Best Notebook for Sketching: Top Picks for Artists and Designers in 2024

Sketching is a fundamental part of the creative process for artists, designers, and architects. Whether you're sketching to brainstorm ideas or to create a finished piece, having the right notebook can make all the difference. A good sketchbook should provide a smooth surface for drawing, be durable enough to withstand frequent use, and have enough pages to accommodate your creative output.

When it comes to finding the best notebook for sketching, there are a few critical things to consider. One of the most important factors is the paper quality. The paper should be thick enough to prevent bleed-through and provide a smooth surface for drawing. The binding is also essential, as it should be strong enough to hold the pages together but flexible enough to allow the notebook to lay flat.

Another critical factor to consider is the size of the notebook. A larger notebook may be more comfortable to work on, but it may not be as portable. On the other hand, a smaller notebook may be easier to carry around, but it may not provide enough space for larger sketches.

In this article, we'll be reviewing the best notebooks for sketching on the market. We'll be looking at factors like paper quality, binding, size, and price to help you find the perfect notebook for your sketching needs.

Best Notebooks for Sketching

If you're an artist or designer, having a reliable notebook for sketching is essential. Whether you prefer traditional pen and paper or digital drawing tools, there are plenty of options available on the market. In this article, we've rounded up the best notebooks for sketching to help you find the perfect one for your creative needs. From classic Moleskine notebooks to innovative digital tablets, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and explore the top picks for the best notebooks for sketching.

BGJRBY Spiral Sketch Book

If you are looking for a high-quality sketchbook for your artistic needs, the BGJRBY Spiral Sketch Book is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 100gsm 68lb fine textured bright paper is perfect for all artistic drawings and sketches.
• The built-in drawing board makes it easy to draw without having to purchase a separate board.
• The hardcover and waterproof cover protects your artwork and makes it a durable keepsake.

Cons

• The paper is slightly thin, so it may not be suitable for watercolor or other wet media.
• The sheets are not perforated, so detaching them may require some effort.
• The cover is blank, so it may not be as visually appealing as other sketchbooks.

This sketchbook comes in a 2-pack, with each book containing 100 completely blank and unlined pages, making it perfect for all dry media including pencil, pen, pastels, charcoal, sketching sticks, and more. The pages are acid-free and unbleached, ensuring that your artwork will last for decades.

The 8.5x11-inch size of each page provides ample space for your drawings, and the spiral binding allows you to turn pages smoothly and easily. Additionally, every page has a perforated edging for easy tearing.

Overall, the BGJRBY Spiral Sketch Book is a great choice for artists looking for a high-quality sketchbook at an affordable price.

MEMX Sketch Book

If you're an artist looking for a reliable sketchbook, the MEMX Sketch Book is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Acid-free paper ensures your sketches won't yellow over time
• Spiral binding makes it easy to flip through pages and remove them if needed
• Heavy chipboard backing provides good support for writing and drawing

Cons

• Some users may find the 5.5" x 8.5" size too small for their needs
• The plastic cover may not be as durable as a hardcover option
• Only suitable for dry media, not ideal for watercolor or other wet media

This sketchbook is perfect for artists, illustrators, designers, and doodlers who want a high-quality paper to work on. The 110GSM sketch paper is suitable for pencils, charcoals, pens, pastels, sketching sticks, and more. The acid-free and neutral PH paper ensures that your sketches won't yellow over time, and it's erasable and smudge-resistant, making it the go-to purchase for all artists.

The spiral-bound natural white sheets provide better access, and you can easily flip the pages over to the backs, making it easy to remove pages for framing or displaying. The plastic waterproof hardcover and heavy chipboard backing provide good support for writing and drawing, making it ideal for a diary, travel journal, poetry work, creative writing, making sketches and drawings, work records, study notes, mood diary, scrapbooks, and more.

If you're not entirely happy with the MEMX Sketch Book, the manufacturer offers a money-back guarantee, so you can purchase with confidence.

BGJRBY Spiral Sketch Book

If you're looking for an affordable sketchbook with a built-in drawing board, the BGJRBY Spiral Sketch Book might be a good option for you.

