Art Deep Dive
What paper should I use?
It can be overwhelming to pick a new sketchbook without knowing what to look for or what the labels mean. I'll do a brief overview of what I look for in good art paper.
What do you want out of a sketchbook?
- Paper that suits your choice of medium
- Paper in your budget
- Paper that gives your drawings the texture you want
- Paper binding that doesn't hinder your process or cause curling
- Paper that makes you want to do art
Oftentimes, there are labels on paper pads at the art store designating what mediums work best on that paper.
Paper weights
The paperweight doesn't matter as much in dry mediums (such as pencil, pastel, and charcoal) as it does with wet mediums (like paint, markers, and ink). Paper weight plays a part in the thickness, durability, and the amount of water the paper can absorb. A mistake in paper weight or quality can lead to pilling, wrinkling, or torn pieces of art.
Paperweight is measured in two different units: lbs. and gsm (or g/m²). If you're comparing two sketchbooks, you might need to convert between the two. I recommend referencing a chart, as the density of the paper isn't easily converted due to the unusual size of a ream.
90lb = 185gsm
140lb = 300gsm
200lb = 430gsm
300lb = 640gsm
400lb = 850gsm
Archival paper, often labeled as "acid-free," also affects the price of paper. When a paper is archival, it is resistant to yellowing and fading and has greater durability. Archival paper is essential for professional art, but it can be expensive for learning and practice.
Paper texture
Cold-pressed paper is rougher and has a high texture. It is ideal for dry mediums (pencils, charcoals, pastels). The texture helps the medium go down better.
Hot-pressed paper is smooth and has minimal texture. It is ideal for ink and marker drawings. It gives you more control and helps your markers last longer.
Try your favorite mediums on both to see how they behave differently and achieve your desired look.
Sketchbook Binding
There are a few different kinds of bindings that are great for sketchbooks. You'll have to find your preference through trial and error. Some common types:
- Wire / Coil Binding
- Board Bound
- Saddle Stitched
- Tape Binding
Some watercolor sketchbooks have a rubber seal around the edges to keep the paper from buckling (becoming wavy) when wet. It can help your pieces dry flat. However, you must remove the top page to create another piece, which can be problematic if you're working on multiple pieces or don't have a secure place to store a loose painting.
With time, you'll discover what you like and what you don't. Some brands even offer sample packs to try multiple kinds of paper at once.
Paper Budget
Lastly, if a sketchbook is too expensive, you might feel too much pressure to make great art every time you use it. I will always say find something in your budget that you're excited about and not intimidated to use. It's better to make art on paper that encourages you to do more than stays clean, because you're afraid to mess it up.
