This will take the mystery out of which notebook is the right one for many viewers. There are so many to choose from and your video will make it easier for people to make a smart decision for themselves. Thanks Katie!!😘
I’m with you on the ‘precious’ Katie. I have so many sketch books and tend to only grab the cheapest ones while the nicer more expensive ones sit on the shelf. If I’m not going to work on a planned ‘masterpiece’ then why ruin the book? lol! Such a silly way of thinking but it actually frees me up to throw anything on the paper and see what happens when I’m working in the less ‘precious’ books. 😊
Haha yes exactly this! I think we can be a bit more playful and free when we know the art supplies we're using don't cost a fortune. It definitely is a factor in art making even though all supplies are made to be used 🙈 Glad you can relate with me! 💛
I also love the Strathmore Mixed Media journals in both the hardcover and softcovers! The 500 Series Mixed Media paper is FANTASTIC! It's truly perfect for mixed media as it's the only paper I've found that watercolor, gouache and colored pencil ALL perform equally well on. My only gripes are that 1. the journal covers age terribly, and 2. I wish they offered it in an A6 or pocket size that I could keep as my EDC sketchbook. Right now I'm carrying a pocket-sized Stillman & Birn Alpha which is a paper that I tolerate rather than love.
Totally agree! I've definitely found my soft cover got battered and beat up really easily, interesting that you find the same out the hard cover too! More sizes for the 500 series would be perfect 🙌🏻
@@KatieMoody Yes. The hardcover sketchbook doesn't get banged up like the softcover, one but there's a coating on it that starts to peel. I've been working in one since 2021 and it definitely looks worn in 😂 like it's been touched entirely too many times. But I still love it!
@@PaintIt4Ward Unfortunately, the 90 lb paper used in the journals doesn't come in pads or smaller sheets, at least not as far as I know. If you have a source please let me know! However, I did buy the large 22x30 inch sheets to make a custom journal, but I just noticed that they've discontinued the four-pack of this paper on Blick. I'm worried they're going to stop making the big sheets altogether so I bought extra. So please let me know where you've seen the pads because the only other smaller sheets that I've seen are all Heavyweight.
Katie, A Ranger Dylusions sketchbook would be life changing for you! I was sad not to see that as one of your favorites! Ultra thick pages and 64 pages in the large sketchbook, 48 in the small and 48 in the square version. I definitely suggest this as a sketchbook that is great for any media (inks, watercolor, gouache, acrylic, pencil, neocolor, etc.-even in several layers...) comes in 3 sizes and also in an all black (black pages) in a square version. They are fabulous! Thanks so much for sharing your recommendations; I really enjoyed it!
I’ve just looked this one up coz it sounded so good. But I don’t think they’re really sold in the UK so they’re quite expensive to buy online from random shops!
I just ordered a Christmas mystery pack from ranger. Hope there's a Dylusions sketchbook in it, because now I'm super curious. I'll have to try it if I get a chance. Thanks for the idea.
Thank you so much Crystal, that sounds like a fab sketchbook! It's not one I see very often so I'd be keen to give it a go. Thanks so much for watching and sharing your recommendation! 💛
@@geeniejay1710 Maybe you could use the fake one: Vaessen Creative Stamp Journal. I really liked it, but bought the big one, A4 and it was too heavy to take it out on plan air painting sessions. But it was much cheaper than the original Dylusions.
What a great way to remember cold and hot press! I‘m a new (but old) artist (love watercolor, but am beginning to love mixed media. I like the Bee Creative 100% cotton 130/300 sketchbooks. They are hard to find now, though so I started using Viviva, however, I prefer spiral bound now at this point in my art journey. I learn so much from you, Katie- thanks.
Oh I'm so glad, thank you so much for your lovely comment! I've not heard of the Bee Creative sketchbooks, that's such a shame they're tricky to find when you find one that works for you! 💜
I was a watercolorist first and now I'm getting into mixed media. But Etchr regular white cover sketchbook was I think my 3rd sketchbook to try . I don't know if it uses different paper than their Perfect sketchbook , but my experience only using watercolors on the Etchr paper is that it takes the watercolor paint and really dulls the color down compared to other watercolor paper. I've used 2 sketchbooks from them - the ones with the white cover just different sizes and both sketchbooks had this effect with the watercolors. I'm actually not sure why it's rated so high amongst watercolor users - because it really messes with the vibrancy of watercolors. Take note that I'm used to expensive high GSM 100% cotton paper, so that's what I'm comparing it to - particularly since etchr is also 100% cotton and quite pricy
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, so helpful! I've not used any other Etchr sketchbooks so can't comment on those, but this is really interesting to read! I wonder if anyone has done a comparison here on UA-cam with the Etchr sketchbooks and compared them to other ones with 100% cotton paper!
I would agree on the Etchr sketchbooks. I have used both the white cover sketchbook and black cover Perfect sketchbook. I thought it was just me who had this experience since they are so highly praised by so many. They are nice, (but pricey) and they are 100% cotton but I too think watercolors (regardless of paint brand) look duller on the Etchr sketchbook paper. I've not seen anyone compare the Etchr sketchbooks with other 100% cotton sketchbooks specifically for watercolors but it would be interesting. I just finished filling my Etchr sketchbook so maybe I can see if there is any difference with the next 100% cotton sketchbook. I've too just recently ventured into Mixed Media so not sure when I'll start a 100% cotton sketchbook using just watercolor.
I have a theory... I might be wrong, but I feel like they use the Baohong student grade paper in the Etchr sketchbook (white cover), I think that it's just repackaged and bound together. Why? Well, I noticed exactly what you did - the colours dull down A LOT. After pondering for a while I suddenly understood that I know this effect from another 100% cotton paper I use which comes from the Chinese brand Baohong. I took both Etchr and Baohong and made a little test at the same time using the same watercolours - and I swear, the results looked shockingly identical. Since then I'm a believer 😂 But Baohong, at least, is much cheaper...
