10 Best Watercolor Sketchbook 2025 in the United States

The ARTEZA Watercolor Sketchbook Set offers three spiral-bound sketchbooks, each with 64 sheets of 140-pound cold press watercolor paper. This paper weight is thick enough to handle multiple watercolor layers without warping, which is great for both beginners and experienced artists. The cold press texture provides a slight tooth, ideal for watercolor techniques like wet-on-wet and dry brushing, giving you good control over the paint.

Each sketchbook is a portable 5.5 by 8.5 inches, making it easy to carry around for painting on the go, and the sturdy blue hardcover protects your work while adding durability. The spiral binding allows the books to lay flat, which is helpful when painting. On the downside, the smaller size might feel a bit restrictive if you like larger canvases for detailed or expansive artwork. Also, having 64 pages per book is reasonable but may require frequent replacement if you paint often. The paper color is a bright white, which helps colors appear vibrant but might not suit those who prefer a cream or off-white tone.

This set serves as a practical choice for anyone wanting a reliable, versatile watercolor sketchbook at a good value, especially if you appreciate portability and durability.

The Arches Watercolor Pad, Cold Press, 9x12 inches, 12 Sheets is a highly regarded product for artists who work with watercolor, gouache, ink, and acrylic. Its standout feature is the 100% cotton paper, which offers excellent durability and a unique texture, making it ideal for various painting techniques. The cold press texture provides a slightly textured surface that holds water and pigment well, allowing for detailed and expressive artwork.

Users will appreciate the natural white color, which enhances the vibrancy of the paints without the use of optical brightening agents. Each sheet is 12 ounces in weight and has a pH-neutral balance, contributing to its longevity and ability to handle multiple layers of paint without deterioration. The pad includes 12 sheets, each sized at 9x12 inches, providing ample space for creative projects. The binding is edge-glued, making it easy to remove individual sheets without damaging them.

However, some may find that 12 sheets are not sufficient for extensive projects, and the premium quality may come at a higher price point compared to other watercolor pads. Additionally, the pad's size might be a bit bulky for those seeking a more portable option. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Arches Watercolor Pad is an excellent choice for professional and serious amateur artists looking for top-notch paper quality that supports a wide range of artistic techniques.

The Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad is an excellent option for artists of all skill levels, offering a range of features that cater to watercolor and mixed media techniques. Measuring 9 by 12 inches, this sketchbook contains 20 sheets of 140lb (300gsm) heavyweight, cold-pressed paper.

The paper's slightly textured surface is ideal for mastering various watercolor techniques, and it accommodates other mediums like acrylics, colored pencils, and charcoal as well. The natural white sheets provide a neutral backdrop for vibrant colors, ensuring that artwork stands out beautifully. One of the notable strengths of this product is its affordability, making it a popular recommendation among high school and college instructors looking for budget-friendly yet high-quality paper options.

Additionally, the FSC certification assures users that the paper is sourced responsibly. However, with just 20 sheets per pad, some artists might find the quantity limiting for extensive projects. While the binding of the sketchbook is not explicitly detailed, it's something to consider as a well-bound sketchbook ensures durability and ease of use. For those who prioritize eco-friendliness, the manufacturer's commitment to sustainable practices is a significant plus.