Strathmore 566-5 500 Series Hardbound Mixed Media Art Journal, 5.5 x 8.5, White, 32 Count

Ugh. I really wanted to like this. Sadly, the cons outweigh the pros, as far as Im concerned, because they more heavily affect the use of the notebook-the actual watercolor painting. Pros: Great size Beautiful hardback Thick, heavyweight paper Nice binding Cons: Like other reviewers, the paper had a weird, water resistant film in spots, which was utterly frustrating, and required me to scrub with my brush against the paper. I like to work wet on wet, making this absolutely not acceptable. One side of the paper has a very noticeable mechanical dumpling from the way the paper was pressed. This became very noticeable, especially under dark colors. I wont be buying again. The global arts materials watercolor notebook is superior.

I was aware that the item would be in very good condition and not in new condition and therefore I couldnt expect it to look pristine... but yall... it was disgusting lmaooo luckily I was able to wipe down the dirty a** cover with a wet wipe, however repairs to the material of the cover itself wont be as easy. The edges are pretty roughed up and uneven. Though, for as wretched as the outward appearance is, the inside seems rather pristine which was a nice surprise considering my first impression of the product lol As for the product itself, Ill keep you updated cus I have a ways to go in my current sketchbook before I try this one out. The whole reason I got it is because I know from personal experience that Strathmore paper is great quality at a low price. With this specific sketchbook, Id heard plenty of good things so Im excited to try it out! (And I will definitely be decorating the outside)

Disappointed. Does not lie flat as advertised.

Really nice tone. Thick, high quality paper. The book takes a while to lie flat, but it is not extremely resistant.

Really good sketchbook. Nice texture paper, seems sturdy enough to not bleed through if I use markers (Ive only tried colored pencils so far in this book). Good quality binding, seems that this book will be sturdy enough to travel with if I felt like it... Would definitely buy more in other sizes as well. Not perforated, so I dont think Id suggest for a drawing you want to hang, but as a sketchbook, very nice.

I give this 100% Always know what you are buying and make sure it is what you want.

Couldnt ask for more

Good

Fast delivery, and exactly as described. I love my art journal!

This is the best watercolor sketchbook Ive ever owned! Im never going to get another brand or size again because this one is perfect. Great size, wonderful paper texture, and easy to make lie flat by cracking the spine. The pages are not double sided, one is the less absorbent side of true watercolor paper, which to me meant I could do more silly experimental stuff on that side or just draw and not worry about painting every little thing. Fantastic sketchbook! Cant wait to fill up another one!