12 best drawing pads
Drawing pads, also known as sketchbooks or art pads, are essential tools for artists, photographers, and creative individuals. They provide a dedicated surface for creating drawings, sketches, illustrations, and other forms of visual art. Here's some information about drawing pads:
Types of Drawing Pads:
- Sketchbooks: Sketchbooks are typically small, portable drawing pads with blank pages. They are commonly used for quick sketches, doodles, and preliminary drawings.
- Drawing Pads: Drawing pads come in various sizes and paper types, such as plain paper, drawing paper, or bristol board. They are suitable for more detailed and finished artwork.
- Watercolor Pads: These pads are specially designed to handle watercolor painting. They contain thicker, textured paper that can absorb and hold watercolor pigments without warping.
- Mixed Media Pads: Mixed media pads feature paper that is versatile and suitable for a variety of media, including pencils, pens, markers, watercolors, and acrylics.
Paper Weight and Texture:
- The weight of drawing pad paper is measured in grams per square meter (gsm). Lighter paper (around 50-90 gsm) is suitable for sketching, while heavier paper (140 gsm or more) is better for painting and detailed work.
- The texture of the paper varies from smooth to rough. Different textures are preferred for different techniques and artistic styles. Smooth paper is ideal for detailed drawing, while rough paper can add interesting texture to artwork.
Binding Styles:
- Spiral-bound: Sketchbooks and drawing pads are often spiral-bound, allowing the pages to lie flat and be turned easily. This is convenient for artists who work across a double-page spread.
- Hardbound: Some drawing pads have a hardcover binding, providing durability and protection for the artwork inside. They may have a sewn or glued binding.
Size and Format:
- Drawing pads come in various sizes, from pocket-sized to larger formats suitable for more extensive projects. The choice of size depends on an artist's preferences and intended use.
Acid-Free Paper:
- Many high-quality drawing pads use acid-free paper, which prevents yellowing and deterioration over time.This is essential for preserving artwork.
Brand Options:
- There are numerous brands that produce drawing pads, each with its own quality and paper characteristics. Some well-known brands in this category include Strathmore, Canson, Moleskine, Fabriano, and Winsor & Newton.
Use in Photography:
- While drawing pads are primarily associated with traditional art, they can also be used by photographers for sketching out compositions, storyboarding, or jotting down notes and ideas related to their photography projects.
Accessories:
- Artists often use a variety of drawing tools and accessories in conjunction with drawing pads, including pencils, charcoal, pastels, markers, and erasers.
In summary, drawing pads are fundamental tools for artists and photographers alike, offering a dedicated surface for creative expression. They come in various types, sizes, and paper textures to accommodate different artistic styles and techniques. The choice of a drawing pad depends on an individual's preferences and the specific requirements of their creative projects.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best drawing pads on the market
Melissa & Doug Sketch Pad (9 x 12 inches) - 50 Sheets, 2-Pack
Melissa & Doug
Product description
Serious artists will appreciate these generously sized 9” x 12” wire-bound pads of professional-quality paper. Its thickness and texture make it ideal for charcoals as well as pencils, crayons, and markers. Two drawing exercises are included to get young artists started. Our children’s art pads are made of high-quality fade-resistant, acid-free white paper. The durable paper is exceptional for pencils, charcoals, markers, and crayons. These spiral-bound art pads include step-by-step instructions for drawing a face and a horse that are easy for younger kids to understand. The Melissa & Doug Sketch Pad 2-Pack for kids is a high-quality art supply that helps kids explore their creativity. Maintaining an ample supply of paper gives kids a convenient option for screen-free fun. For more than 30 years, Melissa & Doug has created beautifully designed imagination- and creativity-sparking products that NBC News called “the gold standard in early childhood play.” Today, Melissa & Doug is proudly partnering with the American Academy of Pediatrics to foster early brain development and help children build important life skills through play.
From the Manufacturer
From classic wooden toys to crafts, pretend play, and games, Melissa & Doug products provide a launch pad to ignite imagination and a sense of wonder in all children so they can discover themselves, their passions, and their purpose.
