Studio Series A6 Field Sketchbook

Product Information

The way in which you work will also affect your paper decision – but that needs a separate article. When I travel I want to use watercolour paper but I prefer paper made with wood pulp and a little bit of cotton, rather than 100% cotton paper. (I need to write a separate article about this!) I LOVE an A5 or B5 format landscape, and almost never reach for anything else, though I always have an A4 landscape in rotation. I recently was given a Portrait B5 and while I loved the size, the shape was torture! I love a square (the architect in me?), and they are a second choice for me, both loose paper and sketchbook, but only for in-studio sketching.

I prefer to be working on only one sketchbook at a time because I’m creating a narrative of my life. When I travel I do use A4 hardcover sketchbooks, but as sketching is my main focus, I normally roam the streets holding the book in my hands! Softcover works well as I often use a support board for my book, paint tin and water container, and this board means that any floppiness in the cover is not an issue. I also do a lot of cafe sketching in my everyday life!I’m not a fan of the light coloured fabric covers (Handbook, Etchr) but it’s not a big deal and wouldn’t affect my decision to use a certain sketchbook.

Before you start assessing the physical characteristics of a sketchbook, it’s important to think through how you will use it. Of course this might change once you begin the book, but it’s good to make your best guess as to how you think you will use it.Artway has been producing high-quality sketchbooks for over 20 years, and as creatives ourselves, we know the importance of quality materials. Whether you're producing rough sketches on the go, finishing detailed drawings, creating technical designs or experimenting with different materials like watercolours, pastels or marker pens a sketchbook is the starting point for many artists, so finding something that is reliable and suits your needs is crucial. Great post Liz. I am working on one myself! Just did a video but hadn’t positioned the camera correctly so have to do it again 🙁