Handmade mixed media sketchbooks
Making my own sketchbooks changed my art practice. I'm sharing a simple method to create your own handmade journals.
Working in sketchbooks is a big part of my creative process, but I used to struggle a lot because of the fear to “destroy” a new sketchbook with pristine blank pages. I was just not comfortable creating something not “perfect” and procrastinated a lot. It was holding me back from progress in my practice until I discovered the world of handmade sketchbooks. You can find similar ideas under the names mixed media sketchbooks, handmade art journals, post consumer art journals, art junk journals, etc. I’ll link my sources of inspiration at the end of the post.
Working in a handmade sketchbook made out of a mix of various non-precious papers really helped me to relax and focus on the process, not on the result, because they aren’t as precious. At the same time, when you finish on it comes out so unique and inspiring! I like making notes in them to reflect on my process and write down any ideas that come to mind when I am creating. Both the studies and notes inform my future artwork.
So, I wanted to share with you some resources and ideas and show how I make very simple handmade mixed media sketchbooks.
Materials
Assorted papers (watercolour, drawing, craft, paper bags, vintage ephemera, etc.)
Scissors
Pencil & ruler
Needle & thread
Awl or something similar to poke holes in the papers
Clear or white gesso (optional to prime some of the pages)
Method
Gather various papers and cut them roughly to the same size (I prefer using A4), but also mix in smaller papers for more interest. I usually use craft paper, paper bags, tracing / deli paper, drawing paper, watercolour / mixed media paper, vintage ephemera, book pages, old artwork, collage fodder, etc. Try to have a varied mix of papers - the more, the merrier! You can also add fabric, if you like stitching (you can paint over fabric too). Ensure having some thick papers, so that you can dive in with a variety of supplies, including acrylics, watercolours and other wet media. You can also put in pages that already have something on them, e.g. your sketches, colour palettes, colour washes, etc.
For the cover use thicker papers , e.g. watercolour paper, thick craft paper, cardboard, file folders, some magazine covers all make good sketchbook covers.
Stack the papers starting with the chosen cover. Make sure all edges are evenly aligned. Secure your aligned pages with paper clips. I prefer to mix the papers, e.g. I start with my cardboard cover, then first page is watercolour paper, second craft paper, third tracing paper, etc. Also don’t forget to put your smaller papers here and there. Use 10-20 sheets of paper, but make sure that you’ll be able to poke and sew them.
For such a simple sketchbook I prefer a five hole pamphlet stitch (I share a helpful video below). Use a ruler to measure where your holes need to be and mark with a pencil. Poke holes in your papers using any sharp tool. I use thick paper thread for sewing the papers together. You can also use embroidery thread or any threads that you have on hand, just make sure they are strong enough.
Additional ideas
You can also try creating handmade sketchbooks by using old book covers or experiment with various book binding techniques.
After you finished stitching your sketchbook, you can glue in collage papers, your old sketches / studies, magazine pages, photos, etc. to lessen the pressure of working in an empty sketchbook.
Try priming some of the pages with gesso before or after you stitch the sketchbook. Clear gesso helps to make thin papers a little sturdier and it also ads tooth. White (or black) gesso is useful to cover some parts, e.g. words / images on your paper bags.
Inspiration
Jeanne Oilver - Gathered & Bound, Paint your Town
Laura Horn - Mixed Media Sketchbooks
Renée Mueller - Keeper of Curiosities
Roben Marie Smith - tutorials on YouTube
Jenny Grant - Mixed Media Art Journals
Hope this was useful!
Until next time!
Lisa