@@k.b.1996 That's very interesting. I have a Baohong block that I have not tried yet. I'll have to give it a go and see if I experience the same thing. If the experience is the same, you're right, at least the Baohong is cheaper. 🙂Thanks for sharing your observation.
@@cj_kirby if you try it, I'll be extremely interested in your results! My test was on the hot press paper for both Baohong and Etchr. I do have the coldpress baohong, but not etchr, so for this type of paper, I can't vouch, but for hot press - yes! Please report back, I'm super interested!
Awe that was very sweet of you Katie to make mention of me in your video!😃🤭 Thx for another great video ~ I love these comparisons/pros & cons types of videos as it really helps us viewers to narrow down the multitude of choices out there to try out! I’ve now added your new fave Strathmore 500 Series to my ever growing wish list, along with several gouaches & Tombow dual markers (both of which I’ve not yet tried;) since I’ve started watching your videos!! 🤭💸🤪📚🎨💚
Of course Fab, thank you for taking the time to help with all the different S+B ranges! For sure, there are so many different variations out there so I'm glad my ridiculous sketchbook buying habit can be helpful at least 😆 Hahaha that's the only thing, I for sure need an enabling alert on this channel because it's guaranteed your art supply wish list will get longer by being subscribed 😂
Great video as usual Katie, thank you. I like how clear you are on it being based around your personal preferences and giving quite accurate pro & cons. We're all a bit Goldilocks-esque with the things we like. I very much agree about your Royal Talens in position #2. I love it for pencil and pen work (including watercolour pencils, Neocolour IIs & inktense), but when using regular watercolours and alcohol markers, the paper buckles a bit. Before watching this video, about a month ago, I had ordered a Pith Cara-Cara at 14x21cm. The paper does seem to be the same on both sides, with a light tooth. I haven't started work on it yet as my intention is for this book to be the first draft of a manga. I'm still using the Talens for concept work.
Thank you so much Tim, what a wonderful comment to read! Totally agree, I think it keeps the art world so much more interesting knowing every artist creates differently and has different preferences 😄 Good luck with your manga!
One thing I noticed here is that you answered all of your responses! I don’t need a response but just wanted to say I have struggled finding a sketchbook I can stick with these days. I honestly have some very old ones that I keep turning to and wish I could go back in time to order them in bulk. Not much info to add about them but some work w pencil drawings and I love the way I want to use them and constantly turn to them. Regarding watercolor, I feel I haven’t found even one I like above all and don’t really have any I’d turn to because I love them. I have recently begun using neos (and Woodys, of all things) and I’m learning there is a definite difference for those when using different textured papers. Still working out which I like more because I lean toward smooth, matte sketchbook paper sometimes and at other times a good toothy WC paper. I love experimenting but can’t sketch often enough to know what I like. I sure do know what I do NOT like, though. Lol. Thanks for this video. I’ve now started a list of descriptives to use for rating books I want to try and those I already have. I feel this will work great for me as I can’t work often like many can. Maybe I can see patterns quicker that way. So your video was very helpful in getting me a track toward good information. THANKS!
Always love hearing from other artists and replying to comments! 🤗 Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, so interesting to hear! I find that knowing what you DON'T like is super helpful though, it really helps narrow things down and is often easier than deciding what we do 😆 You could always a couple of go-to sketchbooks, one for your watercolours and with a rougher paper that can take more water, and another with smoother paper for other work! I can't ever make up my mind which is why I have so many, but they're all perfect for different mediums 😄 So glad the video was helpful for you and good luck! 💜
I’ve spent 4 years looking for the best sketchbook. I recently discovered the strathmore 500 softcover mixed media and fell in love. I found them on sale and bought five 😂😂 I knew right away this was going to be the one and I haven’t been disappointed.
Love my Strathmore 500 series and Hahnemuhle books the best.I did not love Stillman & Birn Zeta or Beta at all. I still have to work up the courage to try my Etchr books.
Ooh which Hahnemuhle books do you recommend? I think once you’ve started the Etchr it might feel easier to continue but totally understand the hesitation! 💛
That strathmore is one of my favorites, too. They're drawing sketchbook in that format is also awesome. I wish I liked the royal talens. I like the etchr every day hot press for my fancy sketchbook . I did lime the epsilon by stilllman and birn, which is like the zeta but thinner. I prefer the alpha, though. I'm currently using the beechmore, which is slightly better than the talens. It doesn't do great with watercolor markers if you go over them with water a lot .it'll bleed through, but it doesn't feel super precious bc there are 156 pages, I think?
Oh that's great to know about their drawing sketchbook too! I've not heard of the beechmore - that is totally new to me! Having more pages definitely helps me not to feel precious with a sketchbook, though there's also that balance of having SO much more to fill 😆
Thank you so much for creating this video! I find your observations and preferences to be very insightful and helpful! Between the sketchbooks that you rated here in this video (or any others), which one do you recommend for combining alcohol markers (which work better on smoother, less absorbent paper) and watercolors (which usually work best on paper that can handle a good amount of water). I also use colored pencils for details, so the paper will probably need a tiny amount of tooth to it as well. What do you recommend? :) Thank you so much!
Thank you so much for your comment, I'm so glad the video was helpful! I don't personally use alcohol markers, but I would probably go for a heavier gsm which is also what I use for watercolours. The Strathmore mixed media sketchbook could work well for both as it has a bit of a tooth but not too much! The Stilman & Birn Zeta would probably work best for alcohol markers, though I found it too smooth for watercolours. I don't think the markers would bleed through as the paper is so thick. I don't know if there's going to be a perfect sketchbook that ticks both options but these would be my suggestions based on my sketchbooks! 💜
@@KatieMoody Ah, thank you so much for responding! I really appreciate it! :D I'll have to give both sketchbooks a try and see which one works better for combining the two mediums. Thank you so much for your recommendations!
