The Latest.

In August, I found out the paper in the Hand•Book Journals had changed. I adjusted, albeit slowly. For the most part, I quit using watercolor because the new paper doesn't handle even the lightest wash well. As a result, I've been on the lookout for new sketchbooks ever since.

I've been using a Canson Mix Media Journal for about a month now.

The paper's not bad – smooth on one side with a bit of texture on the other. It's bright white and thick enough that my pen work doesn't bleed through. With watercolor, I run into the same problem I have with the Hand•Books. It responds fairly well on the side with texture, but bleeds quickly into the smooth side. I have trouble coloring large areas because by the time I reload my brush, there's already a line where the first application has started to dry. 


Also, it's a softcover. I like the flexibility a hardcover book gives me, but I was hoping I'd like the paper enough to overlook that issue. I'm don't.


Elaine Magliacane, an artist I follow on Flickr, recently mentioned trying a Fabriano sketchbook she saw in Danny Gregory's video, The Art of Breakfast. I'd noticed the book in the video, but I figured it was one Danny made himself. Turns out you can get them at Cheap Joe's for the very reasonable price of about $15! How could I resist?

I got it yesterday and have only one complaint so far – it's a little too big to fit my scanner. To get these images, I scanned each side and put them together in photoshop. I don't know if I'll keep hassling with that, but who cares? The paper is wonderful!

Cheap Joe's describes it as, "... an upscale European sketchbook/journal perfect for writing, drawing, and even light water media." It has a subtle texture on both sides and is bright white. I had no trouble working wet in wet and I'm very impressed with how saturated the colors look.

I'm excited about drawing in it, which is a wonderful feeling to have again. I'll keep you posted as I get more drawings done in it, but for now I'm very happy with it.