Since the company’s founding more than 25 years ago, Melissa & Doug has consistently delivered innovative products that inspire open-ended thinking, encourage kids to see new possibilities, and offer Countless Ways to Play. It’s part of a bigger vision to Take Back Childhood. Because by giving children a true childhood with the space and freedom to explore their world, we give them a path to realizing their full potential!
- SPIRAL-BOUND SKETCHPAD: The Melissa & Doug Sketch Pad 2-Pack features two 50-page spiral-bound full-size sketchpads measuring 9” x 12” that’s designed for the young artist on the go.
- HIGH-QUALITY PAPER: Our kids’ art pads are made of portfolio-quality fade-resistant, acid-free white paper. Their durable paper is exceptional for pencils, charcoals, markers, and crayons.
- ADDED DRAWING INSTRUCTIONS: This coloring pad 2-pack for kids includes step-by-step instructions for drawing a face and a horse that are easy for younger kids to understand.
- KEEPS KIDS ENTERTAINED: The Melissa & Doug Sketch Pad 2-Pack for kids is a high-quality art supply that helps kids explore their creativity. Maintaining an ample supply of sketch paper gives kids a convenient option for screen-free fun.
- “THE GOLD STANDARD IN CHILDHOOD PLAY”: For more than 30 years, Melissa & Doug has created beautifully designed imagination- and creativity-sparking products that NBC News called “the gold standard in early childhood play.”
- 100% HAPPINESS GUARANTEE: We design every toy to the highest quality standards, and to nurture minds and hearts. If your child is not inspired, give us a call and we’ll make it right. Our phone number is on every product!
User questions & answers
| Question: | Whats the difference between the doodle paper and the sketch pad |
| Answer: | I have no idea, it all seem the same to me. You can also doddle on sketch paper as well, but I suppose sketch paper is bigger. |
| Question: | Can you rip the page out with a straight edge |
| Answer: | No. There is no perforated line below the spiral, so when a page is removed, it has the spiraled edge. |
| Question: | what is the paper weight |
| Answer: | I don’t remember any weight marking but the paper seemed to have a nice weight similar to a more expensive sketch pad. |
| Question: | what is the paper weight |
| Answer: | I got it for the grand kids to use markers on. It’s thicker the typing paper but not as thick as construction paper |
Product features
Choosing the Best Toys
Increasingly, doctors and child development experts around the world are recognising the value of hands-on, imaginative play.
Research shows play promotes self-confidence, social and cognitive skills, resilience, and more.
And it is these skills that are crucial building blocks for success and personal fulfilment in adulthood.
Sketch Pad 2-Pack
Two high-quality sketch-paper pads are great for use at home, school, and on the go.
Portfolio Quality
Portfolio-quality paper is fade-resistant, acid-free, and slightly textured.
How-to Tips
Includes free how-to guides, for drawing a human face and a horse.
Countless Ways To Play
Experts say the best toys are those that encourage interaction. Our toys are designed to inspire engagement and connection with your child. Many even include enrichment ideas right on the packaging. Because kids who can imagine the possibilities become grown-ups who can make their dreams a reality!
Our Story
Melissa and Doug are real people (and parents of six) who are passionate about the power of play!
Our Mission
To ignite imagination and wonder so children discover themselves, their passions, and their purpose.
Our Toys
Made with quality and care, our toys inspire a world of discovery and hands-on learning.
Our Promise
The Melissa & Doug signature on every product is our commitment to the highest standards.
Bellofy Drawing Paper Pad 9” x 12” | 100 Sheets | 60lbs 85g | Acid Free Sketchbook Paper for Dry Media | Top Spiral Bound Sketchpad for Kids, Beginners, Artists & Professionals
- PREMIUM DRAWING PAPER - The fine tooth surface makes this drawing paper pad ideal for dry media like pencils, pens, graphite, charcoals, and more. Pad comes with 100 Sheets, and they’re ready to endure frequent erasing. The pad’s lightness makes it very easy to carry around.
- PROFESSIONAL SKETCHBOOK SUPPLIES - This drawing sketchbook will satisfy your needs no matter what your artistic level is. Kids, beginners & artists have tested and loved this art pad. Enjoy your artistic journey with a Bellofy drawing paper pad!