It’s thanks to you that I discovered and fell in love with the Art Creations sketchbook so thank you! We don’t get them in South Africa but whenever someone I know is coming here from Europe I get them to bring me at least 2 😂😂
I bought a pile of sketchbooks to use over the next year. Hoping to experiment and play more (especially when your book comes out 😁). Got a couple of Pith ones, a hot press Etchr one, some concertina ones and the S&B zeta which I'll probably like as smoother paper tends to work best for me. I don't need to buy another sketchbook for a very looooooooong time!
The Stillman & Birn Zeta series is currently my favorite. I prefer the smooth bright white paper for watercolor and various pens, and I like that it comes in a square format. Good thing there are so many options!
Lol… Yes I too liked Katie’s “cold goosebumps” way to remember which paper is which! 👌🏼😂 Up until now I’ve been thinking of a “hot” iron creates a “smooth” surface ~ that’s how I’ve been remembering the difference! 🤪😊
I agree about the Stilman & Birn Zeta, and prefer their Beta sketchbooks. I have a Royal Talens, small square sketchbook but hardly use it. And like you, my number one favorite is the Strathmore Watercolor 500 series softcover in all sizes. I also recently discovered the Canson Graduate Multimedia series and Watercolor series. The Multimedia is 200gsm and the paper has just the slightest tooth. The Watercolor is 250 gsm and is one of those that has the cold press on one side and the smoother surface on the other. Not the best but affordable. I like the Multimedia better.
Super helpful to hear, thanks Paula! Glad it's not just me being a Goldilocks with that paper 😅 I keep seeing the Canson sketchbooks being used lately, they seem like a great alternative for their price so it's great to hear your thoughts!
@@KatieMoody I've wasn't wild about Canson until they came out with the Graduate series, probably partly because I didn't like the ring binding. But the Graduate sketchbooks? Those I like.
@@KatieMoodyI wasn’t able to find a canson with the right paper that wasn’t spiral bound (judging by the fact you have none and like full page spreads I’m going to assume you loathe them too!). But I bought a 1 side gummed pad of the ‘imagine’ mixed media paper because it seemed to have that Goldilocks level of tooth and look thick enough for watercolour (I really haven’t put it through its paces yet) and I’ve toyed with the idea of making my own sketchbook. My dad also brought a tonne of big sheets of Baohong over from China for me too (I know, lucky me! But I’m not actually quite sure what to do with it now!) so I’ve even contemplated making a frankensketchbook with mixed media in the front, watercolour in the back. Maybe even something lower gsm for the ‘workings’ or scribbles too! Not sure how well the 300gsm Baohong will hold in a sketchbook though it’s so thick. I’ve even saved two AKT deodorant packets for the canson imagine because I find their bright colours and cardstock really pleasing and thought I might make a little (14cm) travel or mini project sketchbook using them as covers. But so many projects so little time you know… so they’ve just sat on my shelf for months! One thing I do highly recommend making though is a pocket to stick on the inside of the back cover for any bits and bobs you have loose, if your sketchbook doesn’t have one (looking at you royal talens!) - I’ve started carrying a bit of laminated paper in there too to act as a brush pen palette. They’re super easy to make but if you haven’t done it before I’m happy to explain how it’s done if you’re in need of pockets 😊
A great overview, Katie! One of the issues for me is finding sketchbooks without animal products, which is my preference. Who would have thought that would be hard? Pith are good, and Etcher, and quite a few others, but I do find it limits my range. But luckily I have WAY TOO MANY on the go already, hahaha. So it will be some time before a need another. Thanks for this great video, I enjoyed a few peaks of the spreads you do on Patreon in them. 😉
Thank you so much, Jos! Oh I bet, and also trying to find that at a reasonable price too! Hahaha I can totally relate to having too many on the go 🙈 Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts 🧡
Thanks so much!! I’ve recently bought my first Talens sketchbook but don’t like the ivory paper colour so I found this video very helpful!! I didn’t realise how hard it is to find the “perfect” sketchbook when I started drawing again about a year ago 😂😂😂❤
If anyone hates the softcover of the Strathmore but loves the 500 paper, their Mixed Media Visual Journal (spiral bound, hardboard cover) has the same paper. I think it’s cheaper than the softcover version too 😊
I love the Strathmore Mixed Media Visual Journal, and the Visual Watercolor journal too (both spiral bound, and not to be confused with the Strathmore Vision series).
I love this! Funnily enough, I’ve been considering getting some bigger Royal Talens sketchbooks since I have the little square one and love it. Maybe this is a sign that I should!! I also have heard such good things about your number one and am considering it if I start painting more often!
Thank you so much Lauren! Yes I highly recommend it, I love all sizes of the Royal Talens! And if you find the A5 one begins to feel too limiting, you can go even bigger again 😄
I just bought the Strathmore mixed media sketchbook. Mine doesn't seem to lay flat as it looks like they used too much glue on the spine. The paper is amazing though.
We all have different needs, thus different favorite supplies. I recently discovered the "UglyBook" sketchbooks. They are crazily expensive for what they are, but I had the best colored pencil experience ever on one. Won't buy it again (because price, yikes), but glad I tried it, both to have an enjoyable experience and salve my curiosity.
