Have you ever thought about creating a sketchbook of your art? Doing so is a great way to record your own thoughts, travels and overall experiences. It doesn’t have to be traditional art…it can be digital too. Not to plug one of my own Procreate sets – but I have a few that are perfect for this very thing – the main one being Art Journaling with Procreate. In this set, you have several sketchbook options to choose from along with other fun elements to make your digital sketchbook feel as authentic as possible.
But why do a sketchbook at all, you ask?
There’s something magical about flipping through a sketchbook that’s completely filled with your own art. Every page tells a story — of what you were feeling, dreaming, or exploring at that moment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, creating a full sketchbook is a deeply satisfying project that nurtures your creativity and helps you grow as an artist.
Here’s how to start (and finish!) a sketchbook filled with your own art:
1. Choose the Right Sketchbook (Traditional or Digital)
Start by picking a sketchbook that excites you. Think about size, paper quality, and binding style.
- Smaller sketchbooks are portable and easy to finish.
- Larger sketchbooks give you more room to explore ideas.
- Mixed media paper allows you to use everything from ink to watercolor without worrying about warping.
- If your art is digital: As I mentioned above, you can purchase my Art Journaling with Procreate (or other sets that have digital sketchbooks included).
Pick one that makes you want to open it every day.
2. Set a Goal (But Keep It Fun)
Decide what your sketchbook will be for:
- Daily practice?
- Experimenting with styles?
- Recording your life in visual form?
Having a loose theme or goal keeps you motivated — but don’t overthink it. The main point is to enjoy the process.
3. Make It a Habit
Set aside a little time each day or week to work in your sketchbook. It doesn’t have to be long — even 10 minutes counts! Treat it like a visual journal where everything you create, no matter how small or “imperfect,” matters.
4. Fill Your Pages with Variety
Your sketchbook doesn’t need to be polished. Mix different types of entries:
- Quick sketches
- Detailed drawings
- Watercolor experiments
- Collages
- Written notes, quotes, or observations
- Color swatches
- Abstract doodles
This variety keeps your creativity alive and removes the pressure to be “perfect.”
5. Experiment Fearlessly
Think of your sketchbook as a playground. Try new materials — markers, colored pencils, ink, pastels, stickers. Test different techniques. Make mistakes and celebrate them. A sketchbook should feel like a place where it’s safe to take artistic risks.
6. Use Prompts and Challenges
If you ever feel stuck, use art prompts! They give you a jumping-off point without having to think too hard. You can find daily or weekly art challenge lists online, or make your own:
- Draw your breakfast
- Sketch something blue
- Illustrate a memory
- Create a character based on a song
7. Document Your Life
Sketching from real life is a wonderful way to both practice your skills and create a personal record. Draw the view from your window, your pet napping, the inside of your favorite coffee shop, or scenes from your travels.
8. Don’t Judge Your Sketchbook
Resist the urge to rip out pages you don’t like. Every sketch you make — even the ones you don’t love — is part of your artistic journey. Over time, you’ll look back and see how much you’ve grown.
9. Personalize the Cover
As you near the end, decorate the outside of your sketchbook! Paint it, collage it, or add stickers. Make it uniquely yours, just like the art inside.
10. Celebrate Your Completed Sketchbook
Finishing a sketchbook is a huge accomplishment! Flip through it, share it with friends, or keep it somewhere special. You could even post a video flip-through online to inspire others.
And then — start the next one.
Final Thoughts
A sketchbook isn’t just a collection of drawings — it’s a mirror of your creativity, growth, and voice as an artist. Filling one with your own art is a deeply rewarding journey. No matter where you are in your artistic path, your sketchbook can be your space to dream, play, and discover.
Until next time…
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