Sketchbooks are not just “paper holders”. They are travel companions, idea catchers, and confidence builders. I tested different formats and surfaces until I found a lineup that matches how I actually sketch. Some go with me outside, some live at home, and some are perfect for quick daily sketching practice. If you want a sketchbook that supports your style instead of fighting it, this list will help.
Handbook Journal Co.
This sketchbook is my reliable all around choice for both indoor and outdoor sketching. I use pens, ink, water based markers, and brush pens in it, and it handles them like a champ. It can survive a bit of washing, but I keep it light and controlled, because it is not built for heavy watercolor. The Cologne spread in the photo is exactly why I love it for travel sketches: fast lines, clean pages, and no stress. More information about this sketchbook find here.
Handmade sketchbook
This one is special because I made it myself using paper from a Canson watercolor pad. I barely used that big pad in its original format, so turning it into a sketchbook was the best upgrade. It feels bigger and heavier than my other sketchbooks, so I mostly use it at home when I want to slow down. Watercolors, ink, watercolor pencils, brush pens, and mixed media all feel natural on this paper, so it invites experiments. All the process of how I’ve made it here.
Pentalic Pocket Sketchbook
Tiny pocket sketchbook is my favorite for quick walks and short sketch sessions near home. The size removes pressure, so I sketch more often and capture moments before they disappear. It works best with dry and semi dry media like pens, brush pens, water based markers, and acrylic markers. I do not love colored pencils on this paper, but for Inktober style bold marks it is a perfect little workhorse. More information about this sketchbook find here.
Tumuarta watercolor sketchbook
Tumuarta is a watercolor sketchbook, and I chose the landscape format to challenge myself. Honestly, at first it felt like a mistake because I did not know when and where to use such a wide page. Then I got used to it, and now I love how it pushes me to simplify scenes and think in panoramic compositions. It is 25% cotton, great for outdoor sketching, and I enjoy mixing watercolor with acrylic markers for extra pop. More information about this sketchbook find here.
Nostalgie by Hahnemuhle
Nostalgie sketchbook is one of my most flexible choices because it accepts many types of media. I use pencils and pens on it, and I also use acrylic markers and even light watercolor washes. I do not love full watercolor on this paper because cotton thick paper performs much better for that. But for collaging, mixed media, small washes, and layering, it feels smooth, responsive, and very satisfying. More information about this sketchbook find here.
In the end, I do not look for a “perfect” sketchbook, I look for the right tool for the moment. If you sketch outside, keep a small portable one ready. If you paint at home, choose paper that supports wet media. If you love mixed media, pick something that can handle layers without becoming fragile.
