Things to consider before buying sketchbooks for an artist

Sketching in B+ sketchbook

A few days back, I watched this video on ted talks by Barry Schwartz, where he explained how "Freedom of choice" leads people to feel powerless and frustrated because choosing one among many other options means giving up the rest of the opportunities. I instantly related to this.

And it got me thinking how choosing the perfect sketchbooks for artists can be an emotionally challenging task, especially if you're a beginner. You might be wondering what size to buy, what type of paper is best, which kind of drawing material, how many pages, whether spiral or hardbound. What if I hate it after two pages? WHY ARE SOME SO EXPENSIVE AND SOME ARE TENTH OF THEN PRICE!!?

And If you're not a beginner, you might have fallen into the rabbit hole where you have your go-to notebook that you buy five at a time. Then suddenly, you see someone's Instagram sketchbooks for artist pic, and everything you thought you knew and loved about your beloved sketch notebook is thrown to bits.

Don't worry, I've got you covered. Here are some things that you should keep in mind while buying your next art sketchbook.

Size

Start with asking yourself the following questions. Do you work better in small or big sizes? What size inspires you the most? Also, where do you usually work?

If you like to carry your sketch notebook, a smaller option would be more practical.

If you're unsure, a primary default option would be an A5 sketchbook. It's small enough to fit in most bags and big enough to draw comfortably.

Paperweight (GSM)

The Density or weight of the paper is different for everyone. The perfect piece for you might be garbage for someone else. It's all about preferences and the materials that you use.

If you prefer to use liquid colors (Water, Acrylic, Gouache, paint, etc.), you need a watercolor sketchbook with min 200 GSM (Grams Per Meter). If you work with dry media (Charcoal, Graphite, Pastels), light sheets with around 70 to 100 GSM would be ideal.

No. of pages

This is an easy one.

Do you get tired of sketchbooks quickly and want to finish them? Or if you plan on setting some challenge like ' Finish an art sketchbook in a week.'

Pick a drawing sketchbook with fewer pages.

If you want it to last long, pick a thick sketchbook.

Price

Some sketchbooks for artists are expensive, and some are too cheap. I used to like sketch notebooks with more pages since they are more valuable for money. If sketchbooks have more pages, it must be a better deal than those with lesser pages. At least, that's what I used to think.

A cheap sketchbook for artists doesn't have to be bad quality, but it can be.

If you're a casual sketcher, you can get a cheap light sketch notebook. On the other hand, if you continuously have to buy new sketchbooks, it might be better to buy one with more pages.

Color of paper

Not all papers are white.

There are different shades of color offered by other brands. Some provide an off-white paper, either in cream or light yellow. The cream paper makes artworks appear warmer. White paper allows colors to be more striking.

Toned paper is excellent for practicing tonal or value drawing. Black paper tends to isolate the drawing and lets the audience focus on the subject. When you're getting the colored paper, it's good to get a white pen or pencil to highlight areas in your drawings to give them more dimension.

Sketchbooks are meant for fun and trying different styles. Everyone makes different kinds of drawing. If you want to sell your work, draw and paint on loose sheets and frame them up.

One thing that's great about sketchbooks is that it allows the artist to grow. You can always look back at your old sketches and see how much you have improved. There's a sense of satisfaction when you draw up a book and review your work. Drawing is a skill that you should always be practicing to keep yourself in shape. The more you draw, the more you can.

I hope this makes it easier for you to choose your perfect art sketchbook.

Now that you've grasped everything you're after, it's time to shop. Here's a list of sketchbooks that I personally enjoy.

Sketchbooks recommendations

1. B+ A3 Sketch Book : Unruled : Natural Shade Paper. These sketchbooks are widely available in attractive cover designs. They also come with a Long-lasting, durable cover with smooth corners. Perfect for your daily sketches. These notebooks are also eco-friendly and do not contain any elemental chlorine.
   

2. AA Drawing notebook : These sketchbooks come with a soft cover center. Bright excellent quality paper. Comes with many sizes and customization options.
   

3. B+ Premium a3 sketchbook : Comes with engaging book covers. They make both watercolor books and Sketch notebooks in different variants and sizes.

If you need any more information feel free to ask in the comments below.