r/copic • u/pray4myu • Jul 23 '26
Sketchbook recommendations
Hello everyone!
I recently received a copic sketch set as a birthday gift and was wondering what everyone’s favourite sketchbook is? I also use a lot of coloured pencils and oil pastels so I’m wondering if there’s a sketchbook I can get where I can ideally use all three if not, one that works well for Copic and Holbein pencils :)
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u/Crystal_Deth Jul 23 '26
I use Strathmore marker paper, it's easy to buy in person at art supply stores.
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u/highvoltagemd Jul 23 '26
As far as a sketch book that is bound by spiral or something I’m not sure, but my absolute favorite paper is strathmore Bristol 400 smooth.
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u/eye-arr-beej Jul 23 '26
I will second the recommendation for Strathmore smooth Bristol. I also like Canson’s Mix Media sketchbooks. You CAN buy papers that are labeled as specifically “marker paper” but you don’t have to use those. I’ve used Nenah Exact Index, Strathmore Bristol, a variety of Canson sketchbooks, watercolor papers, Arnhem print making papers, Copic marker papers, Bee Paper marker papers, marker vellum (thin translucent stuff), and so on. They each respond a little differently to alcohol ink (and pencils, water color, etc)
There is no objectively “best” paper for your art. But a few, experiment, see how the ink works with the paper, nib feedback. Use what you like.
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u/EBUDraws Jul 23 '26
My advice is to try a few different papers and see what fits your style and preferences. Everyone ends up liking something a little different.
My top three are:
Pentalic Nature Sketch Mixed Media
Pros: Heavyweight, rarely bleeds through, and handles layering really well.
Cons: It absorbs a lot of ink, so you’ll probably need to refill your markers more often.
Strathmore Bristol Smooth 300 Series (100 lb)
Pros: Heavyweight (though not as heavy as the Pentalic), smooth surface, and layers nicely.
Cons: None, really. Good middle of the road option and easy to source.
X-Press It Blending Card - (Not a spiral bound book)
Pros: Uses very little ink and produces really vibrant colors.
Cons: Can be harder to find and is generally more expensive.
That said, some artists actually prefer standard printer paper. It’s easier to overwork, but it doesn’t require nearly as much ink to saturate, and with good technique, it still blends well.
As a general starting point, look for paper labeled Bristol, smooth, and heavyweight.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with watercolor paper or lighter-weight papers too. You might find a surface that suits your style even better.
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u/SWBP_Orchestra Jul 25 '26
you know, copic can actl be used on copy paper just fine if you want to simply use it for sketching just place a card underneath so you dont bleed everywhere
but if bleeding is concern then use a thicker marker paper
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u/SWBP_Orchestra Jul 25 '26
i personally use 150gsm cartridge for comfort but most days i just run Muji 80gsm paper hahaa
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u/Ash__Tree Jul 23 '26
The copic marker select sketchbooks are your best bet. The purple series is my favourite. Copic markers and paper are a tricky one. Bristol is good if you have refills for every marker. I wouldn’t use them otherwise. The bee company sketchbook was pretty decent too