Это видео недоступно.
Сожалеем об этом.
The Ultimate Watercolor Sketchbook Comparison
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 15 авг 2024
- Hello there! Today we are going to be taking an in-depth look at SIX easily accessible watercolor sketchbooks to see how well - or not - each handles watercolor paintings. The beginning of this video will outline the tests we’re going to be doing so that the individual sections throughout the video are easier to follow.
I’ve included timestamps for easier navigation, and scans of the tests and paintings are available over on Patreon for closer inspection. You can find these exact sketchbooks with their paintings available for sale over in my shop on April 5, 2021 at 1:00pm Central Daylight Time - mark those calendars! Each will come with a personalized note to the buyer. Finally, the mountain lion painting will be the limited edition postcard print for my Patrons for the month of April 2021. Join us at the postcard tier to get yours!
Sketchbook paintings go on sale April 5, 2021: www.etsy.com/sh... (SOLD OUT)
Patreon (Scans, Tutorials, Postcards): / inliquidcolor
How to Paint Animal Textures: skl.sh/2Skycc2
** Supplies **
Colors Used for Test Pages:
Terra Rosa (M. Graham)
Piemontite Genuine (Daniel Smith)
Quinacridone Violet (QoR)
Ultramarine Deep (Sennelier)
Phthalo Turquoise (Da Vinci)
Handbook Travelogue Artist Watercolor Journal 95lb/200gsm: amzn.to/2OOMH96
Colors Used in Demo:
Terra Rosa (M. Graham)
Chrome Black* (Winsor & Newton)
Raw Umber(Da Vinci)
Handbook Travelogue Artist Watercolor Journal 140lb/300gsm: amzn.to/3c2Pzbm
Colors Used in Demo:
Florentine Green (Stoneground Paint)
Raw Sienna Deep (Da Vinci)
Gold Brown* (Winsor & Newton)
Burnt Sienna (Daniel Smith)
Raw Umber (Da Vinci)
Chrome Black* (Winsor & Newton)
Pentalic Aqua Journal 140lb/300gsm: amzn.to/3s380SB
Colors Used in Demo:
Cerulean Blue (M. Graham)
Terra Rosa (M. Graham)
Neutral Tint (Daniel Smith)
Moleskine Art Watercolour Album 200gsm (25% Cotton): amzn.to/3s5xRJB
This is advertised as a 200gsm/135lb journal. While gsm is standardized, lbs are not. 200gsm is 95lbs in nearly all other watercolor brands, and this handles as such. When in doubt, go with gsm!
Colors Used in Demo:
Raw Sienna Deep (Da Vinci)
Gold Brown* (Winsor & Newton)
Chrome Black* (Winsor & Newton)
Ultramarine Blue (Sennelier)
Transparent Red Oxide (Daniel Smith)
Etchr Mixed Media Sketchbook 230gsm (100% Cotton): amzn.to/3c02Y3I
Colors Used in Demo:
Ultramarine Rose (Stoneground Paint)
Burnt Umber (Daniel Smith)
Chrome Black* (Winsor & Newton)
Lemon Yellow Nickel Titanate (Winsor & Newton)
Florentine Green (Stoneground Paint)
Hahnemuhle Watercolour Book 95lb/200gsm: amzn.to/3vKyLh9
Colors Used in Demo:
Pozzuoli Earth Red (Stoneground Paint)
Mayan Dark Blue (Daniel Smith)
Neutral Tint (Daniel Smith)
Cobalt Teal (M. Graham)
*These are limited edition colors that may no longer be available.
Silver Black Velvet Brushes (Round 2, 4, 6, 8): amzn.to/3ug8HsI
Mijello Mission White Class Design Gouache, Matte White
I have created watercolor palettes in collaboration with Da Vinci Paint Co. Your purchase of these palettes and other purchases made with the affiliate links below helps to support two small businesses and this channel:
Da Vinci Paint Co: davincipaints....
Denise’s Earth Friendly Palette (half pans): bit.ly/3A6B5CY
Denise’s Earth Friendly Palette (tubes): bit.ly/3NXnX8R
Denise’s Earth Friendly Refill Set: bit.ly/3G9VmLu
Denise’s Wildlife Palette: bit.ly/3NXAgSA
You can find all my favorite and most used supplies here: www.amazon.com/...
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Jackson's Art links are also affiliate links in which a small percentage of the sale supports this channel without costing you more. Thank you for your support!
