The Art Paper Series: Is there a difference between a Sketch & Drawing Book?

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A question we often hear is: why do we distinguish between sketchbooks and drawing books? Aren’t they essentially the same?


Image Courtesy of Tt Pen

The answer is no—there is an important distinction. Sketch paper is designed for practice, experimentation, and quick studies. Drawing paper, on the other hand, is meant for refined, finished artwork and supports a wider range of techniques.

They simply serve different moments in the creative process.

Drawing Book (Versatile & Durable):

  • Made for Finished Art: The substantial weight and durability allow for extended work, repeated erasing, and fine detail.

  • Superior for Dry Media: Its "toothier" surface grips graphite, charcoal, and pastels brilliantly, enabling richer darks, greater depth of color, and more dramatic contrast.

  • Handles Light Washes: While not a dedicated watercolor paper, its weight and treatment can support light ink work, markers, and light acrylic or watercolor washes for mixed-media pieces.

  • Format & Value: Contains fewer, higher-quality sheets per pad, reflecting its role as a premium surface for final artwork.

Sketchbook (Practice & Process):

  • Made for Freedom: Perfect for brainstorming, technique drills, and working out ideas without pressure.

  • Smooth & Economical: Features a lighter, smoother surface that’s ideal for quick dry media sketches.

  • Dry Media Recommended: Best used with pencils, charcoal, and conte. It is not suitable for wet media like paint or heavy ink.

  • Format & Value: Offers more sheets per pad, providing excellent value for daily practice and exploration.


Our Recommendation:

Choose the 100-120gsm Sketchbook for freeing up your creativity and daily practice with dry media.


Click HERE to get the 100 GSM Sketchbook

Click HERE to get the 120 GSM Sketchbook

  • Choose the 200gsm Drawing Book when you’re ready to create a detailed, lasting piece. It is the superior choice for intense dry media work and can even handle light paint applications for mixed-media projects.

Click HERE to get the 200 GSM Drawing book


Location: Nairobi, Kenya

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