Today I’m going to show you how to make your own sketchbook. I’ve made a little video about this, since several people asked me about this.
These are relatively easy to make sketchbooks that you don’t need any special tools for. They have a beautiful cross-binding on the back (at least sometimes), and I use them all the time for my sketching activities. I like to add envelopes in the back to store notes, tools, or things I find outside.
The advantage of these sketchbooks is that you can use any paper you like, either paper you don’t get as easily in sketchbooks, like 100% cotton watercolor paper, or colored paper, or to use up paper you wouldn’t use otherwise.
Please note that I’m not an expert bookbinder, and I didn’t learn this technique anywhere. There are probably a lot of things I do wrong or unprofessionally. This is just what works for me. These sketchbooks will last at least a few months even if you throw them in your backpack.
Here’s what you will need:
- 12-16 sheet of paper, at least A4 size. This will get you an A5 sketchbook. I prefer watercolor paper in 200-300gsm.
- two pieces of hard cardboard. If you buy your paper in pads, you can use the back.
- fine white thread (bookbinder thread is great, but not necessary)
- thick thread
- a big needle
- scissors
- a pencil
- a ruler
- optional: a folding bone
Watch the video to see how I make my sketchbooks:
I hope this video was helpful for you! Let me know what kind of sketchbooks you prefer and if you’ve ever made your own!
If you want to learn more simple book-binding techniques, I also have a more detailed online class about how to make your own sketchbook that shows several techniques in detail.
The class is available on Gumroad (with pay-what-you-want pricing) or through Skillshare.
Thank you Julia, this was easy to follow with a lovely result!
Thank you Susan, I’m glad to hear that!
wow! thanks Julia, I was one who had asked for this and I can’t wait to make my own!
Have fun!
I love this, so clear, thank you!!
I’m glad to hear that, thank you!
Thank you for your very clear instructions. First ever sketch book successfully completed.
That’s so great, Jean! Enjoy drawing in it!! 🙂
I’m looking into making a journal, I am wondering which watercolour paper would be best as I know there is a right and a wrong side on some paper brands, I am wondering which is okay for painting on both sides.
Thank you
Geraldine
Sometimes the paper has a different texture one one side, but usually it will take paint from both sides well. So most times it doesn’t play a big role.
As for inexpensive paper, I often use Canson XL Watercolor paper. It isn’t the greatest paper for detailed work, but for sketching and mixed media it’s fine, and you don’t have to worry about wasting it. I’ve also heard good things about Strathmore’s pads. In the middle pricing range is Hahnemühle Britannia, if you can get it it’s also not too bad for sketching.
If you want to invest in cotton paper from the start (it is of higher quality but for sketching it’s often overkill because of the price), then you can’t go wrong with Arches or Hahnemühle Expression.
Hope that helps!
Truly, this helps so much. Thanking you for your time and help.
Best wishes
Geraldine
Just made my first sketchbook! I Love it! I used button thread, and I am sure it will hold well!
Yay, that sounds great – enjoy your sketchbook!