Jackson's Affiliates: bit.ly/2HztjHF
** Timestamps **
0:00 Introduction
0:57 The Sketchbook Parameters
2:54 The Paper Test Process
5:17 The Demonstration Process
6:38 Ways to Support This Video
7:58 Handbook Travelogue 95lb
16:07 Handbook Travelogue 140lb
21:39 Pentalic Aqua Journal
28:44 Moleskine Art Watercolor
37:28 Etchr Mixed Media
46:20 Hahnemuhle Watercolor
54:27 Conclusion
** Support & Shop **
Website: www.denisesoden...
Patreon: / inliquidcolor
Skillshare: skl.sh/denises...
Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/sh...
RedBubble: www.redbubble.c...
** Follow **
Instagram: / inliquidcolor
** Music **
Music licensed by Artlist.io
Like Paper Planes by Michael Shynes (ft. Marco Vendame)
Separation by ANBR
Migration (No Backing Vocals) by Ian Post
Icicles by Biba Dupont
It Can’t Rain All the Time by Attila Erdelyi
The Path by Patrick Ussher
Kindness Courage (Instrumental Version) by Kolby Knickerbocker
Hey Denise! Wow, yes, quite a video undertaking. Thanks for the info. Since you asked for feedback, I think our opinions pretty well line up. The Pentalic was my first wc journal (up until the start of my channel I was not a journal painter at all) and even now as a line and wash journal, its not bad. I, like you, loved the Handbook Journal too in the beginning. And for experienced watercolorists its still not bad strictly as a "sketchbook". I try not to think of any of the cellulose journals as appropriate for more polished, layered painting styles. I also really liked the Hahnemühle initially. I've done very limited work in it but it impressed me as much as a non-cotton journal could. Etchr? Yeah, they have a few growing pains. I had one of the first Leather bound Perfect Sketchbooks (Erwin Lian's original, before Etchr's reboot) and it was amazing. How could Fabriano Artistico not be. 😁 But paper aside, Etchr definitely missed a few quality points on the initial reboot of that one it seems. Not really surprising since Erwin's original was a kick starter generated, premium, hand-made book. I've only briefly tested the white cover cotton books and have been satisfied as you have (too many books too little time). Hopefully, they are slowly but surely getting their feet under them. They, at least, are responding to an outcry for cotton sketchbook demands that only a handful of other companies are. All that packaging though...yeah! One person I talked with at Etchr confirmed that as a response to a multitude of complaints for how shipped product arrived. Maybe they'll get a better packaging solution worked out eventually, IDK. Anyway, thanks again for great information and a thoughtful, thorough review. Hope you are well my friend!
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment, Steve! It's great to have your thoughts on this one as well. It's nice to see that we've had similar experiences as well. I think what it came down to for me is that when I was using my sketchbook as something I took with me traveling, the Hahnemuhle and Travelogue did what I expected of them and I was happy with them.
This past year, and more specifically these past few months, I've been keeping a more active, personal journal that I'm using for self expression. Since I'm in it way more than I used to be, that may very well be what got me noticing some of the issues... or maybe they did change the sizing, I don't know haha. While I don't do finished pieces in it, I have been enjoying occasional college-type spreads (not sure what to call them but they're still all watercolor based) that require a lot of small details so I do find myself layering quite a bit. I'm excited to try out the Etchr once I finish up my current book and see how that goes!
Thank you again, and I hope you are doing well, too!
Ahhhhh, you did it!! Congrats on the creation of this beautiful resource! I can't wait to dig into this video. Thank you so much for all of the care and hard work you put into this. ❤
Thank you, Arleesha! I won't be tackling another video this intense for a long while, but I'm so glad to finally have this one done 😅 I do hope it's a valuable resource!
I used to be a packaging engineer. Yes, that amount of packaging is probably necessary especially considering how soft their covers are. I just received goods from Italy that's been warped because of the damage in shipping and change in climate/pressure from warehouse changes.
Packaging is actually pretty complicated lol the engineers would also tense up when someone mentioned conservation.
Great comparison! I am going to send my viewers here when they ask for watercolor sketchbook reccomendations! I like the look of the pentallic.
Thank you so much, Lindsay! I hope you are doing well!
@@InLiquidColor aside from a very "meh" week not too bad.
a cheap one that works pretty dang well is the *140lb vision journal by strathmore* . i've gone through a TON. actually started on the smooth bristol haha. a little tricky for watercolors but the water is no prob, no warping. but the other one is probably better for beginners or people who get frustrated. (the bristol sure taught me water control though!)
I don't even need another sketchbook I just watched this because I find your videos so relaxing
If there was an official award for RUclips watercolor video of the year, you’d have already won. What an undertaking! So perfectly detailed and useful since I’ve already bought four different ones since quarantine (and only one was acceptable so I’m still looking for my favourite) this is such a valuable resource!! Thank you! And amazing work!!
