Which size of Sketchbook do you use? Do you vary sometimes or stick to one type of sketchbook? For years I’ve been always sketching in the same (Moleskine) watercolor sketchbook, A5 size, because I wanted to end up having my shelves filled with them like other sketchers had. I thought they looked great. But then I discovered that other sizes worked better for my way of drawing, and other paper as well…

If you’ve found yourself frozen when you start sketching something, the problem might not be your abilities — it could be your sketchbook’s size.

I just came back from Norway and now I’m preparing for the urbansketching symposium in Poznan and wondering what sketchbooks to take.

To Norway I took 4 differents sizes of sketchbooks.

Size matters….

According to the subject, I choose a different size and shape…. But also a different paper…

The Impact of Sketchbook Size: Your paper’s size influences everything — your perspective, your choices about what to draw, and your creative confidence and freedom of movement.

Compact sketchbooks offer comfort and familiarity. They slip easily into a pocket, invite quick drawings, and don’t demand complete coverage.

Large sketchbooks provide room and possibility. Freedom — though they can seem daunting initially. All that empty space might feel challenging, particularly when you’re developing your skills.

Note to Self: it’s not merely about the surface. It’s about your mindset when facing it.

Advantages of Larger Formats (A3 or even A2) Big sketchbooks let your concepts expand. They excel for:

• Sketching complex cityscapes
• Experimenting with multi-layered drawings incorporating various tools and mixed media
• Sketching large natural landscapes like in Norway…

A tip I find helpful: Before sketching, “draw” the main shapes first with your finger on the paper, to see where you will put down your lines and to see how big you will make your drawing — like a rehearsal. This helps you plan your composition and to fit everything in what you want to fit in

Compact Sketchbooks A4 and smaller formats are ideal for:

• Drawing while traveling or walking around
• Focusing on details — a tea cup, a cinnamon roll 😉 ,  a door or window
• If You prefer quick, informal drawings
• If You’re concentrating on single elements

Suggestion: With limited space, pick just one detail to draw. Leave other areas suggested, partial, or blank.

But anyway: The essential truth? Work with whatever’s available and begin drawing. Whether large or tiny, each drawing moves you ahead. An opportunity to experiment, discover, and develop — not only your drawing muscles and skills, but your creative spirit.

You don’t have to sketch perfectly.
You just have to sketch.

In the video below I show you the sketchbooks I worked with in Norway.