U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Paper Book 8.5×8.5 – 110lb Cold-Pressed Artist Sketchbooks – Hardcover Linen-Bound Mixed Media Pads – 76 Sheets (2 Pack)

I just had to share my experience with this blue linen sketchbook! The textured feel of the cover adds such a nice tactile quality – I love running my fingers over it before I start working.

The paper inside has been great for my mixed media experiments. It handles lots of water in the washes reasonably well, which is important for how I blend colors in my floral studies. However, I’ve noticed it’s warping when I use heavier washes, so I need to use binder clips to keep it in place, especially while painting.

The size is perfect for me – not too small and not too big. I particularly appreciate the square format as it helps create visually balanced works. It’s become my go-to for quick studies and color experiments before I move to larger canvases.

The bright blue elastic closure and that little red bookmark ribbon add just the right touch of color to an otherwise simple design. They’re practical too – keeping my pages protected when I toss the sketchbook in my bag for plein air sessions.