Choosing The Right Sketchbook📚✨ (Patreon)

Hey, guys! I often receive questions from you about how to choose the right sketchbook, and today I'd like to share a few of my tips.

Some people just grab any sketchbook without thinking twice, but for the rest of us (hey there!)🤗, finding the right one can be a bit tricky. I remember spending a long time in the store, looking at all the notebooks, touching and sniffing them—trying to find the one with the perfect paper. Then, I'd walk around the store and always end up back in the notebook section.

But how do you pick the perfect sketchbook on your first try? You know, the one that fits your style, feels good every time you use it, and doesn't just sit there collecting dust? Let's break it down step by step, looking at what you should pay attention to when choosing your first sketchbook.

Rule #1 - 180 Degrees:

Every sketchbook should be securely stitched and open up to 180 degrees. Drawing in a sketchbook with a glued spine, like a magazine's binding, can be uncomfortable—trying to open it to 180 degrees can break the spine, and the pages may fall out. Pay attention to this aspect to avoid disappointment after purchase; it's not always possible to check in the store as sketchbooks are usually wrapped in plastic.

Sometimes, a stitched or stapled notebook may also not open up to 180 degrees. Try to bend it back in the opposite direction, and it will become more flexible.

Rule #2 - Picking Paper:

Some folks avoid starting a new sketchbook because they're scared of messing it up. They think the paper inside is too fancy. But you deserve to enjoy awesome paper right now! Feel the excitement of creating with a brand-new sketchbook. Sure, it sets the bar higher; you draw more thoughtfully, finish your work, and worry about messing up more than before.

For my marker sketches, I love paper that is perfectly white, it also has to be thick enough with a smooth texture, and for my ink sketches, I prefer thin ivory paper. It's smooth and tinted, letting my pens glide easily, and it adds some tone to my sketches. I talk more in depth about my favorite paper in this video link.

Rule #3 - Size Matters:

Think about the size of the sketchbook based on what you want to do with it. If you're planning big drawings, go for a larger size like A4. If you just need something for everyday notes and doodles, a smaller size like A5 might be better. There are even smaller ones, like A6, which can fit in your pocket.

Rule #4 - Judging by the Cover:

The cover is essential too. Pick one that feels good in your hands. Some people prefer fancy covers, while others like them simple. It's entirely up to you. You might want to decorate it with stickers or keep it clean and simple.

Choosing a sketchbook might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but just go with what feels right for you. Whether you like big ones or small ones, fancy covers or plain ones, the perfect sketchbook is the one that makes you excited to create in it!

Rule #5 - Extra Goodies:

Don't stop at just getting a cool sketchbook—think about extras that can make it even better and turn it into a personalized journal. For example, adding a leather cover and other extras like stationery clips (they help keep your sketchbook open if the paper is thick), stickers, and colorful tape can jazz up your sketchbook. There are stickers for marking pages or even ones you can write on. Decorative tape is great for sticking on photos or ticket stubs. Pen holders, cute clips, and more can be found in stationery stores.

Here's a tip: go easy on the extras. Get a few new things at a time. If you try everything all at once, you might get overwhelmed. Now that you've got the tips on picking your first sketchbook, head to an art store and grab a good one, plus some colorful tape and stickers to decorate it right away!

Start writing and drawing in it right from the beginning. Try to do it every day, even if it's just a little bit. To overcome the fear of a blank page, just write or draw whatever comes to mind, enjoying every letter and stroke. It's a great way to clear your head and get better at drawing.

Here's another tip: I often skip the first page and start drawing from the second one. This way, I know I won’t mess up the front page of my sketchbook, and I can always go back and draw whenever I feel more confident. Good luck!🤗

✨📔Feel free to share your stories about picking your sketchbook in the comments.