Joybuy Insights

Notebooks and sketchbooks: how to choose the right size, paper and binding

A notebook and sketchbook should adapt to how you use it, not the other way round. Yet disappointing purchases are often made based on a pretty cover or a vague promise of versatility, without any real detail about the paper, binding or size.

Common pitfalls before you buy

  • Confusing paper weight with versatility: 70 or 90 gsm paper is generally fine for writing, but it doesn't cope well with large amounts of water. For watercolour, the thickness, grain and treatment of the paper matter far more.
  • Choosing a size that's too bulky: an A4 notebook offers a comfortable surface, but it's less portable than an A6 pocket notebook or an A5 journal.
  • Overlooking the binding and protection: a soft cover is easy to carry around, while a hard cover protects pages better inside a bag. An elastic closure, a bookmark or an inner pocket also help prevent dog-eared pages and loose sheets.
  • Opting for lined pages when you want to create: a lined notebook is fine for meeting notes and journaling, but it restricts sketching, diagrams and mind maps. For drawing, it's better to choose blank pages or a suitable ruling.

The criteria to check before you choose

1. Paper according to your activity

For everyday note-taking, start by looking at the paper weight and texture. Clairefontaine 90 gsm paper, like that in the Clairefontaine Nomaddict, offers a smooth surface that's pleasant for writing, pencil work and small sketches. In some A6 notebooks, 100 gsm offset paper also gives a denser feel under the pen.

With heavily inked felt-tip pens, always test a page towards the back of the notebook. Show-through and the risk of bleeding vary depending on the nib you use and the amount of ink deposited.

For watercolour, look for paper specifically designed for wet techniques. A 300 gsm watercolour paper generally handles washes much better than standard notebook paper. However, paper weight isn't everything: the grain, sizing and absorbency also come into play. A 140 gsm sheet can work for light washes, but it will buckle more if you use a lot of water.

2. Ruling and page layout

  • Lined notebook: note-taking, diary, writing and lists.
  • Grid notebook: tables, calculations, plans, diagrams and structured notes.
  • Blank pages: drawing, sketching, free writing and mind maps.
  • Séyès ruling: particularly useful for studies and work in the French school context.
  • Micro-perforated notepad: tear-out sheets for filing or sharing.

An architect or engineer will often appreciate small squares, whereas an illustrator will lean towards a sketchbook without lines. For documents you want to archive, micro-perforated and pre-punched sheets can prove more practical than a sewn notebook.

3. Size, cover and accessories

The A5 notebook offers a very appealing compromise between writing surface and portability. The A6 pocket notebook slips into a jacket or small bag, but its surface limits larger diagrams. The A4 notebook is better suited to the desk, plans and drawings that need space.

Also remember to check:

  • whether it lies flat, which is handy for writing right up to the spine;
  • the hard or soft cover, depending on the level of protection you need;
  • a notebook with an elastic closure, which is very practical in a bag;
  • a notebook with a bookmark, so you can quickly find the right page;
  • the inner pocket, for tickets, loose sheets or reference documents.
Recommended for: Budget-conscious beginners
Jubiluu A6 Premium PU Hardcover Pocket Notebook

Jubiluu A6 Premium PU Hardcover Pocket Notebook

Why this choice suits this profile: Its A6 format is ideal for students, travellers and anyone who wants to quickly jot down an idea, a list or a piece of information on the go or in everyday life.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its 100 gsm lined pages are clearly stated: there's no mistaking this notebook for something suitable for watercolour.

Key features and highlights

PU cover, 160 pages, elastic closure, ribbon bookmark and pen loop.

Recommended for: Premium enthusiasts
MOLESKINE Classic Large Notebook with blank pages

Moleskine Classic Large Blank Notebook

Why this choice suits this profile: It's aimed at professionals, writers and creatives who want a durable notebook for switching between notes, journaling and sketching.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page clearly states it has blank pages on 70 gsm ivory paper – so the product is upfront about its suitability for uses that require an unlined surface.

Key features and highlights

Hard cover, lays flat at 180°, elastic closure, bookmark and expandable inner pocket.

Recommended for: Specialist and heavy-duty use
CLAIREFONTAINE Aquapad Spiral Notebook A3+

Clairefontaine Aquapad Spiral Watercolour Pad A3+

Why this choice suits this profile: This watercolour pad is designed for artists, designers and students who work with washes, gouache or liquid ink on a large surface.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its 300 gsm watercolour paper is designed for wet techniques, unlike a lined notebook or standard writing paper.

Key features and highlights

A3+ format, 25 sheets, natural white cellulose, medium to fine grain and double-sized paper.

Looking for other options?

We've put together a comprehensive, real-time updated selection of products that meet these exacting criteria and European safety standards.

Frequently asked questions about notebooks and sketchbooks

What size should I choose for studying and work?

The A5 notebook is ideal for classes, meetings and travel. For plans, tables or technical drawings, an A4 notebook or larger format gives you more space. If portability is your top priority, the A6 pocket notebook remains the most discreet option.

Can I use a notebook for watercolour?

A standard notebook isn't always suitable. Check for the words watercolour paper, the paper weight and the sizing. A 300 gsm paper generally handles washes much better than a 70 or 90 gsm paper, although you may still need to stretch or tape down the sheets to minimise buckling.

How can I make my notebook last longer?

Store it in a dry place, protect it from moisture and avoid overfilling the inner pocket. Fasten the elastic closure when travelling, clean the cover with a soft cloth, and test your inks on an inconspicuous page before starting an important project.