Top Best sketchbooks for Watercolors
The Art of Choosing the Perfect Watercolour Sketchbook
There are countless sketchbooks on the market, many labeled as suitable for watercolours or mixed media. Yet, the truth is that most of them fail to meet the needs of water-based techniques. This often leads to frustration, unsatisfying results, and even discouragement among aspiring artists. And the culprit? The wrong paper. Paper is the heart of every watercolour sketchbook. Let us guide you through what makes a watercolour sketchbook exceptional, what to look for, and why the right paper can transform your art.
Only cotton certified paper will make your watercolor beauty and detailed.
What Makes a Great Watercolour Sketchbook?
A proper watercolour sketchbook must contain high-quality watercolour paper. Ideally, this means cotton paper produced using the traditional mould-made method—a process mastered by only a handful of manufacturers worldwide. These papers are resilient, absorbent, and able to withstand the rigours of watercolour painting. They typically come in 200gsm or 300gsm weights and various surface textures. Papers made from cellulose or a blend of cotton and cellulose are also solid alternatives, though cotton remains the gold standard.
Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, using paper from reputable manufacturers is essential. Their consistency and quality ensure your colours shine, your washes flow, and your creativity soars.
Fabriano Artistico 300gsm Cotton Paper
Saunder Waterford Cotton paper
Arches Watercolor natural torn edges
Why Are Most Sketchbooks Unsuitable for Watercolours?
The answer lies in the manufacturing process. Good watercolour papers are thick, sturdy, and challenging to machine-bind. To accommodate mass production, most sketchbooks use softer, more pliable papers that are easy to stitch by machine. Unfortunately, these papers lack the durability and absorbency needed for watercolour techniques. This is why many beginner artists struggle to achieve satisfying results despite trying different sketchbooks. It’s not the artist—it’s the paper.
Most sketchbooks available on the market do not work well with watercolors and mixed media.
Elevate Your Art with the Right Paper
To unlock the full potential of your watercolours, only 100% cotton certified paper will do. It offers unparalleled luminosity, durability, and texture, allowing your artwork to truly shine. Even if you work with mixed media, quality paper ensures vibrant colours and enduring results.
At KovalSketchbooks, most of our sketchbooks feature 100% cotton watercolour papers from renowned brands such as Fabriano, Saunders, and Arches. These papers are not only exceptional for watercolours but also versatile enough for various techniques, including gouache, ink, and pencil.
Even if you create illustrations and work with mixed media, good paper will provide you with the right luminosity of colors and durability.
Sketch with Cotton Paper
Discover the Best Watercolour Sketchbooks
Sketchbook PRO 25x25 – The Giant
For those who need generous space and the highest-quality heavy-weight papers, our largest hardcover sketchbooks are the ultimate choice. Fondly referred to by customers as #Sketchilla, these sketchbooks measure 25x25 cm or similar (e.g., 29x25 cm).
If you’re a fan of large formats and bold washes, these sketchbooks are perfect for showcasing your skills and experimenting with expansive compositions.
Pro Sketchbook 14x20 and 17x17 – The Classic
Our most popular watercolour sketchbooks strike the perfect balance between size and functionality. Compact yet spacious enough for serious work, they are easy to carry and ideal for travel. Most feature 200gsm paper, though some options include 300gsm for those who prefer a thicker base.
/200gsm vs 300gsm comparison/
Available in both Cold and Hot Pressed variants with seasonal cover options, these sketchbooks are versatile tools for almost any medium, from watercolours and gouache to ink and pencil.
Traveler – The Adventurer
This A5-sized sketchbook deserves special recognition. Designed from scratch by KovalSketchbooks, the Traveler is truly one of a kind. Featuring a soft synthetic leather cover with a flap closure and two buttons, it’s lightweight, durable, and perfect for on-the-go creativity. Inside, you’ll find the finest cotton paper, primarily Saunders Waterford, making it an indispensable companion for artists worldwide.
B5 – The All-Rounder
B5 sketchbooks offer a middle ground between the large Sketchillas and compact A5 options. Featuring predominantly 300gsm cotton papers, these sketchbooks excel in both quality and versatility. The popular Landscape format is a favourite among professionals and advanced creators. With options for both Cold and Hot Pressed papers, these hardbound sketchbooks also occasionally feature unique, limited-edition covers.
Let Your Creativity Flourish
Choosing the right sketchbook is more than just a practical decision; it’s an invitation to explore, experiment, and elevate your art. Whether you’re looking for a compact travel companion or a grand canvas for bold washes, there’s a KovalSketchbook waiting to inspire you.
Explore our full range of watercolour sketchbooks here.