😭 Thank you, Nik. That means a lot to me!
I am an eternal beginner, because I get distracted with other hobbies and don't practice enough. However, I discovered about a year ago that Etchr is my preferred paper, and I use it almost exclusively. Their cotton postcards are less expensive than Arteza! I am eagerly waiting for them to start producing their paper in sheets in addition to sketchbook format. Glad you gave them a tryy!
I wish they would sell large sheets of etchr paper. I love it! It would also be cool if they'd make a cheaper sketchbook with their 50 percent cotton paper 📃
I was seriously just searching for a new one yesterday! This is perfect timing!
Me too, thankyou for an ᗩᗰᗩᘔIᑎᘜ video!!👏🏼
I am painting on my first watercolor sketchbook and it happens to be the Moleskin you reviewed. I’ve been fighting with it and, since I’m a beginner, thought it was my lack of skill was my issue (which may be playing a factor for sure). But seeing you struggle with the same issues I’ve had, makes me feel like maybe it’s not *ALL* me!
Thanks so much for the review, it was very helpful.
I took watercolor in college when I was a broke college student 20 years ago and I got the cheapest paint and brushes and paper…. I struggled so very hard. Fast forward to maybe 5 years ago and I decided to give it another go with nicer brushes and paints and paper…. It makes a huuuuuuge difference
This really shows how important paper choice is.thank you for the time spent.very much appreciated
I like the Moleskin sketchbooks, but I use them exactly as you suggest, sketching with a Micron or similar indelible pen and putting a layer or two of watercolour over top. I actually enjoy the unpredictability of the paper for this, but totally see why it wouldn’t work for other styles.
That sounds spot on, James!
When I watched this a year ago, I was very inexperienced with paper. But this time I can see how hard of a time you were having just trying to lay down that underpainting on the Hahnemuhle. If you haven't tried the new cotton Hahnemuhle you need to! You will be thrilled. It is so nice and so reasonably priced at Wet Paint. Do be careful with masking tape and fluid though - use low tack tape, and don't use masking pen or a colored fluid. Remove both promptly!
Legit just checked my Amazon history to see what I paid for my Moleskine watercolor sketchbook. I was so relieved when I finished that one, I wasn't a fan. Luckily, I got it for a steal at less than $11, lol. It was also my very first watercolor sketchbook, which I'm sure didn't help either. I'll give it that watercolor pencils weren't bad in it. I ended up learning to make my own sketchbooks, though this can be a lot of work. Might give that etchr one a try someday though, I've heard so many good things, and this video tells me I would really enjoy it. Thank you for all the work you put into this video.
I so appreciate your approach for this video; well thought-out and balanced (the 'science girl' in my soul is doing a happy dance.) The amount of time you put into all of your comparison (and swatch) videos is always evident, and downright flabbergasting for this particular endeavor. Thank you so much for sharing this information, AND for sharing your lovely animals. Cheers!
Thank you so much for the kind words, Barb! It's great to hear that it's appreciated and makes all that work worth while :) I can't say that I'm eager to jump into another intensely detailed video again anytime soon, but I also look forward to figuring out how to streamline my approach so that my videos still feel like mine while not taking SO long to produce, hahah.
Amazing work as usual. My favorite is Etchr. From my experience the texture can vary from page to page but it doesn’t affect much. Still an awesome sketchbook.
I have to mention Koval sketchbooks, they're made in Poland, where I come from, but they ship internationally, and im very happy with them ♡ I believe Teoh has video on them
Koval are beautifully made books but rather expensive - even before shipping.
I really liked the animal sketches at the beginning. Subbed for more mammals.
Holy smokes, the amount of work you put into this video is bananas, and very appreciated!
Thank you, Surina! I'm so glad it's appreciated!
@@InLiquidColor no problem. Btw, I use the Moleskine Watercolor Album at the moment and the binding on the spine doesn't hold up well over time, I've found that the pages come loose and wiggle a bit too much. I plan on finishing it, but I probably won't get another one
@@SurinaSlackArt Yikes! Good to know.
Love the Talent Gelato jars in the background early in this video. (I saved all of mine -- a lot and now use them throughout my studio.) That said, I really appreciate the detailed explanation about paper because I use watercolor paper in 9" x 12" (140#, cold-pressed) to practice acrylic paint pouring techniques. Since fluid art in highly dependent on scientific, chemistry and physics of fluids, I find the more familiar I am with the habits of watercolor paper, the more successful I am with adjusting, adapting and accommodating the behavior of the paper to achieve the cells, lacing, marbling, etc. effects I seek and embellishments I may experiment with from time to time. Your detailed discussion has helped a lot.
I love your process here. Such detail and your results are so alive!
