I regularly keep a sketchbook. I have different sketchbooks for different purposes and projects. For example, I have one I take with me on holidays so I hold onto memories of my trips, especially details I’m likely to forget like conversations and observations; I keep a rough one just for doodling. Keeping a sketchbook is a wonderful thing, below are some of my sketchbooks and a few tips. A few years ago I wrote a guide for the Royal Institute of British Architects, download it here.
You can see more images of my travel sketchbooks on Instagram, of my trip to San Francisco and Seattle, New Orleans and Portland, Oregon.
Tips for keeping a sketchbook
- Think about the size of your sketchbook – large is great for work on, but keep it small if you’re taking it travelling.
- You can make your own sketchbook with just a few sheets of folded paper.
- If you do buy one, think about paper type and format, i.e. plain or ruled, ring bound or stapled.
- Think about having two sketchbooks, one for rough work, the other for more polished work you might want to show or display.
- Experiment with different media, and don’t be afraid to stick in pictures or write in notes.
- It’s ok to leave blank pages or unused areas, it’s your sketchbook so use it the way you want to.
- Give your sketchbook a purpose and make using it a habit, e.g. will you draw a particular theme or for a particular reason or at regular time of day?
- There is no right or wrong way to use a sketchbook, as long as you use it!