Pros

• The paper quality is high, with each pad consisting of 100 sheets of 100gsm 68lb fine textured bright paper, ideal for all dry media including pencil, pen, pastels, charcoal, sketching sticks, and more.
• The built-in drawing board eliminates the need to purchase a separate one, making it easier to draw on the go.
• The larger page size (8.5x11 inches) and heftier drawing paper provide more space and sturdiness for your artistic drawings and sketches.

Cons

• The paper is completely blank and unlined, which may be a pro for some artists, but a con for those who prefer lined paper or grids.
• The cover is made of slick-smooth, waterproof material, which may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other notebook covers.
• The notebook is hardbound, which may make it difficult to fold over and draw on the opposite side of the page.

Overall, if you're looking for a sketchbook with high-quality paper and a built-in drawing board at an affordable price, the BGJRBY Spiral Sketch Book might be worth considering.

Artisto Premium Sketch Book Set

If you're looking for an affordable sketchbook that offers great quality paper, the Artisto Premium Sketch Book Set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The premium paper quality offers a perfect texture for drawing, sketching, and illustrating.
• The set of sketchbooks work excellently with all dry media, including pen, pencil, charcoal, pastels, crayons, and sketching sticks.
• The micro-perforated pages make it easy to remove single pages as and when required.

Cons

• The paper may not be thick enough for wet media.
• The cover may not be as durable as some other sketchbooks.
• The size of the sketchbook may be too large for some artists.

The Artisto Premium Sketch Book Set is an ideal choice for artists who want a high-quality sketchbook without breaking the bank. The 200 bright white sketch paper pages offer the perfect texture for drawing, sketching, and illustrating, and the set of two sketchbooks works well with all dry media. The micro-perforated pages make it easy to remove single pages as needed, and the spiral-bound design allows for smooth and easy page turning.

While the paper is not thick enough for wet media, it is acid-free and pH neutral, ensuring that your artwork will last for years to come. The cover may not be as durable as some other sketchbooks, but the affordable price makes up for it. The size of the sketchbook may be too large for some artists, but overall, the Artisto Premium Sketch Book Set is an excellent choice for all artists, whether you are a veteran or a novice. Plus, with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can purchase with confidence.

Premium Sketch Book

If you're an artist looking for a high-quality sketchbook to bring your creations to life, the Premium Sketch Book from InkJoyful is a great choice.

Pros

• The heavyweight 120gsm SKETCH PAD paper brings vibrancy to every stroke, making colors and lines come alive on your canvas.
• The optimized binding ensures page integrity, allowing for an uninterrupted flow of creativity whether you're in the great outdoors or your personal studio.
• The 9 x 12 inch portable SKETCH BOOK provides 100 pages of opportunity for artists to chronicle their creative journey without the fear of running out of space.

Cons

• The paper is not suitable for markers and watercolors to prevent bleeding.
• The sketchbook comes in only two colors - gray and yellow.
• The price is on the higher side.

The Premium Sketch Book is perfect for artists of all skill levels and adapts to a range of drawing styles and techniques. The paper's thickness and texture are ideal for various media, including pencils, charcoal, and pastels. The specially treated surface is perfect for dry media, enhancing the texture and transforming each piece into a cherished artwork.

The twin-ring bound SKETCHBOOK offers a seamless flipping experience, making it easy to work on both sides of the page. The sketchbook's acid-free paper ensures your artwork endures over time, making each SKETCH PAD the perfect choice for artists focused on the longevity of their creations or for those looking to gift a piece of lasting art.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality sketchbook that brings your creations to life, the Premium Sketch Book from InkJoyful is a great investment.

Soucolor Sketch Book

If you're looking for a high-quality sketchbook for all levels of artists, the Soucolor Sketch Book is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Premium paper quality with a nice texture for drawing, sketching, and illustrating.
• Acid-free and PH neutral paper that prevents bleeding, smudging, and feathering for clean artwork.
• Suitable for all types of dry media such as pencils, pens, crayons, charcoal, pastels, and sketching sticks.

Cons

• Not applicable to alcohol markers and watercolor pens.
• The cover is a little flimsy and thin, not hard.
• The gray color cover is a bit shimmery, which may not be ideal for all artists.