This is a great review! I really love to do my research before I buy any watercolor products since I can not afford to try them all. I don't mind investing in good quality products with reviews like this. Thank you so much for the time you took to help us make informed choices!
Thank you, Tandy! I'm so glad it's helpful.
Depending on the size of the sheets, 200 gsm can be different in pounds like 90lb or 135lb. Confusing but they are weighed before being made into pads and cut to size like a 9x12. So when you notice most 200 gsm are 90lb that means they all are using the same initial size paper in their bulk weights as each other. Gsm or grams per squared meter can be 200 for many different sizes of paper. And all these numbers come from weighing bulk paper before being sized down for pads and stuff. I hope this helps, depending on the size of paper in bulk when weighed will give the pounds number which can vary a lot with different sized papers. It’s confusing so I’m sorry if this doesn’t help but it is possible and no way indicates a lie. It’s not a common duo to have 200 gsm 135 lb which is why most companies weigh with papers the same size so the customer has a better idea what kind of paper they are buying since it is more familiar. Odd to have 200 gsm 135 lb but perfectly possible.
Great comprehensive review! I started out using the Moleskin ones but I wasn’t really happy with them. Someone else recommended the Etchr ones so I tried them and fell in love with them. I might give the Travelogue ones a try although the 100% cotton paper in Etchr has spoiled me.
initially I wanted to try the etchr sketchbook but after seeing your comparison I’m not so sure anymore because the technique that is most important to me is lifting while I almost never use any layering. Thank you so much for comparing all these sketchbooks 💕
Bravo! I can see all the hard work that went into this video and it’s a masterpiece, as are all your paintings in it. You really know how to overcome paper challenges. Well done!
Thank you so much Betsy!
I’m so glad you finally tried Etchr! I completely agree about the packaging, but at least most of it is recyclable. And they’re such a dream to paint on. The moleskin ones looked similar to Paul Rubens, which is not my favorite, and now I only use it for color swatching.
Thank you sooo much, Denise! I've been looking for a watercolor journal for forever now but was to scared to purchase something that might not work for me. Your video was very well done and quite enjoyable!
😊 Great content! Super helpful in my new watercolor journal hunt! Thank you! PS. Those who appreciate you will never be disappointed in your growth and honesty!! I have watched your videos for years now and appreciate all you do. Your energy is beautiful! Thank you again!
You can also get the etchr book as a single from
Cheap Joes Art Stuff as well!
There was another comment that said that as well. Great to know!
@@InLiquidColor also Jackson's sells them individually too
I love how even though some of these books were trying to throw hands at you you still made it work and had amazing pieces at the end of them. ❤️
Thank you!
Thanks so much Denise, nice to see you back on RUclips! Love your paintings, the Stellar's Jay is one of my favs :)
FYI, be careful buying the Pentalic on Amazon, you might get a knockoff. I've had great luck with their sketchbooks I've gotten at art stores, but the Amazon version was not the real thing, had weird binding, paper and cover.
That's really odd. Thanks for sharing!
I really appreciate the notes for people with sensory issues. That's a major issue for me and not something I've seen anyone mention before (and the sticker thing is a plus).
Hi Denise! Wow I could see your struggle with the Moleskin but that being said you handled it beautifully. Which told me it would totally frustrate me. Thank you for this video! Love and light
I'm so glad it was helpful. Thank you for the kind words!
Thank you Denise for all your research and testing of these journals. Now I can make the best purchase for my needs. I love the Etchr sketchbook for it's 100% cotton paper.
I'm so excited to try the Handbook Travelogue 140lb! I didn't know it existed, but I have enjoyed the 95lb one.
I agree about packaging on the Etchr. I have a favorite clay artist who manages to ship fragile clay items internationally with recyclable and eco friendly packaging. It's about priorities. Anyway, *hops off soapbox* I appreciate this resource. With so many options it's always difficult to know where to invest my money.
As a beginner I thoroughly enjoy this video (actually all of them) I found it informative and helped me to better understand how and what to look for in paper. In addition I enjoyed your background music selections. It was extremely motivating as well as relaxing. Thank you for all of the time and effort you put into all of your videos!
Thank you so much for this! As someone who only occasionally uses watercolor and doesn't get through books often this is a wonderful resource to know what to get next if I ever make it through my current book.
So glad you enjoyed it Trisha. I hope it proves to be helpful!
I can't believe how much work you put into your videos! Thank you for making this, it's so helpful! ❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕
I'm an Etchr loyalist. With the exception of the plastic, I use all those wrap boxes to keep the sketchbooks in after I have finished them, so that makes me feel a little better about all of the packaging, it is being recycled :) As for those cellulose sketchbooks, I am still shocked sometimes at the things you are able to paint on them, and the things you are able to achieve, how good you are able to make them look. If I tried to do something like that in my Hahnemuhle book it would look awful :) Thank you so much for taking all this time!
