Choosing the right sketchbook can make a big difference in how often you draw, how free you feel to experiment, and how your materials perform on the page. Not all sketchbooks are created equal, some are better for ink, others for watercolor, and some are perfect for carrying everywhere. Here are five of the best sketchbooks I’ve used, and why each one has earned a place on my shelf (and in my bag).
1. Moleskine Art Sketchbook
A classic for a reason. Moleskine’s sketchbooks have smooth, heavyweight paper that handles pencil, ink, and light washes well. The hardcover makes it portable and durable, and the elastic band keeps everything secure. It’s not ideal for heavy media like watercolor or oil, but it’s perfect for everyday sketching and ideation.
2. Stillman & Birn Beta Series
If you want to paint in your sketchbook, this one’s for you. The Beta Series has 270 gsm cold-press paper that takes watercolor beautifully without buckling. It’s also great for gouache, markers, and mixed media. Available in hardcover or softcover, spiral or stitched, it’s a workhorse for any serious sketcher.
3. Strathmore 400 Series Sketchbook
This is an affordable, accessible option with solid performance. The paper has just enough texture for pencil and pen work, and it’s great for gesture drawing, figure study, or daily warm-ups. It’s not meant for wet media, but it’s excellent for volume sketching without worrying about cost.
4. Hahnemühle Nostalgie Sketchbook
This one has ultra-smooth, bright white paper that’s fantastic for fine liners, technical pens, and graphite. It’s also compatible with markers and light washes. It has a minimal, elegant aesthetic and lies flat, making it a pleasure to use in the studio or on location.
5. Pentalic Traveler Pocket Sketchbook
For sketching on the go, this one is hard to beat. Compact, with a durable cover and elastic closure, it fits in a bag or jacket pocket easily. The paper holds up well to pencil, pen, and even light ink washes. It’s a great companion for urban sketching or travel journaling.
Mini Tutorial: How to Prime Your Sketchbook Pages for Heavier Paint Techniques
If you want to use acrylics, heavy gouache, or oils in a sketchbook not built for them, you can prepare the pages with gesso to give them more strength and absorbency. Here’s how:
Clip or tape your sketchbook open so the page lies flat.
Apply a thin, even coat of acrylic gesso with a wide flat brush or foam brush.
Let it dry completely (usually 10–15 minutes).
Optionally, add a second coat for extra strength.
Once dry, lightly sand with a fine-grit sandpaper if you want a smoother surface.
This helps prevent buckling and improves paint adhesion, letting you treat your sketchbook like a mini canvas.
Ultimately, the best sketchbook is the one you actually use. Whether you prefer texture or smoothness, portability or space, there’s a sketchbook out there that fits your process. Try a few, see what suits you, and most importantly, keep drawing.
#Sketchbooks #ArtTools #DrawingGear #ArtSupplies #TraditionalArt #SimonLocheArt