The Soucolor Sketch Book comes with 100 sheets of premium sketch pad paper at an affordable price. The top spiral binding allows for easy page-turning and for the pad to lay flat when opened, making it friendly for both left-handed and right-handed people. Additionally, every page is micro-perforated, allowing you to easily remove single pages.

This sketchbook is perfect for kids, art students, and professional artists to create artwork and practice skills. It's also a great gift for back-to-school supplies, Christmas art supplies, and craft painting drawing supplies.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality sketchbook that is suitable for all types of dry media, the Soucolor Sketch Book is a great option to consider.

BEECHMORE BOOKS Sketch Book

If you're looking for a premium sketchbook, the BEECHMORE BOOKS Sketch Book is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The thick, 120gsm cream paper is resistant to bleed-through, ink erasing, ghosting, and shading, ensuring that each page remains pristine.
• The bookbinding process guarantees durability, with a vegan leather cover, perforated pages, secure elastic closure, subtle bookmark ribbon, 180° lay-flat binding, and a deep back pocket.
• Each Beechmore Art Book is presented in a signature box, making it an ideal gift for artists, students, designers, or drawing enthusiasts.

Cons

• The BEECHMORE BOOKS Sketch Book is a bit on the heavy side, weighing in at 2.93 pounds.
• The price point is higher than some other sketchbooks on the market.
• The A4 size may be too large for some users.

If you're looking for a sketchbook that exudes elegance and sophistication, the BEECHMORE BOOKS Sketch Book is definitely worth considering. The luxurious, thick paper is perfect for drawing, painting, mixed media art, art journaling, storyboarding, calligraphy practice, doodling and mind mapping, art therapy, and gift-giving. The book's meticulous attention to detail extends to its superior craftsmanship, with thread-bound pages ensuring long-lasting durability. The elegant vegan leather cover and thoughtful design elements make it a standout choice for artists and creatives.

The BEECHMORE BOOKS Sketch Book is perfect for artists who want to elevate their work to the next level. The thick paper ensures that your drawings won't bleed through or smudge, while the perforated pages allow you to easily tear out your work. The secure elastic closure keeps your pages safe, while the subtle bookmark ribbon makes it easy to keep your place. The deep back pocket is perfect for storing your art supplies, and the 180° lay-flat binding makes it easy to work on your art without any distractions.

Overall, the BEECHMORE BOOKS Sketch Book is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to take their art to the next level. Whether you're a professional artist or just starting out, this sketchbook is sure to impress.

Fuxi Sketch Book

If you're looking for a versatile and durable sketchbook, the Fuxi Sketch Book may be a good choice for you.

Pros

• The premium and tough material allows for erasing without damaging the paper surface, making it ideal for all dry media including pencil, pen, pastels, charcoal, sketching sticks, and gel pen.
• The convenient spiral bound design provides better access to flipping the pages and detaching paper, providing a better drawing and writing experience.
• The compact size with protective cover is portable enough to carry around and stash in almost all kinds of backpacks, making it always ready when inspiration hits.

Cons

• The sketchbook is not applicable to markers and watercolor pens.
• The rough texture of the sketch paper may not be suitable for everyone's drawing style.
• The pages may not be thick enough for some artists who prefer heavier weight paper.

This sketchbook is suitable for all skill levels, making it a perfect gift for drawing enthusiasts. The acid-free and non-faded paper reduces drawing smudges, blotches, or transfers, and protects your art so that colors stay rich and vibrant for many years under normal use and storage conditions.

The Fuxi Sketch Book is a great choice for those who are looking for a durable and versatile sketchbook that can be used for sketching, painting, and writing.

Bachmore Sketchpad 9X12" Inch

If you're looking for a sketchpad that can be used by both beginners and professionals, the Bachmore Sketchpad 9X12" Inch is definitely worth considering.

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 use with any dry pens.
• The hardbound cover helps protect your artwork safely.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the paper is too thin for use with markers.
• The sketchpad may not be as durable as other similar products.
• The price point may be higher than other sketchpads on the market.

This sketchpad is perfect for anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile sketchpad that can be used for a variety of different projects. The top spiral design makes it easy to use for both left-handed and right-handed individuals, while the acid-free paper is thick, strong, and slick-smooth, making it perfect for use with any dry pens. Additionally, the hardbound cover helps protect your artwork safely.

