Sketching is one of the most accessible and versatile forms of creative expression. Whether you’re a professional artist or a beginner, a high-quality notebook is an essential tool for capturing your ideas and bringing them to life. The best notebook for sketching should provide a smooth, durable surface that can handle a variety of media, from pencil to ink to watercolor.
When choosing a notebook for sketching, there are several critical factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to look for a notebook with high-quality paper that can handle your preferred media without bleeding, smudging, or warping. The size and format of the notebook are also essential, as you’ll want to choose a size that fits comfortably in your bag or on your desk and a format that suits your sketching style.
Another important consideration is the binding of the notebook. Spiral-bound notebooks are popular among artists because they allow you to flip the pages over and work on both sides of the paper. However, some artists prefer notebooks with a sewn binding, which allows the notebook to lie flat and provides a more durable binding.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best notebooks for sketching on the market and help you find the perfect notebook for your creative needs.
Best Notebooks for Sketching
If you’re an artist or designer, having a reliable notebook for sketching is essential. Whether you’re looking for a notebook with heavyweight paper, a hardcover for durability, or a compact size for on-the-go sketching, we’ve got you covered. In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the best notebooks for sketching that will help bring your creative ideas to life.
BGJRBY Sketch Book
If you are looking for a high-quality sketchbook, then the BGJRBY Sketch Book is a great option for you.
Pros
- The paper is 100gsm 68lb fine textured bright paper, which is perfect for all artistic drawings and sketches with dry media including pencil, pen, pastels, charcoal, sketching sticks, and more.
- The built-in drawing board is a unique design that saves you from having to buy a separate drawing board.
- The larger page size, more paper, and heftier drawing paper make it ideal for field art and travel.
Cons
- The paper is unlined, which may not be suitable for those who prefer ruled paper.
- The pages are not perforated, which may make it difficult to tear out a page cleanly.
- The paper is thin, which may not be ideal for wet media such as watercolors.
This sketchbook comes in a pack of two and is a proper size of 29cm x 22cm/ 8.5×11-Inch, with 200 pages/ 100 sheets in each book. The hardbound textured, black, slick-smooth, and waterproof cover helps protect your artwork. The paper is acid-free and unbleached, making it perfect for long-term preservation.
In summary, if you are looking for a sketchbook that is perfect for dry media, has a unique built-in drawing board, and is ideal for field art and travel, then the BGJRBY Sketch Book is definitely worth considering.
MEMX Sketch Book
If you’re an artist, illustrator, designer, or doodler, the MEMX Sketch Book is a great option for your sketching needs.
Pros
- Acid-free paper prevents yellowing over time and ensures a fresh surface every time you sketch.
- Spiral binding allows for easy flipping of pages and easy removal for framing or displaying.
- Top quality 110GSM sketch paper is suitable for a range of dry media.
Cons
- Some may find the 5.5″ x 8.5″ size too small for their needs.
- The plastic waterproof hard cover may not be as durable as some would like.
- Some reviewers have reported issues with the binding coming apart.
This sketch book is perfect for artists who prefer a smaller size and want a durable, acid-free paper that won’t yellow over time. The spiral binding makes it easy to flip through pages and remove them for framing or displaying. The 110GSM sketch paper is of top quality and suitable for a range of dry media. However, some may find the size too small for their needs, and the plastic waterproof cover may not be as durable as some would like. Additionally, some reviewers have reported issues with the binding coming apart. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable sketch book for your dry media needs, the MEMX Sketch Book is a great option to consider.
BGJRBY Sketch Book
If you are looking for a sketch book that can serve as a keepsake, the BGJRBY Sketch Book is a great option.
Pros
- The high-quality paper is perfect for all artistic drawings and sketches, including dry media such as pencil, pen, pastels, charcoal, and sketching sticks.
- The built-in drawing board eliminates the need for a separate drawing board, making it easy to draw.
- The larger page size, heftier drawing paper, and spiral binding make it ideal for field art and travel.
Cons
- The paper is not thick enough for professional artists.
- The cover is not very sturdy and may not protect the artwork well.
- The paper is not acid-free, which may cause it to yellow over time.
