Strathmore 566-8 500 Series Hardbound Mixed Media Art Journal, 8.5x11 32 Sheets

I know these are officially for dry media, but I have used sketch books similar to these for many years as journals, and I write with fountain pens, which are not especially wet. In fact, I see I have used several of this model over the last five years, but I think the paper quality has declined a bit in this instance. I am startled to see that the latest version of this book allows significant bleed-through (not complete, but visible) when using a fountain pen. The paper weight is 60 lbs; I recommend something with 75 lb weight; Art Alternatives makes such a book (I have also recently written in them with zero bleed-through with a fountain pen), and it is somewhat less expensive than this one, too.

Easily carried and great for drawing.

Wonderful hardcover drawing, painting, sketching, anything you want book. Its just right to put in your purse. As a beginner to arts and crafts, drawing. Etc. This little book has very high quality paper and is thicker and more sturdy than the average sketch book. I will buy the larger one next time just to have more room. I highly reccomend this for everyone. I will journal, draw, paint,doodle in this very lovely book like pad.

Ive been using this exclusively with watercolor so far. It handles it surprisingly well. I havent had to change my techniques to accommodate the paper. I paint primarily using glazing. Ive even done a full page wash and then was able to paint several additional layers on top. The paper buckles, but so does thin watercolor paper, and can be flattened out easily. I also painted the cover with acrylics to make it mine, and that was fun too.

Love this book. The pages will lay flat. The paper is heavy enough that theres no bleed through with a watercolor wash. Its a joy to draw on.

Keep in mind: Book is 64 pages only vs. sketchbook journals that usually have 175 to 200 pages.

The binding is solid and the paper good quality. I am using permanent colored markers, including Sharpies and other non-alcohol pens. The ink does not bleed through all the way but pages can only be colored with this type of marker on one side.

I keep a journal. For years I have used sketch books for the purpose. The old one was full and this book presented itself at a very low price and on paper had all the right specifications. On arrival I was delighted to find that the book was bound in an elegant leather-like material which feels satisfying to the touch. Let us hope the content does it justice.

Disappointed. Does not lie flat as advertised.

Perfect. Well constructed.