2021: 1

After watching numerous painting and sketchbook tours online, I decided to try making my own sketchbook (Coptic binding) for the first time. I procured a number of materials—watercolour paper (Fabriano Artistico cold and hot pressed), upholstery sewing materials (including heavy duty thread and a curved needle), and some glue, thick cardboard, and wrapping paper for the exterior.

I made it a goal to try drawing in this sketchbook or on my iPad every night and I finished my book quite quickly as a result. Many reference images were found on Pinterest, friends' Instagrams, or illustrator influencers that I followed.

I don't think I liked the paper very much. I used this paper before and really enjoyed it then, but this batch had an almost waxy residue and the paint didn't absorb into the paper very well. I still have some of it left and I'll be using it for crafting and/or binding another 1-2 sketchbooks, but I may have to source more expensive paper in the future. I also wasn't too satisfied with my sewing and paper-trimming skills, but that'll be improved in my next iteration.

Feb - March 2021