Thank you for these recommendations and reviews!! Just got to know that there is a new Hahnemühle Watercolor Sketchbook with 270gsm,100%cotton paper :) I hope it has the potential to be one of your new favorites :)! I will now be my first sketchbook and i will feedback!
What a wonderfully comprehensive video! Thank you! I especially like the paper test to see direct comparison between the books. I have an Etcher I haven't started yet, but I think you just inspired me to get on that!
Thank you for this detailed and incredibly informative video! The amount of work you put into this is commendable ❤️
Thankyou for this wonderful video! So much information! And though you mentioned that the point was not comment on whether we liked the paintings, I can’t help but say how much I admire them. Watching your painting process was so enjoyable. Even when you experienced difficulty , it was super to see how you overcame the downsides of the paper. Wishing you all the best.
I really appreciate your thoughtfulness for environmental awareness and impact. I can't tell you the degree to which excessive packaging (single use packaging generally) quickly turns me off.
Thank you for the note about stopping AAPI hate in your description
I'm sorry I wasn't able to make a call to action in the video itself, but wanted to get it in here one way or another
@@InLiquidColor this Chinese-American thanks you as well.
This was beautiful work and really helped me choose my first sketchbook journal (Etchr). I’m a beginner who has slowly invested in better supplies over time. Your swatch test was fantastic. *chef’s kiss* I’m now going to incorporate that into any new papers I try. Also your previous sketchbooks are absolutely beautiful. I didn’t see a video on a flip through on your channel, but I’d love one (Patreon?). I find I absolutely began to excel at watercolor quickly when I painted subjects I was passionate about (animals). You’re an inspiration, truly! Thank you for your hard work. 😊
Basically this video only confirmed my love for the Etchr brand 🤣
Great video. It answered a lot of my questions about sketchbooks.
So encouraging to know that sometimes it’s not me, it’s the materials!
I just can't get over the fact that the only watercolor sketchbook that I own is the moleskine one haha.
I kind of like it (sometimes) but it definitely gives me a lot of trouble.
I got it really cheap though and I'm not complaining.
You know what's great about that? If you can make that one work, you have the whole world at your finger tips :D
Sorry, but I have to comment on the containers of Talenti gelato, specifically the organic chocolate mousse (?). I have a tub of that exact flavor that I somehow haven't finished eating.
Last but not least, thanks for including a link to a GoFundMe campaign addressing anti-AAPI hate crimes. I already knew you were a good one, but that just elevated you in my book.
Ah man... I better go through these water containers quicker! I haven't had any gelato in quite a while and only let myself get them when I run out ;)
Thanks Denise ! Excellent content 🎨😊 your paintings are always beautiful and your music selections provided a calming background. Just perfection 👌
Thank you so much, Crestbirch! So glad you enjoyed it :) Oddly enough, finding suitable music is always stressful haha but I'm always happy to watch it back at the end for the de-stress :D
This is such a wonderful resource full of beautiful paintings (6 paintings in one video?!) and incredible information. Thank you so much - I can't imagine how much work this was. I have been an etchr fan (sorry about your prior experience - yikes!) and I have not seen the double plastic wrapping when purchasing the 3-packs from their Miami location (only the sketchbooks are wrapped, which I appreciate since I live in a humid environment and go through them slowly.. keeps the sizing fresh). My experience with the others has been similar - I was never impressed with Moleskine (although mine was not 25% cotton), the Pentalic is a fun little book that I keep for on-the-go, and the Handbook & Co.(lightweight) is fine for less water-heavy use. I only used the little 2x2" accordion from Hahnemuhle, so it's a joy for its scale, but I have no practical experience there. I have definitely seen people asking for recommendations recently and will pass this along as just an amazing resource and comparison.
Thank you so much for the kind words, all the support, and sharing your experiences with us! I completely understand one layer of plastic, but the original Perfect Sketchbook had at least 2 layers of both paper and plastic (one or the other was 3, but I don't still have the materials and don't want to say definitively one way or the other), and then was double bubble wrapped and I was like... Nope too much, haha. I'm glad to hear that the ones coming from Miami don't seem to have that issue! I'll order from there next time I am in need.
The amount of work you did for this video...also you give us so much information. Thank you for this video.
I'm so glad you like it! Thank you so much!
Thanks Denise. My painting time is precious and limited. I don't want to fight the paper. I would stick with the cotton . I'll save the extra up. Great music BTW. Thanks again for the very informative video. Take care.💜
As a total newbie (like, just started giving this a serious go last week), this video is a godsend! Thank you!
