Sketchbooks are vital to every artist's core discipline. Having a sketchbook always within reach enables a free- flowing creative process. I always kept one sketchbook to work on since my high school days but in the past few years, I have found that I need three sketchbooks to work on.
The reason for three is mainly for organization of thought as I need to separate my idea work from my sketching practice. A third sketchbook is just a small pocket pad to take with me at all times.
Here is a break down of the three sketchbooks.
The Idea Journal- This is a hard cover book that when closed, fits nicely on the bookshelf. It's size is 8 x 10 or larger and that paper must be strong enough not to allow color markers to bleed thru. This is where I take an idea and work out color, composition and design. I fill up every page front and back. This is a bound journal so it serves as reference that I can always come back to.
The Sketch Journal- This is were I practice drawing from life. I take on location so I prefer that it is spiral bound so it lies flat so it is easy to draw on. The pages are heavyweight (140lb) because I sketch in watercolor and I do not like the pages to buckle. I sketch only on one side so that if I come up with something good, I can tear it out and frame it.
The Pocket Pal- This is a small, pocket size pad that I keep in my coat pocket or on the car seat. You never know when inspiration strikes. If you don't immediately draw out you idea, it is usually forgotten and life marches on.
What is my favorite book? I love them all!