my works please cast your vote on my CSS Tutorial Poll!