Sketchbooks: Size, Paper, Cover & Binding

I'm often asked about my sketchbooks. Do people ask because I'm a teacher, someone they trust or because they like my artwork?  Why do I prefer one brand or kind over another? I've tried a lot of different books in the last 25 years. It all comes down to paper, size, quality, cover and binding. Time is the greatest teacher in learning what fits my needs. What feels comfortable to each of us differs greatly. I've come to my sketchbook choices over time through experience (trial and error). Today I generally use two different kinds of sketchbooks.

Sketchbook #1: A 10x11 inch sketchbook I make and assorted papers (140 lb watercolor and pastel papers) and spiral bound. To learn more read this Here. I like having an assortment of papers that I can select from in one book. I have a tendency to take my sketches to a more completed stage than many people. Why?  Simply put...I stop when I feel like it. I enjoy being on location and responding to the moment.  Good quality materials (papers) allow me to work wetter and longer and not worry if a paper will start to buckle or fail me. Rarely do I write (journal) in these books 

Sketchbook #2: Manufactured sketchbooks. Stillman & Birn are my favorite store bought brand.  I like these books for many reasons: paper, size, quality, cover, binding and the people who stand behind the company. Stillman & Birn has a sketchbook to fit everyone's need: six types of papers, numerous sizes, stitch bound and spiral bound, hardbound and soft-back covers. What more could a person want? I have countless sketchbooks filled with travels, coffee shops, plein air sketches and personal life experience are held within the covers of these books. I refer to these books as my illustrated journals.  My favorite size: 8.5 x 5.5 inch. Paper surface: I'd narrow it down to the Beta, Delta and Zeta. All are heavy weight and handle lots of paint and water. 

Here's a sketchbook tour inside my Stillman & Birn Sketchbooks.

If you don't see the video you can paste this link in your browser: https://youtu.be/TiIt0-H-yK0

Happy Sketching!

Brenda