Exactly that! I love that artists work so differently, and one thing I might dislike would be their dream material! I’ve not heard of UglyBook before, sounds so interesting! Glad you enjoyed using it even if it’s not a re-buy 😊
Interesting that you rated the yellow paper royal talens ahead of white, I used it for peachtober and whilst the paper isn't great, I prefer white just because the yellow is so strange 😂 also would love to try the perfect sketchbook but it's super expensive
Katie, you are my sketchbook enabler 😂 I have old stock Pith Orablanco and it’s such a pretty sketchbook but damn the paper is like a sponge! Brush pen does look quite cool with the texture coming through, but it’s quite a thirsty paper :/ Curious about the Cara Cara… not that I need any more bloody sketchbooks LOL 😅
Hahaha I wear that enabler badge with pride 🤣 Very true, I'm getting used to that paper now and don't hate brush pens on it, but it did take a while! Hahaha the Cara Cara is much better... and apologies in advance for future purchasing 😆
I'm sad you don't love the Stillman and Birn, but yeah, that paper is super smooth! It took me a long time to get used to it, and now I love it. Though watercolor definitely does not sink in. Their beta series cold press ones are really nice, but I'm not sure if they would be too toothy for you or not. I really like them for watercolor, but they aren't going to match true cotton watercolor paper by any means. I'm learning to like the Royal Talens--at first I was really put off by the strong ivory color and the flimsy-ish paper. I think it's all a matter of taste and what works with your method and materials and it's so fun and interesting to hear and see about what other people use and how they use it.
I can totally see the advantages, I think it's just such a stark difference for me compared to all my other sketchbooks! A lot of people are recommending the S&B Alpha series so that's on my list to try out next. Definitely agree about the Royal Talens paper! It took me a while to get used to the ivory tone and now I love it 😂
That's so funny to see Stilman & Birn mentioned! I just dug out the one sketchbook I have by them and I like it a lot. Mine is about 8x10 Gamma series - it has ivory-toned paper with a slight tooth...i only ever used graphite pencil in it so not sure how it does with watercolor...the texture is slightly rougher than Royal Talens.
I have filled a bunch of the Pith sketchbooks now, and I can't say I have noticed a difference in the paper stock. I thought they were all the same but just different sizes - so maybe they DID change the paper at some point 🤔 The Stathmore has such lovely paper but i found it hard to lay flat. Have you tried the other etchr sketchbook? The one with the white cloth cover - I really like that one but it's pricey too! I could talk about sketchbooks all day 😂😂
My Cara Cara and Oroblanco is like night and day on paper, so I reckon you're all good with yours! I spoke to Pith and they confirmed the paper stock change, but it was a while ago now that they swapped over! I've not tried any other Etchr sketchbooks, I think the price would make me too daunted to use it 😆
Interesting video! I have 2 Oroblanco sketchbooks. Absolutely loved the first one, did great with watercolours. The second one was awful, even though I got them at the same time. Such a pity!
Oooh that is so interesting!! I wonder if you had one with the bad paper! The Cara Cara is great for watercolour so sounds more similar to your first Oroblanco! What a shame, it makes it so hard to know whether to buy it again
@KatieMoody I'm thinking it was bad paper, but such a pity. I would've bought more Pith sketchbooks without hesitation if my second one didn't disappoint so much.
I have tried all 0f these. Just paid $72.00 for the Etchr Perfect sketchbook….However, I tried the Beechmore sketchbooks. They are really good, they handled all of my water and paint. Excellent paging, you feel like you are receiving something really high end, yet more affordable than etcher. Definitely worth trying, hope that’s a help for someone.
Hi Katie. I do think your Pith Oroblanco may be old stock. I feel like it got a rough review lol. I use inks, Pitt brush markers, acrylic inks, pretty much everything in mine, and it's not going straight through. Pith have become my favourite sketchbooks, and I do have alot of different brands, but I'm finding they're sitting in my cabinet .... unloved. We all have our preferences. Thanks for this video x Nell.
Definitely seem to have one with bad paper because it definitely struggles with some mediums! And compared to the Cara Cara it really is like night and day. I'll be definitely be re-buying that one but too wary of another 'old stock' oroblanco to chance it! So glad you love yours 💜 Thanks for sharing Nell!
This will take the mystery out of which notebook is the right one for many viewers. There are so many to choose from and your video will make it easier for people to make a smart decision for themselves.
Thanks Katie!!😘
Thanks dear Kathy 🥰 Happy to share my knowledge and hopefully take some guess work out of sketchbook buying! 💜
@ … it can be daunting deciding which is the best ones to buy!!🥰
I’m with you on the ‘precious’ Katie. I have so many sketch books and tend to only grab the cheapest ones while the nicer more expensive ones sit on the shelf. If I’m not going to work on a planned ‘masterpiece’ then why ruin the book? lol! Such a silly way of thinking but it actually frees me up to throw anything on the paper and see what happens when I’m working in the less ‘precious’ books. 😊
Haha yes exactly this! I think we can be a bit more playful and free when we know the art supplies we're using don't cost a fortune. It definitely is a factor in art making even though all supplies are made to be used 🙈 Glad you can relate with me! 💛
I also love the Strathmore Mixed Media journals in both the hardcover and softcovers! The 500 Series Mixed Media paper is FANTASTIC! It's truly perfect for mixed media as it's the only paper I've found that watercolor, gouache and colored pencil ALL perform equally well on. My only gripes are that 1. the journal covers age terribly, and 2. I wish they offered it in an A6 or pocket size that I could keep as my EDC sketchbook. Right now I'm carrying a pocket-sized Stillman & Birn Alpha which is a paper that I tolerate rather than love.
Totally agree! I've definitely found my soft cover got battered and beat up really easily, interesting that you find the same out the hard cover too! More sizes for the 500 series would be perfect 🙌🏻
@@KatieMoody Yes. The hardcover sketchbook doesn't get banged up like the softcover, one but there's a coating on it that starts to peel. I've been working in one since 2021 and it definitely looks worn in 😂 like it's been touched entirely too many times. But I still love it!
@@CeruleanCzarina At least it's clear it's very well loved! 😄
Get a pad of the strathmore 500 mixed media paper and make your own A6
@@PaintIt4Ward Unfortunately, the 90 lb paper used in the journals doesn't come in pads or smaller sheets, at least not as far as I know. If you have a source please let me know! However, I did buy the large 22x30 inch sheets to make a custom journal, but I just noticed that they've discontinued the four-pack of this paper on Blick. I'm worried they're going to stop making the big sheets altogether so I bought extra. So please let me know where you've seen the pads because the only other smaller sheets that I've seen are all Heavyweight.