- TEAR & SHARE - The top spiral bound makes it perfect for lefties and righties, it opens flat on any surface. Micro-perforated pages for a safe removal, so you can detach your drawings without any unexpected rips or tears. Draw, detach, frame & share your creations.
- TRAVELLING COMPANION - Wherever you go, this pad will fit into your bag or backpack. The weight of 85gsm/sheet makes it light to carry around. On the airplane or a bench in the park, with your new drawing pad, you can convert your imagination into art. Let your creativity flow!
- GUARANTEE - Your happiness is our happiness too. We guarantee you will love this drawing sketchpad as much as we do. Just in case you won't, our Customer Happiness Team will take great care of you. All you need to do is to send us a message and we’ll get back to you.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is this item 5 pounds? How heavy it is |
| Answer: | Thank you for your question. We really appreciate you asking about our product. Our Bellofy Drawing Paper Pad 9” x 12” | 100 Sheets is 85g for its weight. For each sheet, it is 85gsm that makes it light to carry around. I hope this answers your question, should you have further concerns please don't hesitate to reach us out. |
Arteza Sketch Book, 5.5x8.5-inch, 3-Pack, Blue Drawing Pads, 300 Sheets Total, 68 lb 100 GSM, Hardcover Sketchbook, Spiral-Bound, Use with Pencils, Charcoal, Pens, Crayons & Other Dry Media
Product description
Portable & Durable Sketch Book
The convenient 5.5x8.5” size makes it easy for you to store this multi media sketchbook in your backpack and take it with you on the go. With a sturdy hardcover, you won’t need to worry about your pages getting bent while in your bag. The elegant blue color of this sketchbook’s hardcover is not only practical but also stylish and can be easily customized.
Convenient Spiral Bound Sketchbook
It can be an inconvenience trying to work on a sketch when the other side of the book keeps getting in the way. With this spiral sketchbook, it is not an issue, as the pages open flat and you can rotate them all the way back so you’re working on one page at a time. This also works well for those who draw with their left hand, as you can work at an angle that is comfortable for you.
Thick Sheets Prevent Bleed-Through
Whether you’re working on a light sketch or detailed illustration, this sketchbook can handle all your artistic ideas. The thick, acid-free sketch paper is perfect for pencils, charcoal, pens, crayons, pastels, and colored pencils. If you choose to use ink or markers, you won’t need to worry about bleed-through, while the acid-free paper prevents fading over time.
- Convenient Sketch Pad Pack of 3: Whether you’re a student or professional, this drawing journal bulk pack allows you to have a sketch book for the home, classroom, or to take with you on the go. Each book in the pack has 100 sheets.
- Durable Sketchbook Hardcover: Features a hardcover reinforced with PU to ensure the pages are protected and can withstand extended use.
- Thick & Acid-Free Sketch Paper: Suitable for a variety of dry media, the thick 68lb (100gsm) paper in this bleedproof sketchbook means marker and ink won’t come through. Acid-free sheets keep your artwork vibrant and long-lasting.
- Spiral Sketchbook for Easy Use: The strong spiral bound sketchbook keeps your sheets in place, and each page opens flat. Flip through the pages and work comfortably, one piece at a time.
- 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed: We’re sure you’ll love your Spiral Bound Hardcover Sketchbooks for drawing, but if this product does not perform to your expectations, simply request a refund or a replacement.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Are the pages white or cream colored |
| Answer: | The pages aren't stark white. I think some would say they are cream colored. I use the pages for writing rather than drawing, and they are perfect for what I do. |
| Question: | Is the paper rough or smooth |
| Answer: | It’s smooth. A little more tooth than computer paper but nothing I would call rough. |
| Question: | Can the spirals be opened/removed |
| Answer: | I haven't tried to remove it, but I can see that it can be pulled apart. The pages are also perforated, so you can easily tear them out. |
| Question: | Are these sketch books 100 pages each or 200 pages? The description states 100 pages, but the images show each book has 200 pages |
| Answer: | The ones I got are 64 pages each book, and i bought a pack of 3 sketch books. |
Melissa & Doug Mini Sketch Pad Bundle (3 Pack)
Melissa & Doug
Product description
Nothing is better for art-on-the-go than these wire-bound pads of professional quality paper. Sketch artists, of every age, will appreciate the handy size and the smoothly tearing edge. They even comes with two sketch starters inside the front cover!. For more than 30 years, Melissa & Doug has created beautifully designed imagination- and creativity-sparking products that NBC News called “the gold standard in early childhood play.” We design every toy to the highest quality standards, and to nurture minds and hearts. If your child is not inspired, give us a call and we'll make it right. Our phone number is on every product!