The BGJRBY Sketch Book is a great option if you are looking for a sketch book that can serve as a keepsake. The high-quality paper is perfect for all artistic drawings and sketches, and the built-in drawing board eliminates the need for a separate drawing board. The larger page size, heftier drawing paper, and spiral binding make it ideal for field art and travel. However, the paper is not thick enough for professional artists, the cover is not very sturdy, and the paper is not acid-free, which may cause it to yellow over time.
BOOMLONGDA Sketch Book
If you’re an artist, illustrator, or designer in search of a reliable sketchbook, the BOOMLONGDA Sketch Book might be worth considering.
Pros
- The top spiral design makes it user-friendly for both left and right-handed individuals.
- The 110GSM sketch paper is of top quality and ideal for various dry pens like oily color pencils, charcoal, and sketching sticks.
- The heavy chipboard backing provides good support for writing and drawing, making it perfect for use as a travel journal, diary, poetry work, study notes, mood diary, scrapbooks, and more.
Cons
- The covers are thin, which may not provide the best protection for the pages inside.
- The color of the cover may differ slightly from the product images.
- The sketchbook may not be suitable for use with wet media like watercolors.
This sketchbook features acid-free paper with a slick-smooth finish that is perfect for drawing, painting, sketching, or doodling. The 100-page (50-sheet) sketchbook is spiral-bound, making it easy to flip through pages and work on any surface.
The BOOMLONGDA Sketch Book is a great option for artists looking for a high-quality sketchbook that is easy to use and versatile. The heavy chipboard backing provides the perfect support for writing and drawing, while the top-quality paper ensures that your artwork will look great every time. Overall, this sketchbook is worth considering if you’re looking for a reliable and user-friendly sketchbook.
Soucolor Sketch Book
If you’re looking for an affordable sketchbook that delivers excellent quality, the Soucolor Sketch Book is a great choice.
Pros
- The paper quality is premium and acid-free, making it ideal for all types of dry media.
- The top spiral binding makes it easy to use for both left-handed and right-handed people.
- Every page is micro-perforated, allowing you to remove single pages with ease.
Cons
- This sketchbook is not suitable for use with alcohol markers and watercolor pens.
- The cover is a little flimsy and thin, which may not provide enough protection for the paper.
- Some users have reported that the pages are not as thick as they would like.
The Soucolor Sketch Book is a great choice for artists of all skill levels. The paper quality is excellent, and it’s suitable for use with a wide range of dry media. The top spiral binding makes it easy to use, and the micro-perforated pages allow you to remove single pages with ease.
One of the biggest advantages of this sketchbook is its premium paper quality. The acid-free paper is PH neutral and has a standard-weight of 68lb/100gram, which is thicker and better than similar sketchbooks from other brands. This prevents bleeding, smudging, and feathering, ensuring that your artwork looks great for years to come.
Another advantage is the top spiral binding, which is nice and friendly for both left-handed and right-handed people. The sketchbook lays flat when opened, and the pages are easy to turn, making it easy to work on your art. The micro-perforated pages allow you to remove single pages with ease, which is great if you want to frame or display your artwork.
However, there are a few downsides to consider. Firstly, this sketchbook is not suitable for use with alcohol markers and watercolor pens, which may limit its versatility. Secondly, the cover is a little flimsy and thin, which may not provide enough protection for the paper. Finally, some users have reported that the pages are not as thick as they would like, which may affect the quality of their artwork.
Overall, the Soucolor Sketch Book is an excellent choice for artists who are looking for an affordable sketchbook that delivers excellent quality. It’s suitable for all types of dry media, and the top spiral binding and micro-perforated pages make it easy to use. If you’re looking for a reliable sketchbook that won’t break the bank, this is definitely worth considering.
Artisto Sketch Book Set
If you’re looking for a sketchbook that’s perfect for artists of all levels, the Artisto Sketch Book Set is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Enjoy premium paper quality at an affordable price.
- Works great with all dry media.
- Spiral-bound design makes it easy to turn pages.
Cons
- Pages may have a slight greyish tone.
- Some customers received bent or torn books.
- May not be the absolute best paper quality available.
The Artisto Sketch Book Set offers 200 sheets of bright white sketch paper with the perfect texture for drawing, sketching, and illustrating. You’ll appreciate how color, absorbency, texture, weight, and size contribute to help you create different artistic effects.
