Notebooks, diaries

Notebooks and planners are essential tools for recording ideas, planning projects, and creating sketches. They’re designed for artists, students, and creatives who need to keep their ideas close at hand.

A quality notebook or planner for artists should have paper that handles various techniques without unwanted bleeding from paints or ink. Unlike office supplies, these products have heavier paper (from 90 to 180 g/m²), durable bindings for long-lasting use, and specific formats ranging from pocket-sized A6 to studio-sized A4. Our selection includes everything from Royal Talens Art Creation sketchbooks and bullet journals to practical planners with interchangeable covers and dividers.

• For quick pencil or pen sketches, choose notebooks with smooth paper weighing around 100–120 g/m².
• For watercolor techniques and working with wet media, look for pads with thicker paper that won’t warp when it comes into contact with water.
• Dotted paper in bullet journals offers an ideal balance between freedom when drawing and structure when writing notes.
• Planners with additional plastic covers and dividers let you customize them to suit your current art projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What’s the difference between a sketchbook and a regular notebook? The main difference is the quality and weight of the paper. Art sketchbooks are suited to working with markers, ink, or watercolors, and the paper prevents paint from bleeding through to the other side.
• Is dotted paper suitable for writing text? Yes, dotted paper is popular because it provides a discreet guide for writing while still leaving you free to create sketches or tables.

If you’re looking for tools to add finishing touches to your notes, take a look at our categories of art markers and quality drawing pencils.