So glad it's helpful! Welcome to watercolors!
@@InLiquidColor I never post follow-up comments, but I ordered the Etchr sketchbook and it is a *revelation*. I'm not bad, my original paper was!
@@StormMartinEBFG I'm so glad that you're having a better time with it! After many years of trial and error, I definitely think paper is the first priority when upgrading!
Thanks for mentioning textures, the ones you said wouldn't bother me but there are some that definitely would and it's great to be know these things. Not that I've seen someone make a sketchbook with lenticular card cover but I have been given a notebook like that and I couldn't bare to hold it.
I'm happy to hear that it's helpful!
I truly appreciate all of your hard effort that has gone into this video. You are so dedicated and thorough, thank you so much ☺️ This is a great resource that so many will find very valuable! 👏👏
You make the most amazing art guides on youtube i swear
I really hope that it pays off, i'm going to watch the add haha
Thank you so much!
Brilliant review. Straight off loved the mountain lion. Interesting reading Mind of Watercolor below, Steve shaped my thoughts to give the best chance to my poor skills 300gsm and cotton are the gold standard. Following his review I tried Hahnemule toned tan, beautiful book but I didn’t get on with it. Packaging is the modern curse. I ordered a book from the National Army Museum, not enough protection and it got a severe bashing and water damage in the mail. Full refund and apology no quibble, great service during difficult times. Thanks for sharing your great talent.
Not sure if I commented this or not, but I really enjoy the strathmore 400 series sketchbooks, the paper performs really well in my opinion. If I glaze too much it can eat at the paper a bit, and it does warp, but other than that it's great for my paintings and studies. The price is also not too shabby so if that's something you have access to, I recommend it for sure.
I can always rely on you on the technical side of watercolor. Now I have a clearer idea which sketchbook to buy next time!
Thanks so much for all the hard work you put into this video to help us find our perfect sketchbook! I really enjoyed listening to you, the music, and watching you paint your lovely paintings.
I’m really looking forward to painting in the Etchr sketchbook. I appreciate you so much Denise.💕
Thanks for your reviews on the sketchbooks. I review a lot of them, too, on my blog. I have a watercolor sketchbook addiction, I think. But your findings are similar to my experiences, at least with the brands I've tried that you tried, also. I definitely learned I detest Moleskine's watercolor albums. And I love Etchr's sketchbooks (the white cover and the grey-cover "Perfect" ones.) I did have a similar experience to you with my orders with them, however. When they offered me a coupon I got kind of testy with them and told them that wasn't an acceptable solution - I spent money for an undamaged product and got a damaged one, and their solution was to ask me to spend more money? Nope. When I put it that way to them, they made amends and sent me a new sketchbook, albeit a smaller-sized one. I'm hoping their customer service is continuing to improve. I really want them to stay in business because before them, the 100% cotton watercolor sketchbook market was almost non-existent.
Thanks for sharing your experience, Kelly!
I love seeing people use Stoneground. They're my favorite watercolors hands down but I don't see others using them often.
I was looking for a good watercolor sketchbook, thank you❤️
Can you please also make a video for non toxic watercolors when you have time?
You have me sold on the Etchr. Just purchased 4 of them. 👍
It's so fascinating to learn about other people's sketchbook preferences! I've been using the Strathmore Mixed Media 500 for the past year, which has worked pretty great for noodling through ideas for a larger work or quick little sketches, but not so much for more complex pieces that require soft blending. I've been eyeing the Etchr Hot Press Mixed Media for a little while (the cold press doesn't look like it would handle smooth linework very well, which is an option I'd like to have), and if that paper is the same quality as the cold press, I might pull the trigger on that purchase!
I love learning about other people's preferences, too! After I did the filming for this video, a friend did send me one of the Etchr hot pressed journals, so I'm looking forward to trying that out, too! I'm not sure when I'll get to it, but I'll try to post it on Instagram when I do!
Try the Strathmore Visual Journal Mixed Media spiral.........the paper is 100% cotton! It doesn't say so on the cover, but it does say it's their 500 series mixed media, which is cotton, and everything I've done to it says it's 100% cotton, lol I don't care for any watercolor paper from Strathmore (but I haven't tried their pricey Gemini series), but I love all the other papers they have.
Denise, this is an awesome presentation! As someone beginning to learn watercolor, it is so helpful to see what is expected in the action/reaction of the paper, and what went wrong. I love the animals, and especially liked watching the mountain lion come to life. I suddenly saw, "He can see now!" Thank you for all of this hard work!