Whether you’re a veteran or novice artist, you’re sure to find the right sketchbook for your needs. This set of sketchbooks works excellently with all dry media including pen, pencil, charcoal, pastels, crayons, and sketching sticks. Each sheet measures 9×12 inches and is acid-free (pH neutral) paper, 68lb./100gsm.
The spiral-bound design makes it easy to turn pages, and every page is micro-perforated, allowing you to easily remove single pages as and when required. If your product does not perform to your expectations, just let Artisto know, and they will send you a free replacement or refund you.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a sketchbook that offers premium paper quality at an affordable price, the Artisto Sketch Book Set is an excellent choice. While there may be better options available, this sketchbook is still a high-grade paper that’s perfect for all artists.
InkJoyful Sketch Book
If you’re looking for a sketchbook that offers superior paper quality and durability, the InkJoyful Sketch Book is a great choice.
Pros
- The 120gsm paper provides a smooth drawing experience and can withstand vigorous erasing and reworking.
- The twin-ring binding ensures seamless flipping, allowing for an uninterrupted flow of creativity.
- The 9 x 12 inch size makes it a portable option for artists on-the-go.
Cons
- The paper may not be suitable for markers and watercolors, as it may cause bleeding.
- The sketchbook only comes in one color scheme (gray and yellow).
- The product is relatively new on the market, so there may not be as many reviews or ratings available yet.
This twin-pack features two high-quality 12″ x 9″ sketchbooks, each with 100 sheets of thick, acid-free 120gsm paper. Perfect for pencils, charcoal, watercolor, and markers, these sketchbooks offer a smooth drawing experience for any art style. The top spiral binding ensures easy page flipping for both left- and right-handed artists. Whether you’re sketching on the go, developing detailed drawings, or simply capturing ideas, this two-pack is perfect for both beginners and seasoned artists.
The InkJoyful Sketch Book is made with acid-free paper that ensures your artwork endures over time. This high-quality material preserves the vibrancy and clarity of your work, making each sketchbook the perfect choice for artists focused on the longevity of their creations or for those looking to gift a piece of lasting art. Catering to artists of all skill levels, this versatile sketchbook adapts to a range of drawing styles and techniques.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a sketchbook that offers a superior drawing experience and durability, the InkJoyful Sketch Book is a great option to consider. With its optimized binding and portable convenience, it’s a perfect travel companion for capturing inspiration on-the-go.
Ankkol Sketch Book 9×12 Inch Artist Sketch Pad
If you’re looking for a high-quality sketchbook for drawing, you might want to consider the Ankkol Sketch Book.
Pros
- The spiral bound design at the top of the sketchbook makes it convenient to use and ensures that both of your hands won’t be affected by the spiral bound when you’re drawing.
- The robust 68lb/100gsm drawing paper is made of ACID-free material, providing a smooth drawing experience while ensuring high durability.
- The backing of this sketch pad is with a robust design that can be used as a support when you forget to bring your drawing board.
Cons
- This sketchbook is not applicable to Alcohol markers and Watercolor pens.
- The sketchbook is relatively heavy, weighing 1.96 pounds.
- Some users may find the 100-sheet capacity insufficient for their needs.
The Ankkol Sketch Book is a great choice for those who love to draw. The unique spiral bound design at the top of the sketchbook makes it convenient to use, and the robust drawing paper ensures that your sketches will look great. The backing of the sketch pad is also designed to provide better use experience when using these sketch pads.
This sketchbook comes with 100 sheets, making it a great gift for children who are starting to learn to draw or for anyone interested in drawing. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality sketchbook that offers a smooth drawing experience, the Ankkol Sketch Book is definitely worth considering.
CooLeathor A5 Blank Notebook
If you’re looking for a versatile notebook that can be used for sketching, drawing, scrapbooking, or journaling, the CooLeathor A5 Blank Notebook may be a good option for you.
Pros
- The high-quality paper is thick, smooth, and resistant to feathering and bleeding, providing a soft and supple surface for your creations.
- The Kraft cover is simple yet sophisticated, and the notebook lays completely flat, allowing you to draw, write, or sketch without any lumps or bumps.
- With 160 acid-free pages, this notebook provides ample space for your artistic endeavors and can also be used as a refill for the A5 refillable leather journal.