However, some users have reported that the paper is too thin for use with markers, and the sketchpad may not be as durable as other similar products. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other sketchpads on the market. Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality sketchpad that can be used by both beginners and professionals, the Bachmore Sketchpad 9X12" Inch is definitely worth considering.

Emraw Sketch Book

If you're looking for an affordable sketchbook that is perfect for beginners and professionals alike, the Emraw Sketch Book might be the one for you.

Pros

• The size of the sketchbook is perfect for sketching requirements, making it extremely economical for users.
• The sheets of the sketchbook are of high-quality and quite durable in nature.
• The spiral bound design makes it easy to use and carry around.

Cons

• The sketchbook may not be suitable for those who prefer larger sheets for sketching.
• The paper may not be thick enough to prevent bleeding or smudging for certain types of media.
• The sketchbook may not be acid-free, which may affect the longevity of the artwork.

The Emraw Sketch Book is a great choice for those who are just starting out with sketching or for those who are looking for an affordable option. The size of the sketchbook is perfect for sketching requirements, and the spiral bound design makes it easy to use and carry around. The sheets of the sketchbook are of high-quality and quite durable in nature, which means that you can use a variety of media on them without worrying about the paper coming off easily.

However, the sketchbook may not be suitable for those who prefer larger sheets for sketching, as the size of the sheets is relatively small. Additionally, the paper may not be thick enough to prevent bleeding or smudging for certain types of media, which may affect the quality of the artwork. Lastly, the sketchbook may not be acid-free, which may affect the longevity of the artwork over time.

Overall, the Emraw Sketch Book is a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable sketchbook that is perfect for beginners and professionals alike. If you're looking for a sketchbook that is easy to use, durable, and of high-quality, the Emraw Sketch Book might be the one for you.

CooLeathor A5 Blank Notebook

If you're looking for a versatile notebook that can be used for sketching, writing, and journaling, the CooLeathor A5 Blank Notebook is a great option.

Pros

• The glued and sewn binding keeps the paper in place for long-term use, while still allowing for easy page removal.
• The high-quality, acid-free paper is thick and smooth, making it ideal for sketching and writing.
• The notebook lays completely flat, providing a smooth surface for drawing or writing without any bumps.

Cons

• The cover is a simple Kraft design, which may not be to everyone's taste.
• The paper may not be suitable for advanced artists who require specific types of paper for their artwork.
• The binding may not be as sturdy as some other sketchbooks on the market.

This notebook is perfect for anyone who wants a versatile, high-quality notebook that can be used for a variety of purposes. The glued and sewn binding ensures that the notebook will last for a long time, while the acid-free paper provides a smooth surface for drawing and writing.

The notebook's Kraft cover is simple yet sophisticated, and the notebook itself is the perfect size for carrying around with you wherever you go. Whether you're sketching, writing, or journaling, this notebook is sure to meet your needs.

Overall, the CooLeathor A5 Blank Notebook is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality notebook that can be used for a variety of purposes.

CooLeathor Kraft Cover Drawing Notebook & Sketchbook

If you're looking for a versatile and high-quality sketchbook, the CooLeathor Kraft Cover Drawing Notebook & Sketchbook is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The acid-free and 100% recycled paper used in this sketchbook is of the highest quality, providing you with a smooth, soft, and durable canvas to bring your creative ideas to life.
• The Kraft cover of this notebook is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for artists and writers of all levels.
• The glued and sewn binding of this sketchbook is firm and long-lasting, ensuring that your sketches and notes stay safe and secure for years to come.

Cons

• The paper in this sketchbook may not be thick enough for some artists who prefer to use wet media like watercolor or ink.
• The A5 size of this notebook may be too small for artists who prefer to work on larger canvases.
• Some users have reported that the binding of this sketchbook can wear down over time, especially if it is frequently carried in a bag or exposed to the elements.

If you're looking for a sketchbook that is both versatile and high-quality, the CooLeathor Kraft Cover Drawing Notebook & Sketchbook is definitely worth considering. With its acid-free and 100% recycled paper, simple yet elegant Kraft cover, and firm glued and sewn binding, this sketchbook is perfect for artists and writers of all levels. However, if you prefer to work with wet media, you may find that the paper in this sketchbook is not thick enough, and if you prefer to work on larger canvases, the A5 size may be too small. Additionally, some users have reported that the binding of this sketchbook can wear down over time, so if you plan on carrying it around frequently, you may want to consider a sturdier option.