Denise, you may not see this comment, as the video is older. This video was suggested to me by RUclips, and I was blown away! Your impressive attention to testing and detail was wonderful. I immediately subscribed to your channel. Blessings in the New Year!
Thank you so much Joy! I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
Your paintings are so beautiful! I really appreciate the time and effort you put into your reviews.
Wishing you health and happiness!
Thank you, Denise! This is gold! It's such a jungle and it's so, so helpful to see how they behave and compare to one another! 🌻
I think I've used all of these sketchbooks except the Hahnemuhle one, and completely agree with the overall ranking. Definitely going to try to get one in the shop launch! Thank you so much for the amazingly detailed review and beautiful art as always. Love your editing style and just the overall calm that your videos exude. :)
Thank you so much for the kind words and support!
@@InLiquidColor Well, I tried to get the Etchr for obvious reasons, but the top three were gone before I could fill out the information. Got the Hahnemuhle one though, so now I'll have tried them all. :) I'll probably do an unboxing and first impression video for it, so that'll be exciting as well. So happy to support your content!
@@craftycrandall thanks so much for your support! I genuinely didn't expect them all to sell so quickly. I'm brain storming ideas for how to make some more available, possibly as a patreon tier in the future 🤞💜
@@InLiquidColor Ooh, that is a fantastic idea!! I think everyone would love that, me included!
Thumbs up for re using those ice cream containers for water cups 🤗
They're a staple here! Haha. I like the size and shape more than anything else I've tried to use.
I love all of your videos so much. You're so knowledgeable and clear--an excellent teacher.
Etchr Lab are my pick for watercolour sketchbooks. And if you like their economy line (white fabric cover), you’ll love the next line up with the grey cover. I did have an issue with one of the white covered sketchbooks, as the inside front cover very easily ripped away and the spine is visible. Having said that, it’s also from the Kickstarter, so the bindings may have changed. Have fun painting!!
One misstatement she made about it was saying that all the sketchbooks are cellulose when even the everyday etchr's are actually 100% cotton. I love them, they're my favourite. ❤
Yay!!! This is exactly what I needed because I've been trying to find my own sketchbook that I will fit all my watercolor needs! Sketchbooks mean so much to me, I just love them! This is the greatest video ever! I can't wait to get some new sketchbooks so I can also do my own experiments and tests with the different papers. You are the best!!! So so grateful for you and this wonderfully in-depth video!!! Thank you thank you!!!♡♡♡
Wonderful demo! I’ve owned the Pentalic which was my favourite for a long time, and the Travelogue 95lb, and all of the Etchr’s, starting with the Perfect Sketchbook. By far, all of the Etchr ones I’ve tried have outperformed the others I’ve used, which also included Bee, Strathmore, and Stillman & Birn.
Absolutely thorough deep dive into watercolour sketchbook properties.
Thank you for sharing your experiences with these books.
I find I gravitate towards your channel more often than any others on RUclips.
A testament to your generous sharing your experiences.
Literally No words💯😍
Out of all of those, the Etchr ones catch my attention the most, even if they're sold in three packs on their site (I can get them individually locally, but they're $52 CAD each for the A4 ones). Watercolour is something I'm looking at getting into (I'm currently experimenting with watercolour pencils and going from there), and I especially like that you get the option of Landscape or Portrait for these books (I prefer landscape)
Even though they're dear I really think they're worth every cent as the colour both applies and looks so good, probably due to it being cotton. Here in Australia their like 60 dollars each for the a4 but their so nice I can't use anything else any more.
Fantastic and thorough video, Denise. Thank you.
Gracias Denisse! Siempre tan dedicada a tus videos!! 🤍🤍🤍
Thank you so much for this video. I love all these animal paintings, it is hard to choose a favorite.
Amazing review, Denise! I’ve followed you for about a year now, but never really leave comments. Now that I know that it’s important to leave comments for YT artists I like, I’m trying to do it more. ☺️
I really appreciate all the time, money, and brain power you spent on completing this video. It is such an amazing resource for so many watercolorists! I have had every single one of the sketchbooks on my wish list for awhile - except for the Pentalic, because for some reason, I cannot find that one. I recently, finally, purchased the Moleskine, but quickly discovered it will only be good for swatching, which is perfectly fine because I love swatching and can easily fill up a sketchbook with swatches.
I also have the Etchr 300gsm, but haven’t used them yet.
Your review probably saved me a lot of money! I can scratch the Hahnemuhle and the 200gsm Travelogue books off my list now. :) And of course I want to give the 200gsm Etchr a try. So maybe I’m not saving money. ;) Hahaha!
Have you ever tried the Strathmore watercolor journals? That’s been on my list, too.
Thanks again and stay well!