Cons
- The paper may be too rough for some users’ liking, particularly for journaling purposes.
- The binding may not be strong enough for heavy use, as some users have reported pages tearing easily and affecting the binding.
- Some users have reported that the notebook is smaller than they anticipated, so make sure to check the dimensions before purchasing.
If you’re looking for a versatile and affordable notebook for your artistic pursuits, the CooLeathor A5 Blank Notebook is definitely worth considering. The high-quality paper and simple yet sophisticated design make it a great option for sketching, drawing, or scrapbooking, while the ample page count and refillable option provide added value. Just be aware of the potential downsides, such as the rough paper and weaker binding, and make sure the size is suitable for your needs.
Bachmore Sketchpad 9X12″ Inch
If you’re looking for a sketchpad that offers a smooth drawing experience and is suitable for both beginners and professionals, the Bachmore Sketchpad is a great option.
Pros
- The top spiral design makes it easy to use for both left-handed and right-handed individuals.
- The acid-free paper is thick, strong, and slick-smooth, making it perfect for any dry pens like oily color pencils, charcoal, sketching stick, and other dry media pencils.
- The hardbound cover is 100% handmade and helps protect your artwork safely.
Cons
- The weight of each paper is 68lb/100gram, which can be a bit thin for some artists who prefer thicker paper.
- The sketchbook only comes in one size (9” x 12”), which may not be suitable for all artists.
- The burgundy color of the cover may not be everyone’s preference.
The Bachmore Sketchpad is perfect for artists looking for a sketchpad that is both practical and functional. The top spiral design makes it easy to use, and the acid-free paper is thick, strong, and slick-smooth, making it perfect for any dry pens like oily color pencils, charcoal, sketching stick, and other dry media pencils. The hardbound cover is 100% handmade and helps protect your artwork safely.
The only downside to the Bachmore Sketchpad is that the weight of each paper is 68lb/100gram, which can be a bit thin for some artists who prefer thicker paper. Additionally, the sketchbook only comes in one size (9” x 12”), which may not be suitable for all artists. Lastly, the burgundy color of the cover may not be everyone’s preference.
Overall, if you’re looking for a sketchpad that is both practical and functional, the Bachmore Sketchpad is a great option.
Emraw Sketch Book
If you are looking for an affordable sketchbook that can handle your creative needs, the Emraw Sketch Book might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The 6″ x 8″ size is perfect for on-the-go sketching and drawing.
- The spiral bound design allows for easy flipping of pages and prevents the sketchbook from accidentally closing.
- The smooth paper finish and acid-free quality make it suitable for a wide range of mediums, including pencils, markers, and fountain pens.
Cons
- The paper may not be thick enough to handle heavy watercolor or paint without bleeding through.
- The small size may not be ideal for larger or more detailed drawings.
- The cover of the sketchbook is not very durable and may wear out quickly with regular use.
The Emraw Sketch Book is a great option for beginners and hobbyists who want an affordable and versatile sketchbook. The 6″ x 8″ size is perfect for carrying around in a backpack or purse, and the spiral bound design makes it easy to flip through pages and work on both sides of the paper. The smooth paper finish and acid-free quality make it suitable for a wide range of mediums, including pencils, markers, and fountain pens.
However, the paper may not be thick enough to handle heavy watercolor or paint without bleeding through, so keep that in mind if you plan to use those mediums. Additionally, the small size may not be ideal for larger or more detailed drawings. Finally, the cover of the sketchbook is not very durable and may wear out quickly with regular use, so you may want to consider investing in a separate cover or sleeve to protect it.
Overall, the Emraw Sketch Book is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable and versatile sketchbook that can handle a variety of mediums and creative needs.
CooLeathor Kraft Cover Drawing Notebook & Sketchbook
If you’re an artist looking for a versatile and affordable sketchbook, the CooLeathor Kraft Cover Drawing Notebook & Sketchbook might be the one for you.
Pros
- The high-quality acid-free and 100% recycled paper provides a smooth canvas for your sketches and drawings.
- The Kraft cover design is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for any occasion.
- The notebook lays flat on any surface, making it easy to draw or write without any lumps or bumps.
Cons
- The paper is not thick enough to handle wet media like watercolors.
- The binding may wear down over time with frequent use.
