One thing that I as an artist have always struggled with is maintaining the “perfect sketchbook”. However, after amassing a good amount, I’ve found some things that help me fill my entire sketchbook that I am proud to flip through and show others.

First off, whatever you do, DO NOT rip out pages that you think are not good enough. I used to do this until a 100-page sketchbook became a 20-page sketchbook. If you’re not happy with something, attempt to change it. If it is unchangeable, write notes below of what was wrong with it. I have had many sketches that I would rather forget about because I didn’t think it showed the best of my ability. Eventually, I just didn’t want to waste another entire book, so I just critique and leave it there, and keep those things in mind for the next one.

Secondly, if you’re constantly erasing in your sketchbook, draw in pen! If there is a drawing you think you may erase in the future, outline it in pen. I usually sketch and draw in pen because it has taught me to tweak mistakes that I may have made.

My last piece of advice: There is no such thing as a “perfect sketchbook”. I remember when I was much younger, I would watch videos on sketchbooks that were submitted to CalArts, and be amazed, and wanted mine to be like that, (although it couldn’t). Whatever sketchbook you fill, guaranteed there is at least one page that you are not so keen on, one page that you do not want to be in there, and that is good. No artist is perfect, and if you are “Perfect” in everything, does it not then become monotonous, not being able to improve on anything?

Anyways, I hoped this helped if any of you are insecure about your sketchbooks. I still am to an extent, but I found that these tips helped me become more confident in my own.

Cheers!

-Emma Dailey