From the Manufacturer
From classic wooden toys to crafts, pretend play, and games, Melissa & Doug products provide a launch pad to ignite imagination and a sense of wonder in all children so they can discover themselves, their passions, and their purpose.
Since the company’s founding more than 25 years ago, Melissa & Doug has consistently delivered innovative products that inspire open-ended thinking, encourage kids to see new possibilities, and offer Countless Ways to Play. It’s part of a bigger vision to Take Back Childhood. Because by giving children a true childhood with the space and freedom to explore their world, we give them a path to realizing their full potential!
- Each pad contains 50 pages of fade-resistant, acid-free white paper
- Includes step-by-step instructions for drawing a goldfish and butterfly.
- Great for pencils, charcoals, markers, and crayons
- Great for group art!
- Perfect for a stocking stuffer
User questions & answers
| Question: | How do these hold up to Sharpies |
| Answer: | It’s regular white ruled paper so I assume the sharpie would bleed through the page. |
| Question: | What are the measurements please |
| Answer: | If I had to guess, I’d say 5x7. I gave it to a 6 year old girl as a gift. |
| Question: | Would you say the sheets are half the size of a printer sheet (being 8.5 x 11)? Also, are they perforated for easy tear out |
| Answer: | Hi, The paper measures 6" X 9" Best, Your Friends at Melissa & Doug |
| Question: | To manufacturer: will this paper size work with spirograph jr |
| Answer: | Hi, The paper measures 6" X 9". As we are not the manufacturer of Spirograph Jr. We can not comment on what paper size they recommend. Best, Your Friends at Melissa & Doug |
Product features
Countless Ways To Play
Experts say the best toys are those that encourage interaction. Our toys are designed to inspire engagement and connection with your child. Many even include enrichment ideas right on the packaging. Because kids who can imagine the possibilities become grown-ups who can make their dreams a reality!
Our Story
Melissa and Doug are real people (and parents of six) who are passionate about the power of play!
Our Mission
To ignite imagination and wonder so children discover themselves, their passions, and their purpose.
Our Toys
Made with quality and care, our toys inspire a world of discovery and hands-on learning.
Our Promise
The Melissa & Doug signature on every product is our commitment to the highest standards.
Bachmore Sketchpad 9X12" Inch (68lb/100g), 100 Sheets of TOP Spiral Bound Sketch Book for Artist Pro & Amateurs | Marker Art, Colored Pencil, Charcoal for Sketching
Product description
1) Can be used as drawing practice books, keep your drafts if you don’t want to throw away or you can easily remove any piece of paper.
2) Make wonderful using experiences & memories for beginners, students and even professionals. Whether you’re just starting out in art class, drawing doodles at home, or practicing on paper before you move to canvas, our art drawing paper is perfect for every level of artist.
3) They may be nice & considerate gifts for people who love painting.
NOTICE:
If you are unsatisfied with these sketch pads, before you are going to complain to Amazon, do please contact us for refund or replacement. We would be glad to assist you at your convenience.
- WONDERFUL DESIGN FEATURES - Top spiral make our sketchpad friendly for both left-handed and right-handed, paper inside the sketchbook is very beautiful & smooth while drawing. Pages are easily torn from the notebook with punctures. Perfect use for adults & kids.
- SUPER PRACTICAL CHARACTERISTICS - These papers are made of acid-free paper with thick, strong, slick-smooth white & durable features. These papers can be used for any dry pens like Oily color pencils, charcoal, sketching stick, and other dry media pencils.
- HARDBOUND SKETCH PAD: 100% handmade hard covers, especially the hard bottom pad both of the covers defiantly help protect your artwork safely.
- INCLUDES - 1 pack of sketchbook with size 9’’ x 12’’, 100 inside paper. The weight for each paper is 68lb/100gram, which is much thicker and better than the similar sketchbook offered by other brands such as Canson and Strathmore.