- The notebook is not very large, so it may not be suitable for larger drawings or sketches.
This set of two sketchbooks is perfect for artists looking for an affordable and versatile option. The acid-free and recycled paper is high-quality and provides a smooth canvas for your sketches and drawings. The Kraft cover design is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for any occasion. The notebook lays flat on any surface, making it easy to draw or write without any lumps or bumps. However, the paper is not thick enough to handle wet media like watercolors, and the binding may wear down over time with frequent use. Additionally, the notebook is not very large, so it may not be suitable for larger drawings or sketches. Overall, the CooLeathor Kraft Cover Drawing Notebook & Sketchbook is a great option for artists looking for an affordable and versatile sketchbook.
Paper Junkie Small Blank Notebooks
If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile option for sketching and writing, the Paper Junkie Small Blank Notebooks might be worth considering.
Pros
- The compact size of 4.3 x 5.6 inches makes them easy to carry around in your bag or pocket.
- With 48 blank pages in each notebook, you’ll have plenty of space to sketch, write, or doodle.
- The kraft paper cover gives the notebooks a rustic and natural look, and the paper quality is decent for the price.
Cons
- The paper is not very thick, so it may not hold up well to heavy use or wet media.
- Some users have reported that the notebooks arrived with fewer pages than advertised.
- The small size may not be suitable for those who prefer larger sketchbooks.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for sketching and writing on the go, the Paper Junkie Small Blank Notebooks are worth considering. The compact size and lightweight design make them easy to carry around, and the kraft paper cover gives them a unique and natural look. However, keep in mind that the paper is not very thick and may not hold up well to heavy use or wet media.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best notebook for sketching, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to keep in mind:
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the notebook are important factors to consider. If you plan to take your notebook with you on-the-go, a lightweight and compact notebook may be more suitable. However, if you plan to use it primarily at home, a larger notebook may be more comfortable for sketching.
Paper Quality
The quality of the paper is crucial for sketching. Look for a notebook with thick, high-quality paper that can handle a variety of mediums, such as pencils, markers, and watercolors. The paper should also be acid-free to prevent yellowing and deterioration over time.
Binding
The binding of the notebook is another important consideration. A spiral-bound notebook allows for easy flipping and tearing out of pages, but may not be as durable as a sewn binding. Consider how you plan to use the notebook and choose a binding that will best suit your needs.
Additional Features
Some notebooks may come with additional features, such as a built-in pen holder or a pocket for storing loose papers. While these features may be convenient, they may not be necessary for everyone. Consider which additional features you may find useful and choose a notebook accordingly.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best notebook for your sketching needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should you look for in a high-quality sketchbook?
When looking for a sketchbook, it’s important to consider the paper quality, weight, and texture. Look for sketchbooks with acid-free paper to prevent yellowing and deterioration over time. A high-quality sketchbook should also have a sturdy cover and binding to protect your artwork.
Which sketchbook brands are recommended by professional artists?
Some popular sketchbook brands among professional artists include Moleskine, Strathmore, Canson, and Stillman & Birn. These brands offer a range of sizes, paper types, and bindings to fit different sketching needs.
How do you choose the right paper weight for your sketching needs?
The paper weight you choose will depend on the medium you plan to use. For pencil and ink sketches, a paper weight of 70-90lb is typically sufficient. If you plan to use wet media such as watercolor or markers, look for a sketchbook with a higher paper weight of 140lb or more.
What size sketchbook is most versatile for artists on the go?
A sketchbook that is 5×7 inches or 8×10 inches is a versatile size for artists on the go. It’s small enough to fit in a bag or pocket, yet large enough to allow for detailed sketches.
Are there specific sketchbooks that are better for pencil versus ink work?
Sketchbooks with smooth paper are ideal for pencil work, while those with a bit of texture are better for ink work. Look for sketchbooks with paper that can handle erasing and smudging for pencil work, and those that prevent ink from bleeding or feathering for ink work.
What are the benefits of using a sketch pad over a traditional notebook for sketching?
Sketch pads are designed specifically for artwork, with high-quality paper and durable bindings to protect your work. They also come in a variety of sizes and paper types to fit different needs. Using a sketch pad allows you to focus solely on your art without worrying about the limitations of a traditional notebook.