Speedball Notebook for Sketching

If you're looking for a compact notebook that's perfect for sketching on the go, the Speedball Notebook for Sketching might be just what you need.

Pros

• The high-quality buff-colored paper is perfect for dry media and allows for easy erasing.
• The durable cover with an elastic closure keeps your sketches safe and secure.
• With six different formats to choose from, including pocket portrait and grand portrait, you're sure to find the perfect size for your needs.

Cons

• The paper may be too thin for some artists who prefer heavier paper for their sketches.
• The notebook is not ideal for watercolor painting.
• The notebook may be too small for some artists who prefer larger sketchbooks.

The Speedball Notebook is a great choice for artists who want a compact sketchbook that they can take with them wherever they go. The high-quality paper is perfect for dry media, and the durable cover ensures that your sketches will be safe and secure. However, if you prefer heavier paper for your sketches or want to use watercolors, this notebook may not be the best choice for you.

If you're looking for a compact sketchbook that's perfect for sketching on the go, the Speedball Notebook is definitely worth considering. With six different formats to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect size for your needs. Whether you're an experienced artist or just starting out, this notebook is a great choice for anyone who loves to sketch.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best notebook for sketching, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the right one for your needs. Here are some of the most important features to look for:

Paper Quality

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a notebook for sketching is the quality of the paper. You want paper that is thick enough to handle different types of media, such as pencils, pens, and markers. Look for paper that is acid-free, so your sketches won't yellow over time.

Size

Another important factor to consider is the size of the notebook. Consider where you will be using it and how portable you need it to be. If you plan on carrying it around with you, a smaller notebook may be more convenient. However, if you plan on doing larger sketches, a larger notebook may be more suitable.

Binding

The binding of the notebook is also an important factor to consider. Spiral-bound notebooks are great for sketching, as they allow you to easily flip through pages and fold the notebook back on itself. However, they may not be as durable as other types of binding, such as hardcover or perfect binding.

Cover Material

The cover material of the notebook is also important. You want a cover that is durable and will protect your sketches. Look for covers made from materials such as leather or heavy-duty cardboard.

Additional Features

Some notebooks come with additional features that may be useful for sketching, such as perforated pages, pockets for storing loose papers, or elastic bands to keep the notebook closed.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best notebook for sketching that meets your needs and allows you to create beautiful sketches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should beginners look for in a sketchbook?

As a beginner, it's important to look for a sketchbook that has a good quality paper that can handle different media, such as pencil, ink, and watercolor. A sketchbook with a sturdy cover and good binding is also important to ensure durability and longevity.

Which sketchbook brands are preferred by professional artists?

Professional artists often prefer sketchbooks from brands such as Moleskine, Canson, and Strathmore. These brands offer a variety of paper types and sizes to suit different artistic styles and needs.

How do I choose the best paper quality for sketching?

The best paper quality for sketching depends on the type of media you plan to use. For example, if you plan to use pencil, a paper with a smooth surface is ideal. If you plan to use ink or watercolor, a paper with a heavier weight and some tooth is recommended.

What are the advantages of using a dedicated sketchbook over a regular notebook for art?

Dedicated sketchbooks are designed specifically for art and have paper that is suitable for different media. They also have features such as a sturdy cover and binding, and often come in a variety of sizes and paper types to suit different artistic needs.

Can you recommend a sketchbook that works well with both pencil and ink?

A sketchbook with paper that has some tooth and a weight of at least 90gsm is recommended for both pencil and ink. Brands such as Moleskine, Canson, and Strathmore offer sketchbooks with paper that fits this description.

What type of sketchbook is most suitable for urban sketching?

For urban sketching, a sketchbook with a hardcover and a size that is easy to carry, such as an A5 or A6, is recommended. Paper with a weight of at least 90gsm and some tooth is also ideal for different media. Brands such as Stillman & Birn and Leuchtturm1917 offer sketchbooks that are popular among urban sketchers.