Today I’m answering questions on my sketchbook! I get a lot of questions about my sketchbook and these are some of the most common ones. I’ll also talk about some of the misconceptions that people have around the sketchbook!
Why do you use a sketchbook?
I like to keep a sketchbook as part of my painting practice. It is not a substitute for larger paintings, but rather an enhancement to improving my larger work. The sketchbook allows me to keep painting even when I have limited time or energy. The best way to improve your paintings is to paint, paint, paint. Small paintings are a great way to keep painting if you aren’t able to get to the larger pieces. The constant repetition of painting will help improve your work!
Do you sell your sketchbook paintings?
I do not sell my sketchbook paintings. The sketchbook practice is for me to experiment and improve my skills. It is not designed or intended for selling work. I have many other paintings for sale, and that also tends to be larger work. I recently got the question, “But what if there is a sketchbook page that is so good, that you want to sell it?” And another one was along a similar line, “Why paint in a sketchbook if it’s just for yourself?” I think a lot of artists are focused on sales—which is important—but equally, if not more critical, is the creative process and becoming a better painter.
What sketchbook do you use?
I am both very particular about my painting materials, and at the same time, not particular at all. What I mean by that, is that I will paint with anything you put in front of me. I can use any materials, whether it’s student or artist grade, and create a good piece. Yet, if given a choice, I am pretty particular about what I like to use when I paint. I have used multiple sketchbooks ranging from inexpensive ones to pricier ones. All of them I have loved and used to create great work. Again—it’s not the paper —it’s the painter that makes the difference. Currently, I am painting in a Moleskine for my small sketchbook and a wire-bound mixed media pad for my larger sketchbook.
What paper do you use?
If you are painting in acrylics, then either 90lbs or 140lbs would work fine. If it’s a lower weight (90lbs), then I would recommend gessoing the paper first if you use a lot of paint and water. You can gesso the 140lb paper, although I don’t for the small sketchbook pages. As always, try and experiment. See what you like and what works for you!
Smaller paintings are so hard!
The sketchbook is somewhat deceptive. It looks easy, but it’s actually pretty difficult to make the paintings look good. If you’re working on a small space, every mark and layer gets a bit more attention. Therefore, all of the elements have to work together on a smaller scale. The best way to improve your sketchbook paintings is to keep painting them. The more you do, the better feel you will get for the smaller size paper.
What pencil do you use?
I use a regular drawing pencil. To be precise, I will use any pencil that you put in front of me! In fact, I often like to use unusual materials because it gives a different feel and texture to the piece. I have a lot of experience drawing and painting, so I’m also familiar with the different types of pencils. If you want a darker look, then use a softer pencil (e.g. 6B). There are other types of pencils and one is not better than the other!
More questions on my sketchbook? DM me on Instagram and I will feature some in upcoming posts!