Creative Prompts #10

It’s time for handmade sketchbooks!

Let’s make some sketchbooks!

Although there are many sketchbooks to choose from in art supply shops, I have always been a big fan of handmade ones. Making a sketchbook is my favorite procrastination activity when I don’t feel inspired to paint 😅

I love the versatility of making my own sketchbooks as I can choose and mix the types and sizes of paper, but I especially love adding my own sketches to the mix. Having some of my work already on some pages makes it so much more personal and “me”. An additional advantage is that I am usually less precious about a handmade book and it’s easier to overcome the fear of the blank page.

Anyway! If you’re interested in making your own sketchbook, but didn’t know where to start, here are four techniques from the most beginner friendly (in my opinion) to more advanced:

1. Pamphlet stitch. This is the technique I started with and I think you don’t even need any special tools for that. Most of the time I just use regular threads and needles to make these sketchbooks. I discuss the technique more in detail in this post:

Handmade mixed media sketchbooks

2. Attach the pages directly to the cover with a bookbinding glue. This isn’t a technique for very neat people haha as it tends to get messy, but it’s really fast and great for mixed media projects. I think these books are meant for play and experiments! The technique is explained in this free video from Jeanne Oliver. An example of a book that I made using this technique:

Three approaches to finding a composition

3. Sew the signatures onto the book spine (or fabric). I borrowed the idea from junk journal making. I recommend either using a pamphlet stitch like in this example or a more elaborate criss-cross stitch.

   Here’s a book that I made using this technique:

Sketchbook Tour 6

4. A “proper” bookbinding technique, like the coptic stitch or the French link stitch. I used the French link stitch to create the sketchbook for my 100 days project):

Studio Notes: Update on the 100 Days Project

I hope you’re inspired to make your own sketchbook now!!

Making handmade sketchbooks is a creative act in itself and always has a calming effect on me. The possibilities for experimentation with materials and binding techniques are unlimited. You can make your own books not only for sketches and studies, but also for writing down your thoughts and ideas.

And remember - sketchbooks don’t have to be about finished or beautiful artwork, just go to the next page and continue exploring!

Thank you for reading and being here! Feel free to share these prompts with a creative friend. I’ll be happy to hear from you in the comments! Do you make your own sketchbooks?

Until next time!

Lisa