Thank you so much Kimmie! I'm not a big fan of chasing the algorithms, but your comments really do help so much, so I really appreciate you taking the time. I haven't tried the Strathmore books, but have tried their paper and I don't love them. I didn't find out until I exported this video that there is a book bound Strathmore - eeks!
@@InLiquidColor Yeah, I accidentally stumbled upon that Strathmore journal, as well. They’re pretty inexpensive so maybe I’ll give it a go! 😃 I love trying out new journals and papers. Thank you so much for the reply.
Congratulations, Denise! This is a phenomenal video! Thanks for explaining everything that went on re: Etchr--I think it really gives context to the high praise you have for it.
Thank you! I always hope that the additional perspective can help "prove" that it's not a biased account. Similar to how I feel about Daniel Smith - they're not without their flaws, but their earth tones are still amazing.
omg the etchr took my breath away. i loved how smooth the colors looked. + the way i laughed when you were offered a coupon for your concerns😭
Hullo Denise, I am enjoying re-watching some of your wonderful videos. I hope your doing well, I wonder if you have tried painting in some of the handmade watercolor journals that are popping up for sale by many different artists lately? I believe that you have a wonderful way of sharing a books pluses and minuses. I looked at “Sea Lemon”’s channel and some others for creating gifts for the holidays, but there are quite a few offerings that would save time as just now that might be more of a consideration than money. I have fallen down the soft pastel rabbit hole so I am not watercolor painting much at all. Lovely video and so enjoyable to watch again. I am hopeful that you are doing well, have a wonderful holiday season.
Wow! Such talent & beautiful art, too! Thank you for video!
Just bought the Etchr one based on your video! Thank you!!
I glued the travelog into blocks to help with the buckling, using masking tape to create the slots to fit a pallet knife into.
I so appreciate how in-depth you go on so many of your videos - they are worth the wait! I originally started with a Strathmore as my first sketchbook, but wanted something larger for my second and ended up with the Etchr (I'll admit they were all over my instagram and I fell for it 😂) I use a lot of layers+inking (as of recently) and it's worked well for me! I think I ended up getting it through Cheap Joes, since I was getting a few other things and they came in singles.
Thank you, Amy! That's good to know about Cheap Joes. I admit that I'm a bit out of the loop lately on where to get products, so that's a great tip!
Hi Denise! Thank you for the video and the information. I was looking for a journal like cotton watercolour sketchbook. Aside a Viviva one I got during an inktober kickstarter, the only one I found more easily available in my area was the Etchr. I was really on the fence with it, especially since I am somewhat reluctant to trust instagram adds (this is how I found out about them) but your video provided a really nice, technical and unbiased review for it.
As a side comment, the video was so enjoyable and informative I did not even notice it was almost an hour long ^^;; Congratulations on an amazing video!
You put soooooo much into your videos. I get so much out of each and every one of them. Watercolor sketchbooks are such a confusing art supply because of the cost, types/weights/fibers/sizes and bindings. I have avoided buying them because of that. Thank you for such a detailed and comprehensive comparison. I can see keeping several different types, but needing to be very familiar with their strengths and weaknesses to choose appropriately for the given project. I might actually buy one or two, now that you've given us the information to make informed choices. Thank you very much, Denise. This video was well worth the wait. ❤️
Thanks so much, Kelly! I'm so very glad they are helpful. I know how hard it is to commit to a long-term product, and I'm glad to help where I can. I hope you find one that works well for you!
I bought the moleskin one for inktober 2019. It was the only non-spiral bound journal in the tiny art supply store that was in stock local. I had some trouble with it, but I thought it was just me being out of practice, I guess i wasn’t alone init being difficult. I have half of it left due to not finishing inktober 2020.
I think I will definitely try to get a “better” one once I have time to paint again.
Oh, wow!! I am finally getting to watch your very in-depth review. Thank you so much, Denise! 🥰😘❤ This is such a valuable resource! You're a 🌟! 😊😍🥰😘
What a great job on this review!! I really appreciate the etchr story...I had a similar reaction to their packaging.
Your experience with Moleskine seems to be better than mine. I destroyed my paper to pulp while working with my first sketches in those.
I will never trust Moleskine after seeing what happens with fountain pens in regular notebooks. (Wasn’t pretty)
I use those same ice cream containers! Lol Thank you for the great information 🙂
Thanks so much for this thorough video. I have not purchased a sketchbook for watercolor. I have been using watercolors for almost a year, though not new to painting or art. Once I tried arches paper, I was hooked. So glad to find 100% cotton sketchbook, will definitely buy this soon. You put in so much effort and time, thanks again 😍👍🎨🧑🎨