Sketchbook tour (of my favorite pages)

After sharing a peek into my sketchbook, I often get questions about how to really make the most of a mixed media sketchbook, especially brands like Strathmore. So, I wanted to dive a little deeper and share some of my personal insights and tips to help you get started or find new inspiration for your own creative journey! Making the Most of Mixed Media Sketchbook Pages One of the biggest advantages of a mixed media sketchbook is the freedom it offers. You're not limited to just pencil or pen; you can experiment with almost anything! For example, when I was exploring DIY screen printing without a screen or ink, the sturdy paper in my Strathmore mixed media sketchbook was absolutely perfect. It handled the paint and layering without buckling or bleeding through. Don't be afraid to try different textures – collage elements, fabric scraps, or even creating your own stencils, like I did for those band logos, can add incredible depth. The key is to see each page as an opportunity for exploration, not just a finished piece. It’s a space to test ideas, make mistakes, and discover new techniques. Why I Love My Strathmore Mixed Media Sketchbook I specifically use a Strathmore Mixed Media sketchbook, and it's become a staple for a reason. The paper quality is fantastic – thick enough (usually 90lb/190gsm or more) to withstand wet media like watercolors, gouache, or acrylics without warping too much. This was crucial for my chine collé zino print experiments, where I was working with glue and ink. The slight tooth of the paper also makes it great for pencil sketches and charcoal, giving a nice grip for pigments. If you're looking to expand your artistic horizons and want a reliable base for diverse projects, investing in a good quality mixed media sketchbook like a Strathmore will truly elevate your practice. It gives you the confidence to try anything without worrying about ruining the paper. Effective Tracing Techniques in Your Sketchbook Tracing might sound basic, but it's an incredibly useful tool for planning and refining your art, turning your sketchbook into a valuable 'trace sketchbook.' For instance, when I was working on detailed pencil sketches or trying to refine the gridding for a larger painting, tracing helped me transfer designs accurately and adjust compositions. You can use simple tracing paper, a light pad, or even just hold your page up to a window on a sunny day. For my chine collé print, tracing the skull and flowers design accurately onto the linoleum block was essential before carving. Don't underestimate how much tracing can help you practice proportions, hone your line work, and even combine different elements from various sources into a cohesive new design. Customizing Your Sketchbook for Personal Expression Your sketchbook is a reflection of you, so why not make it a custom sketchbook? Beyond the art inside, personalize the cover or add unique touches. For me, even seemingly simple ideas like the 'devil photo booth party favor' concept started with the desire to make something distinctly mine. You could create a themed sketchbook, focusing on a specific subject matter or color palette. Add pockets for reference images, embellish the spine, or create a unique table of contents. The more personal you make it, the more you'll feel connected to it, and the more likely you are to fill its pages with your amazing ideas and experiments. Remember, it's your creative sanctuary, so make it feel like home!