Katie, A Ranger Dylusions sketchbook would be life changing for you! I was sad not to see that as one of your favorites! Ultra thick pages and 64 pages in the large sketchbook, 48 in the small and 48 in the square version. I definitely suggest this as a sketchbook that is great for any media (inks, watercolor, gouache, acrylic, pencil, neocolor, etc.-even in several layers...) comes in 3 sizes and also in an all black (black pages) in a square version. They are fabulous! Thanks so much for sharing your recommendations; I really enjoyed it!
I’ve just looked this one up coz it sounded so good. But I don’t think they’re really sold in the UK so they’re quite expensive to buy online from random shops!
I just ordered a Christmas mystery pack from ranger. Hope there's a Dylusions sketchbook in it, because now I'm super curious. I'll have to try it if I get a chance. Thanks for the idea.
Thank you so much Crystal, that sounds like a fab sketchbook! It's not one I see very often so I'd be keen to give it a go. Thanks so much for watching and sharing your recommendation! 💛
@@geeniejay1710 Maybe you could use the fake one: Vaessen Creative Stamp Journal. I really liked it, but bought the big one, A4 and it was too heavy to take it out on plan air painting sessions. But it was much cheaper than the original Dylusions.
Very helpful- thank you! The Strathmore is among my favorite too.
Thank you Julie! So glad you love it too!
What a great way to remember cold and hot press! I‘m a new (but old) artist (love watercolor, but am beginning to love mixed media. I like the Bee Creative 100% cotton 130/300 sketchbooks. They are hard to find now, though so I started using Viviva, however, I prefer spiral bound now at this point in my art journey. I learn so much from you, Katie- thanks.
Oh I'm so glad, thank you so much for your lovely comment! I've not heard of the Bee Creative sketchbooks, that's such a shame they're tricky to find when you find one that works for you! 💜
I was a watercolorist first and now I'm getting into mixed media. But Etchr regular white cover sketchbook was I think my 3rd sketchbook to try . I don't know if it uses different paper than their Perfect sketchbook , but my experience only using watercolors on the Etchr paper is that it takes the watercolor paint and really dulls the color down compared to other watercolor paper. I've used 2 sketchbooks from them - the ones with the white cover just different sizes and both sketchbooks had this effect with the watercolors. I'm actually not sure why it's rated so high amongst watercolor users - because it really messes with the vibrancy of watercolors. Take note that I'm used to expensive high GSM 100% cotton paper, so that's what I'm comparing it to - particularly since etchr is also 100% cotton and quite pricy
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, so helpful! I've not used any other Etchr sketchbooks so can't comment on those, but this is really interesting to read! I wonder if anyone has done a comparison here on UA-cam with the Etchr sketchbooks and compared them to other ones with 100% cotton paper!
I would agree on the Etchr sketchbooks. I have used both the white cover sketchbook and black cover Perfect sketchbook. I thought it was just me who had this experience since they are so highly praised by so many. They are nice, (but pricey) and they are 100% cotton but I too think watercolors (regardless of paint brand) look duller on the Etchr sketchbook paper. I've not seen anyone compare the Etchr sketchbooks with other 100% cotton sketchbooks specifically for watercolors but it would be interesting. I just finished filling my Etchr sketchbook so maybe I can see if there is any difference with the next 100% cotton sketchbook. I've too just recently ventured into Mixed Media so not sure when I'll start a 100% cotton sketchbook using just watercolor.
I have a theory... I might be wrong, but I feel like they use the Baohong student grade paper in the Etchr sketchbook (white cover), I think that it's just repackaged and bound together. Why? Well, I noticed exactly what you did - the colours dull down A LOT. After pondering for a while I suddenly understood that I know this effect from another 100% cotton paper I use which comes from the Chinese brand Baohong. I took both Etchr and Baohong and made a little test at the same time using the same watercolours - and I swear, the results looked shockingly identical. Since then I'm a believer 😂 But Baohong, at least, is much cheaper...
@@k.b.1996 That's very interesting. I have a Baohong block that I have not tried yet. I'll have to give it a go and see if I experience the same thing. If the experience is the same, you're right, at least the Baohong is cheaper. 🙂Thanks for sharing your observation.
@@cj_kirby if you try it, I'll be extremely interested in your results! My test was on the hot press paper for both Baohong and Etchr. I do have the coldpress baohong, but not etchr, so for this type of paper, I can't vouch, but for hot press - yes! Please report back, I'm super interested!
Great review! You always inspire me to use my sketchbooks.
Aaah I'm so glad to heard that! Thank you so much 🥰
Awe that was very sweet of you Katie to make mention of me in your video!😃🤭
Thx for another great video ~ I love these comparisons/pros & cons types of videos as it really helps us viewers to narrow down the multitude of choices out there to try out! I’ve now added your new fave Strathmore 500 Series to my ever growing wish list, along with several gouaches & Tombow dual markers (both of which I’ve not yet tried;) since I’ve started watching your videos!! 🤭💸🤪📚🎨💚
Of course Fab, thank you for taking the time to help with all the different S+B ranges! For sure, there are so many different variations out there so I'm glad my ridiculous sketchbook buying habit can be helpful at least 😆 Hahaha that's the only thing, I for sure need an enabling alert on this channel because it's guaranteed your art supply wish list will get longer by being subscribed 😂
I just pre-ordered your book! ❤
Aaah thank you so so much! 🥰
Great video as usual Katie, thank you.
I like how clear you are on it being based around your personal preferences and giving quite accurate pro & cons. We're all a bit Goldilocks-esque with the things we like.
I very much agree about your Royal Talens in position #2. I love it for pencil and pen work (including watercolour pencils, Neocolour IIs & inktense), but when using regular watercolours and alcohol markers, the paper buckles a bit.
