How to Choose the Perfect Notebook or Sketchbook for Your Projects

Finding the ideal notebook can be a daunting task given the overwhelming number of options. Paper weight, size, cover type... every detail matters for a truly satisfying writing or drawing experience. Whether you're an artist, a student, or simply looking to get organised, choosing a notebook and sketchbook shouldn't be taken lightly. To help you navigate the choices, we've broken down the key criteria and selected the models that stand out from the crowd.

The Essential Criteria for Choosing Your Notebook

To make the right choice, a few technical details are essential. Here are the three key points to examine closely.

Paper Weight: The Heart of the Matter

The weight, expressed in grams per square metre (g/m?), determines the thickness and opacity of the paper.

• 70-80 g/m?: The standard for quick notes with a ballpoint pen or pencil. Lightweight and budget-friendly, this paper may, however, suffer from bleed-through with more liquid inks.
• 90 g/m?: The perfect balance for all-purpose use. This is the benchmark weight of the famous Clairefontaine A5 notebook. It provides a smooth surface and sufficient opacity for a fountain pen notebook, minimising the risk of feathering or ink bleed-through.
• 120 g/m? and up: Essential for artistic techniques. A 140g drawing paper (or higher) is required for India ink, alcohol markers, pastels, or even light washes. It absorbs moisture better and withstands repeated work without warping.

Size and Cover: A Notebook for Every Need

The size and rigidity of the cover directly impact the usability and durability of your notebook.

• The size: An A4 sketchbook offers a generous workspace, ideal for illustrators and designers. More portable, A5 or A6 sizes slip easily into a bag for taking notes in meetings or while travelling.
• The cover: A hardcover notebook protects your pages for the long haul and provides a stable surface for writing or drawing anywhere. Conversely, a soft cover makes the notebook lighter and more flexible.

The Ruling: Blank, Grid, or Lined Pages?

The ruling defines the structure of your page. There's a solution for every need.

• Blank pages: Complete freedom for drawing, sketching, and mind mapping.
• Lined pages: The classic guide for structured, legible note-taking.
• Grid pages: Highly versatile, a grid notebook is perfect for graphs, plans, lists, or even bullet journaling.

Our Recommended Notebooks and Sketchbooks

We've selected three standout models, each excelling in a specific category.

SAKURA Sketch & Note Book 21 × 29.7 cm – 140 g/m?

Why It Stands Out

This large-format notebook is a true portable studio for creatives. With its illustrated hardcover, thick paper, and thoughtful details, it establishes itself as a comprehensive and durable professional tool.

Highlights

• 140 g/m? cream-coloured, acid-free paper, ideal for many dry media (pencil, pastel, charcoal) and ink.
• Generous A4 size (21 × 29.7 cm), perfect for intricate illustrations.
• Practical details: pen loop, elastic closure, and a storage pocket.
• Sturdy binding for the perfect preservation of your work.

Who Is It For? For artists, illustrators, and designers seeking a professional-quality A4 sketchbook for their ambitious projects or final pieces.

Clairefontaine Nomaddict A5 Notebook – Grid

Why It Stands Out

This notebook is the epitome of high-quality French stationery. Its secret? The famous Vélin Velouté paper, whose exceptional smoothness offers an unparalleled writing experience.

Highlights

• Vélin Velouté 90 g/m? paper (PEFC certified) with a perfect glide and excellent opacity, even with a fountain pen.
• A5 size (14.8 × 21 cm), the perfect everyday companion.
• Grid ruling (5 × 5 mm) to flexibly organise notes, diagrams, and lists.
• Durable soft cover with a cloth binding that allows for a perfect lay-flat opening.

Who Is It For? For students, professionals, and journaling enthusiasts who prioritise the pleasure of writing and seek a reliable and elegant daily partner.

Moleskine Classic Notebook – Blank Pages

Why It Stands Out

The Moleskine notebook is more than a notebook: it's an icon. Instantly recognisable, its minimalist and functional design was conceived to accompany creative and organised minds anywhere, anytime.

Highlights

• Iconic design: rounded corners, elastic closure, and a ribbon bookmark.
• Acid-free, ivory-coloured 70 g/m? paper (FSC certified).
• Lays flat, opening at 180° for total comfort when writing or drawing, even across a two-page spread.
• Expandable inner pocket to store tickets, cards, and other loose notes.

Who Is It For? For travellers, writers, and professionals who love its timeless design and are looking for a lightweight, practical notebook to capture ideas on the fly.

Beyond Notes: The Notebook as a Wellness Tool

If your goal extends beyond simple note-taking towards mindfulness or positivity, a standard notebook will quickly show its limitations. For a more guided approach, discover our selection of gratitude journals, specially designed to support you on this journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What paper weight should I choose for a fountain pen to avoid bleed-through?

To write with a fountain pen with complete confidence, aim for a paper of at least 90 g/m?. Clairefontaine's Vélin Velouté paper is a benchmark in this regard: the ink won't feather or bleed through the page, ensuring perfectly crisp writing.

Is an A4 sketchbook practical for taking notes?

It's certainly possible, but its large size makes it less practical for on-the-go situations. For meetings or classes, an A5 size offers a much better compromise between writing space and portability. It all depends on your priority: maximum space to create or a tool that's easy to carry everywhere.

Why choose "acid-free" paper?

Paper described as "acid-free" is treated to neutralise the agents that cause it to yellow and become brittle over time. Choosing a notebook of this type, like the SAKURA Sketch & Note Book, is your guarantee that your writings and drawings will stand the test of time.