- MONEY BACK GUARANTEE - If you're ever unsatisfied with this product or any of our other products, please contact us and we'll either send you a replacement or a full refund within one month!
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is it 9x12 after the perforation or including it |
| Answer: | dear customer,at present, only the 8.5x11 pages are perforted |
| Question: | Does it bleed through to the other page if you use Ink or markers |
| Answer: | They do bleed through a bit so you need something under the paper but it works well. |
| Question: | Is it perforated |
| Answer: | Micron and similar drawing pens won't bleed through most papers even thin papers. I've used microns in my sketchbook 60lb/90gsm and it didn't bleed through. You'll see show through and ghosting, but likely no bleed through. |
| Question: | Can I use oil pastels |
| Answer: | Very sturdy |
U.S. Art Supply 9" x 12" Premium Spiral Bound Sketch Pad, (Pack of 2 Pads) Each Pad has 100-Sheets, 60 Pound (100gsm) (Pack of 2 Pads)
- Acid Free, Neutral pH, Spiral Bound Natural White Sheets for Easy Removal
- Standard Weight and Versatile Smooth Paper made to Accept all Mixed Media
- Ideal for Writing, Drawing & Sketching. Use with Pens, Markers, Pencils and more
- Pack of 2 Pads
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is it light enough to be carried around in a bag all day |
| Answer: | Yes it is light enough |
| Question: | Is this 100 separate sheets or is it 50 sheets and they are including front and back to say it's |
| Answer: | Lol It’s 100 separate sheets.... |
| Question: | Can these pages be ripped out nicely (dotted line |
| Answer: | Yes, the pages are perforated along the edge and can be easily removed. |
| Question: | Will this stand up to markers, really |
| Answer: | No, I would think 65Lbs. paper or better. |
GIFTEXPRESS Bound Spiral Premium Sketch Book Sketch Pads Set, 4 Pads x30-Sheets, 8.5" X 11" Side Wire Bound, White 120 Paper Sheets for Pencil Ink Pastel
Product description
GIFTEXPRESS value sketch book pack of 4. Acid-Free, spiral-bound pad, Ideal for wet and dry media, sketching, drawing, and painting, premium art sketchbook drawing paper book. Creativity starts from a sketch!
Package included: 4 pads x 30 sheets per pad, total 120 paper sheets.
- Perfect sketch book for arts, crafts and sewing, excellent for pencil, ink, pastel, charcoal and crayon
- Acid-free, each sheet colors won’t deteriorate over time
- Sketch Pad Notebook 8.5" X 11"
- 4 pads x 30 sheets per pad, total 120 paper sheets
User questions & answers
| Question: | what pound is this? im looking for 65-80lb paper |
| Answer: | I believe it is 140 lb. |
| Question: | What is the weight is it 60 or |
| Answer: | I am not positive but i would say 80 - 120 |
| Question: | Is the paper light weight or heavyweight |
| Answer: | It is medium weight. |
| Question: | Do these have a perf line to tear out pages |
| Answer: | No |
Strathmore 455-3 400 Series Sketch Pad, 9"x12" Wire Bound, 100 Sheets
Strathmore
Product description
The Strathmore, 400 Series Sketch Pad contains a heavyweight sketch paper perfect for art exploration. With a fine tooth surface, this sketch pad is ideal for classroom experimentation, practicing various techniques, and quick studies with dry media. The Strathmore, 400 Series Sketch Pad provides a great way to track your progression over time in a convenient and transportable pad.