Before watching this video, about a month ago, I had ordered a Pith Cara-Cara at 14x21cm. The paper does seem to be the same on both sides, with a light tooth. I haven't started work on it yet as my intention is for this book to be the first draft of a manga. I'm still using the Talens for concept work.
Thank you so much Tim, what a wonderful comment to read! Totally agree, I think it keeps the art world so much more interesting knowing every artist creates differently and has different preferences 😄 Good luck with your manga!
@@KatieMoody Thank you :)
Try the stillman and birn Alpha series sketchbook, you will love it 😊
Thanks so much for the rec! A lot of other comments echo this so guess I'll need to add another sketchbook to the collection 😄
One thing I noticed here is that you answered all of your responses! I don’t need a response but just wanted to say I have struggled finding a sketchbook I can stick with these days. I honestly have some very old ones that I keep turning to and wish I could go back in time to order them in bulk. Not much info to add about them but some work w pencil drawings and I love the way I want to use them and constantly turn to them. Regarding watercolor, I feel I haven’t found even one I like above all and don’t really have any I’d turn to because I love them. I have recently begun using neos (and Woodys, of all things) and I’m learning there is a definite difference for those when using different textured papers. Still working out which I like more because I lean toward smooth, matte sketchbook paper sometimes and at other times a good toothy WC paper. I love experimenting but can’t sketch often enough to know what I like. I sure do know what I do NOT like, though. Lol. Thanks for this video. I’ve now started a list of descriptives to use for rating books I want to try and those I already have. I feel this will work great for me as I can’t work often like many can. Maybe I can see patterns quicker that way. So your video was very helpful in getting me a track toward good information. THANKS!
Always love hearing from other artists and replying to comments! 🤗 Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, so interesting to hear! I find that knowing what you DON'T like is super helpful though, it really helps narrow things down and is often easier than deciding what we do 😆 You could always a couple of go-to sketchbooks, one for your watercolours and with a rougher paper that can take more water, and another with smoother paper for other work! I can't ever make up my mind which is why I have so many, but they're all perfect for different mediums 😄 So glad the video was helpful for you and good luck! 💜
I wish my local Michael’s store had a smaller version of the strathmore because I like it !
Would be so great if they expanded that range!
Stillman and Birn! I like the alpha in particular, but I highly recommend you try the beta! If you want slightly less thick paper go for the alpha.
Brilliant, thank you so much for the rec! 💜
I’ve spent 4 years looking for the best sketchbook. I recently discovered the strathmore 500 softcover mixed media and fell in love. I found them on sale and bought five 😂😂 I knew right away this was going to be the one and I haven’t been disappointed.
Oh my gosh I don't blame you, wish it would come on sale here as I'd stock up too 🤣 So glad you've found your perfect sketchbook! 🥳
Love my Strathmore 500 series and Hahnemuhle books the best.I did not love Stillman & Birn Zeta or Beta at all. I still have to work up the courage to try my Etchr books.
Ooh which Hahnemuhle books do you recommend? I think once you’ve started the Etchr it might feel easier to continue but totally understand the hesitation! 💛
That strathmore is one of my favorites, too. They're drawing sketchbook in that format is also awesome. I wish I liked the royal talens. I like the etchr every day hot press for my fancy sketchbook .
I did lime the epsilon by stilllman and birn, which is like the zeta but thinner. I prefer the alpha, though.
I'm currently using the beechmore, which is slightly better than the talens. It doesn't do great with watercolor markers if you go over them with water a lot .it'll bleed through, but it doesn't feel super precious bc there are 156 pages, I think?
Oh that's great to know about their drawing sketchbook too! I've not heard of the beechmore - that is totally new to me! Having more pages definitely helps me not to feel precious with a sketchbook, though there's also that balance of having SO much more to fill 😆
Thank you so much for creating this video! I find your observations and preferences to be very insightful and helpful! Between the sketchbooks that you rated here in this video (or any others), which one do you recommend for combining alcohol markers (which work better on smoother, less absorbent paper) and watercolors (which usually work best on paper that can handle a good amount of water). I also use colored pencils for details, so the paper will probably need a tiny amount of tooth to it as well. What do you recommend? :) Thank you so much!
Thank you so much for your comment, I'm so glad the video was helpful! I don't personally use alcohol markers, but I would probably go for a heavier gsm which is also what I use for watercolours. The Strathmore mixed media sketchbook could work well for both as it has a bit of a tooth but not too much! The Stilman & Birn Zeta would probably work best for alcohol markers, though I found it too smooth for watercolours. I don't think the markers would bleed through as the paper is so thick. I don't know if there's going to be a perfect sketchbook that ticks both options but these would be my suggestions based on my sketchbooks! 💜
@@KatieMoody Ah, thank you so much for responding! I really appreciate it! :D I'll have to give both sketchbooks a try and see which one works better for combining the two mediums. Thank you so much for your recommendations!
It’s thanks to you that I discovered and fell in love with the Art Creations sketchbook so thank you! We don’t get them in South Africa but whenever someone I know is coming here from Europe I get them to bring me at least 2 😂😂
Haha that's a great idea, Laura!! Gotta get your Talens fix somehow 😆 So glad you love them as much as I do! 💜
I bought a pile of sketchbooks to use over the next year. Hoping to experiment and play more (especially when your book comes out 😁). Got a couple of Pith ones, a hot press Etchr one, some concertina ones and the S&B zeta which I'll probably like as smoother paper tends to work best for me. I don't need to buy another sketchbook for a very looooooooong time!
Oooh what a good idea Emma, plenty of choice for you in 2025! Excited to see what you create! 💜
The Stillman & Birn Zeta series is currently my favorite. I prefer the smooth bright white paper for watercolor and various pens, and I like that it comes in a square format. Good thing there are so many options!
For sure, they seem to have a really wide range which is fantastic to have so many options! 😄
thanks for sharing Katie !!
