Sketch books are probably one of the most indispensable tools for any artist- they after all provide you with the opportunity to put your thoughts onto the paper. They are typically just paper sheets which come in either white or a set of multicoloured papers that allow you to make sketches of different variations. In this blog, Feedhour will talk about the best sketch books that you can find in the market, and help you understand how you can filter out the best pieces from the many options available in the market.
Must have tools for every artist
Quality Sketch book
Choose a sketch book with high-quality acid-free paper, suitable for your preferred medium- pencil, ink, watercolour, or a mix of various techniques to ensure that it does not bleed through.
Diverse Drawing Pencils
Another essential item to have in your artistic toolkit, particularly for sketching and painting, is a collection of premium drawing pencils in different grades. These pencils enable varied shading, outlining, and detailing. Drawing pencils are often available in several grades, such as Bs and Hs. Bs are suitable for creating powerful strokes, while Hs are ideal for producing thin lines. This selection allows artists to get the desired stroke quality in their drawings.
Erasers for Precision
It is important that you get both kneaded and gum erasers to achieve precision in your work. Kneaded erasers are pliable and ideal for lifting graphite, while gum erasers are excellent for ink and coloured pencil corrections.
Fine Line Pens
Fine line pens, such as microns, are indispensable for inking and outlining to give more detail to your sketches. Their consistent ink flow and various tip sizes make them perfect for adding definition and detail to your artwork to make it seem more hyper realistic.
High-Quality Brushes
When working with paints that require brushes, it is important to have superior brushes. A variety of brush shapes and sizes provide a wide range of strokes and effects, allowing you versatility in your painting methods.
Versatile Palette and Paints
An adaptable colour palette with a combination of basic and secondary hues, as well as necessary tones such as white and black, provides limitless creative opportunities. Make sure that you select artist-grade paints for vivid and durable results.
Why should you buy a sketch book?
A sketch book provides a designated area for your drawings and ideas, allowing you the liberty to explore different creative materials, improve your skills, and document your artistic progress. It offers a physical, easily transportable surface to record brief moments of creativity, promoting a regular routine that improves your abilities gradually.
How are sketch books different from normal papers?
Texture:
Sketch books are designed with a coarser texture, sketch pads provide tooth or grain to hold drawing materials like pencils, charcoal, and pastels. The texture aids in shading and adding depth to sketches. Normal Papers often have a smoother texture, making them suitable for general writing and printing but less ideal for artistic mediums that require adherence, like graphite or charcoal.
Weight
Sketch paper tends to be thicker and heavier, preventing bleed through and allowing for erasing and reworking. Normal Papers are typically lighter and may not withstand heavy application of drawing materials, leading to warping or tearing.
Versatility
Sketch Pads are specifically designed for artistic purposes, sketch pads are versatile and come in various types, such as toned paper or mixed-media pads, catering to different artistic preferences. Regular papers are more generic and primarily intended for writing, printing, or basic office use, lacking the specialised features that enhance artistic expression.
Top picks for sketch books on the internet
1. WHSmith A4 White Sketch Pad 50 Sheets
The WHSmith A4 Sketch Pad with 50 smooth 135gsm sheets is a must-have for artists. It is perfect for drawing, doodling, and sketching. This glue-bound pad offers a canvas for creative expression. With dimensions of 300x210x11mm, it’s conveniently sized for all your sketches.
2. WHSmith A4 Kraft Sketch Book 50 Sheets
The WHSmith A4 Kraft Sketch book is a creative haven featuring quality white sheets, perfect for doodles and sketches. With stylish plain kraft board covers and a black wiro spine, it offers a comfortable surface and easy page-turning. The acid-free 135 gsm paper ensures longevity. Compact with 50 sheets, this A4 sketchbook from WHSmith is an artist’s essential, combining durability and style for an immersive creative experience.
3. WHSmith Art A5 White Sketch Pad 50 Sheets
The WHSmith A5 Drawing Pad is a game-changer for everyday sketching. With 50 smooth, easy-to-tear sheets at 90 gsm, this top-bound flip pad offers a delightful canvas for your artistic endeavours. Compact in size and lightweight, it’s perfect for sketching on the go.
Conclusion
Feedhour has discovered some of the most important aspects of high-quality sketchbooks, along with many must-have options for you so you can have a versatile palette to draw on. Check out some of our best picks for watercolour sketch books available on WHSmith so you can create the most stunning landscapes anyone can imagine. Sketchbooks bridge the gap between thought and expression, offering a sacred ground for artistic discovery that every creator should embrace.