- Great for graphite pencil, colored pencil, charcoal, sketching stick, marker, soft pastel, mixed media, oil pastel
- Micro-perforated wire bound sheets
- Heavyweight sketch paper
- Intended for practice of techniques, quick studies and preliminary drawing with any dry media
- Acid free; Made in the USA
User questions & answers
| Question: | This pad is good enough for watercolors |
| Answer: | It is supposed to have a 3D view, I haven't figured it out yet. |
| Question: | do you have to be good at drawing |
| Answer: | I was one of those who complained about the Mac download, however it seems to be both. You should be fine if you're running Windows 10. |
| Question: | will pens bleed through these paper pads |
| Answer: | Check the program instructions. You may be able to download it on multiple computers. |
| Question: | Is there any nudity in this book? Hoping for a family friendly gift option |
| Answer: | I don't believe so. But every year when I am planning for a landscape project I usually draw everything. Now have just taken my measurements and used program. It can do your measurements for design. Its definitely not a professional job. But it gives a good visual for your plans on paper. |
Drawing Paper Pad: Blank Drawing Pad Notepad, 8.5" x 11" (21.59 x 27.94 cm), 100 pages, 50 sheets, Soft Durable Matte Cover(Brown)
Artisto 9x12" Premium Sketch Book Set, Spiral Bound, Pack of 2, 200 Sheets (100g/m2), Acid-Free Drawing Paper, Ideal for Kids, Teens & Adults.
Product description
Artisto sketchbook
- Premium Paper Quality - Feel the difference, enjoy spiral bound sketch pads for drawing that offers 200 bright white sketch paper with perfect texture for drawing, sketching and illustrating. All at the affordable price.
- Perfect for all artists - Whether you are the veteran or novice artist you are sure to find the right sketchbook for your needs. This set of sketchbooks works excellently with all dry media including pen, pencil, charcoal, pastels, crayons, and sketching sticks.
- Each sheet measures 9x12 inches Acid-Free (pH Neutral) paper - 68lb./100gsm. Appreciate how color, absorbency, texture, weight and size contribute to help you create different artistic effects.
- Spiral-bound makes it smoothly and easily to turn to pages. Plus, every page is micro-perforated, it allows you to easily remove single pages as and when required.
- 100% Guaranteed: If your product does not perform to your expectations, just let us know & we will send you a free replacement or refund you!
Strathmore 400-3 STR-400-3 24 Sheet No.80 Drawing Pad, 8 by 10", 8"x10", 8 X 10 Inches
Strathmore
Product description
This item is 8x10 80# drawing pad 24 sheet pad. This item is manufactured in United States. This item belongs to art and craft supplies.
- There are 24 sheets per pad of 80 pound / 130gsm paper
- Perfectly suited to line drawings and technical artwork
- Has a non-reflective and fine uniform surface
- The medium surface readily accepts crayon - pencil - pen - charcoal - paints
- Made in the USA
User questions & answers
| Question: | I'm new to colored pencil......... is this the right kind of paper to buy for this |
| Answer: | It is good for colored pencil. Buy the smaller pad to experiment with to see if you like it and remember there are 2 sides to the paper. Not being facetious, The sides are usually slightly different in "tooth" so one side might work better for you than the other. Good luck! |
| Question: | what is the shipping cost |
| Answer: | Free I think at least if you are a member. It was free for me |
| Question: | Are the tiny indents lines on the paper? Or dots? I can't find charcoal paper without lines which ruin fine details. Thanks |
| Answer: | My purchase was a gift sent elsewhere, FWIW, in my very modest experience with using charcoal to draw on paper, the textured surface takes on the charcoal easier than the smooth surface. |
| Question: | i need to know what series has NO spirial as binder to send to jail inmate |
| Answer: | The Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Paper Pad has NO spiral binder |
Product features
Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Paper
Our cream colored drawing paper is perfect for finished artwork. Available in medium or smooth surface that is always durable. Strathmore drawing paper can withstand repeated erasing and reworking to make the best of your artwork.
Trusted by Artists for Generations
Our smooth and medium drawing paper provides an ideal surface for your artistic pursuits. Medium surface readily accepts pencil, charcoal, and sketching sticks. Also good for soft pastel, oil pastel, marker, and pen and ink. Smooth surface, with its non-reflective finish and uniform formation, is especially suited for line drawing and technical detail work. Art by William Rose.
Think Big - Create without Limits
The Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Artist Roll is the perfect paper for large scale drawing projects and an ideal compliment to any of the 400 Series Drawing products. Great for large scale finished pieces or collaborative work.
Drawing Pad: 8.5" X 11", Personalized Drawing Sketchbook, 100 pages, Durable Soft Cover,Art Pencil Set-[Professional Binding]
Createspace Independent Publishing Platform
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