Thanks for watching! 🥰
12 years working in watercolours and I still can't remember which is hot and which is cold-pressed 😆 Now I'll remember.
Lol… Yes I too liked Katie’s “cold goosebumps” way to remember which paper is which! 👌🏼😂
Up until now I’ve been thinking of a “hot” iron creates a “smooth” surface ~ that’s how I’ve been remembering the difference! 🤪😊
@@fabd8067 Oh that's good too!
Haha so glad it helps! I love Fab's suggestion of the iron too, now I'll never forget as I have a way to remember both hot and cold 😂
I agree about the Stilman & Birn Zeta, and prefer their Beta sketchbooks. I have a Royal Talens, small square sketchbook but hardly use it. And like you, my number one favorite is the Strathmore Watercolor 500 series softcover in all sizes. I also recently discovered the Canson Graduate Multimedia series and Watercolor series. The Multimedia is 200gsm and the paper has just the slightest tooth. The Watercolor is 250 gsm and is one of those that has the cold press on one side and the smoother surface on the other. Not the best but affordable. I like the Multimedia better.
Super helpful to hear, thanks Paula! Glad it's not just me being a Goldilocks with that paper 😅 I keep seeing the Canson sketchbooks being used lately, they seem like a great alternative for their price so it's great to hear your thoughts!
@@KatieMoody I've wasn't wild about Canson until they came out with the Graduate series, probably partly because I didn't like the ring binding. But the Graduate sketchbooks? Those I like.
@@KatieMoodyI wasn’t able to find a canson with the right paper that wasn’t spiral bound (judging by the fact you have none and like full page spreads I’m going to assume you loathe them too!). But I bought a 1 side gummed pad of the ‘imagine’ mixed media paper because it seemed to have that Goldilocks level of tooth and look thick enough for watercolour (I really haven’t put it through its paces yet) and I’ve toyed with the idea of making my own sketchbook. My dad also brought a tonne of big sheets of Baohong over from China for me too (I know, lucky me! But I’m not actually quite sure what to do with it now!) so I’ve even contemplated making a frankensketchbook with mixed media in the front, watercolour in the back. Maybe even something lower gsm for the ‘workings’ or scribbles too! Not sure how well the 300gsm Baohong will hold in a sketchbook though it’s so thick. I’ve even saved two AKT deodorant packets for the canson imagine because I find their bright colours and cardstock really pleasing and thought I might make a little (14cm) travel or mini project sketchbook using them as covers. But so many projects so little time you know… so they’ve just sat on my shelf for months!
One thing I do highly recommend making though is a pocket to stick on the inside of the back cover for any bits and bobs you have loose, if your sketchbook doesn’t have one (looking at you royal talens!) - I’ve started carrying a bit of laminated paper in there too to act as a brush pen palette. They’re super easy to make but if you haven’t done it before I’m happy to explain how it’s done if you’re in need of pockets 😊
A great overview, Katie! One of the issues for me is finding sketchbooks without animal products, which is my preference. Who would have thought that would be hard? Pith are good, and Etcher, and quite a few others, but I do find it limits my range. But luckily I have WAY TOO MANY on the go already, hahaha. So it will be some time before a need another. Thanks for this great video, I enjoyed a few peaks of the spreads you do on Patreon in them. 😉
Thank you so much, Jos! Oh I bet, and also trying to find that at a reasonable price too! Hahaha I can totally relate to having too many on the go 🙈 Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts 🧡
Thanks so much!! I’ve recently bought my first Talens sketchbook but don’t like the ivory paper colour so I found this video very helpful!! I didn’t realise how hard it is to find the “perfect” sketchbook when I started drawing again about a year ago 😂😂😂❤
My pleasure, thanks for watching! Hahah totally, my perfect sketchbook quest feels lifelong 🤣
If anyone hates the softcover of the Strathmore but loves the 500 paper, their Mixed Media Visual Journal (spiral bound, hardboard cover) has the same paper. I think it’s cheaper than the softcover version too 😊
I love the Strathmore Mixed Media Visual Journal, and the Visual Watercolor journal too (both spiral bound, and not to be confused with the Strathmore Vision series).
@@piperspurpose3005oh I’ve not tried the watercolour visual journal! Is it 100% cotton like the mixed media version?
Thanks so much for sharing this Laws! I'm not a fan of spiral binding but I know many prefer it, so this will be a big help!
I love this! Funnily enough, I’ve been considering getting some bigger Royal Talens sketchbooks since I have the little square one and love it. Maybe this is a sign that I should!!
I also have heard such good things about your number one and am considering it if I start painting more often!
Thank you so much Lauren! Yes I highly recommend it, I love all sizes of the Royal Talens! And if you find the A5 one begins to feel too limiting, you can go even bigger again 😄
I just bought the Strathmore mixed media sketchbook. Mine doesn't seem to lay flat as it looks like they used too much glue on the spine. The paper is amazing though.
I've found the spine definitely softens with time - my full sketchbook now lies much flatter than my new one!
Excellent review and vey helpful!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it 🤗
I'm a beginner and can't get lots of sketch books but love Clarefontaine one.
Yes that's such a good one! It feels like a good all rounder 😊
We all have different needs, thus different favorite supplies. I recently discovered the "UglyBook" sketchbooks. They are crazily expensive for what they are, but I had the best colored pencil experience ever on one. Won't buy it again (because price, yikes), but glad I tried it, both to have an enjoyable experience and salve my curiosity.
Exactly that! I love that artists work so differently, and one thing I might dislike would be their dream material! I’ve not heard of UglyBook before, sounds so interesting! Glad you enjoyed using it even if it’s not a re-buy 😊
You’ve made me excited to try the Cara Cara and the strathmore now!! Have you ever used the leuchtturm1917 sketchbook?
So glad to hear! And no I haven't tried it! Would you recommend? 😄
@ it’s very white but definitely up there for me with using wet media and mixed media! I’d love to know what you think of them :)
Interesting that you rated the yellow paper royal talens ahead of white, I used it for peachtober and whilst the paper isn't great, I prefer white just because the yellow is so strange 😂 also would love to try the perfect sketchbook but it's super expensive
I really love the warmth it brings to my art, I kind of miss it when I use the white paper 😅 Definitely my comfort-zone sketchbook!
Katie, you are my sketchbook enabler 😂 I have old stock Pith Orablanco and it’s such a pretty sketchbook but damn the paper is like a sponge! Brush pen does look quite cool with the texture coming through, but it’s quite a thirsty paper :/ Curious about the Cara Cara… not that I need any more bloody sketchbooks LOL 😅
Hahaha I wear that enabler badge with pride 🤣 Very true, I'm getting used to that paper now and don't hate brush pens on it, but it did take a while! Hahaha the Cara Cara is much better... and apologies in advance for future purchasing 😆
I'm sad you don't love the Stillman and Birn, but yeah, that paper is super smooth! It took me a long time to get used to it, and now I love it. Though watercolor definitely does not sink in. Their beta series cold press ones are really nice, but I'm not sure if they would be too toothy for you or not. I really like them for watercolor, but they aren't going to match true cotton watercolor paper by any means. I'm learning to like the Royal Talens--at first I was really put off by the strong ivory color and the flimsy-ish paper. I think it's all a matter of taste and what works with your method and materials and it's so fun and interesting to hear and see about what other people use and how they use it.
I can totally see the advantages, I think it's just such a stark difference for me compared to all my other sketchbooks! A lot of people are recommending the S&B Alpha series so that's on my list to try out next. Definitely agree about the Royal Talens paper! It took me a while to get used to the ivory tone and now I love it 😂
That's so funny to see Stilman & Birn mentioned! I just dug out the one sketchbook I have by them and I like it a lot. Mine is about 8x10 Gamma series - it has ivory-toned paper with a slight tooth...i only ever used graphite pencil in it so not sure how it does with watercolor...the texture is slightly rougher than Royal Talens.
Oooh that's great to know, thanks for sharing info about the Gamma S+B range! I do love ivory-toned paper so this sounds like a great option 😄
Gamma is the only S&B I will use. I like it in the 7x10 inch spiral format.
I have filled a bunch of the Pith sketchbooks now, and I can't say I have noticed a difference in the paper stock. I thought they were all the same but just different sizes - so maybe they DID change the paper at some point 🤔 The Stathmore has such lovely paper but i found it hard to lay flat. Have you tried the other etchr sketchbook? The one with the white cloth cover - I really like that one but it's pricey too! I could talk about sketchbooks all day 😂😂
My Cara Cara and Oroblanco is like night and day on paper, so I reckon you're all good with yours! I spoke to Pith and they confirmed the paper stock change, but it was a while ago now that they swapped over! I've not tried any other Etchr sketchbooks, I think the price would make me too daunted to use it 😆
Thoroughly enjoy your channel! Texas, 🇺🇸
Thank you so very much! 🥰
I love the strathmore!! I just noticed that they sell a smaller size (comparable to the royal talens you showed) I just bought it and am loving it!
Oooh do they! That’s good information 😆🤗 thank you!
Interesting video!
I have 2 Oroblanco sketchbooks. Absolutely loved the first one, did great with watercolours. The second one was awful, even though I got them at the same time. Such a pity!
Oooh that is so interesting!! I wonder if you had one with the bad paper! The Cara Cara is great for watercolour so sounds more similar to your first Oroblanco! What a shame, it makes it so hard to know whether to buy it again
@KatieMoody I'm thinking it was bad paper, but such a pity. I would've bought more Pith sketchbooks without hesitation if my second one didn't disappoint so much.
Thank you, that was really useful information xx
Glad it was helpful! Thank you so much for watching 🥰
I have tried all 0f these. Just paid $72.00 for the Etchr Perfect sketchbook….However, I tried the Beechmore sketchbooks. They are really good, they handled all of my water and paint. Excellent paging, you feel like you are receiving something really high end, yet more affordable than etcher. Definitely worth trying, hope that’s a help for someone.
Oooh another commenter mentioned Beechmore, I've not heard of them before now! That sounds like a great middle ground, thanks so much for sharing!
Hi Katie. I do think your Pith Oroblanco may be old stock. I feel like it got a rough review lol. I use inks, Pitt brush markers, acrylic inks, pretty much everything in mine, and it's not going straight through. Pith have become my favourite sketchbooks, and I do have alot of different brands, but I'm finding they're sitting in my cabinet .... unloved. We all have our preferences. Thanks for this video x Nell.
Definitely seem to have one with bad paper because it definitely struggles with some mediums! And compared to the Cara Cara it really is like night and day. I'll be definitely be re-buying that one but too wary of another 'old stock' oroblanco to chance it! So glad you love yours 💜 Thanks for sharing Nell!
Katie, that Strathmore mixed media sketchbook comes in a hardback option!! ❤ Courtney
Yes. Just bought one recently through Blick.
Thanks Courtney! Will keep that in mind next time! 💜
Thank you for your review on the white royal talens. I was tempted when I heard it was out there but it sounds like it won't work for me
My pleasure! It definitely didn't live up to the hype in my opinion, especially when I throw so much at my sketchbook pages 😆
They changed the paper in the PITH sketchbooks because people were complaining about them so your Oroblanco likely has the old paper 👍
Thanks Tony! I reached out to them and they said it's highly unlikely as they changed it almost three years ago now - but I think that must be it!
💙💙💚💚🎀🎀🩷
Thanks Joan! 💛
I love the way colored pencil drawings look on the Royal Talens but I don’t like them at all for watercolor.
Totally agree! It definitely doesn't handle lots of water well which is a shame, though I have plenty of other sketchbooks to use for that 😆