10 Practical Tips to Save Money on Sketchbooks for Sketching

Published on 31 July 2023 9 min read

Buy in Bulk
Look for Sales and Discounts
Use Reusable Sketch Pads
Try Different Brands
Opt for Less Expensive Paper
Reuse and Recycle Old Sketchbooks
Make Your Own Sketchbook
Buy Online for Better Deals
Check Out Secondhand Stores
Trade and Swap with Fellow Artists

Sketching is a wonderful way to express your creativity, but let's face it, sketchbooks can be surprisingly costly. If you're an artist who doodles, draws, or sketches regularly, finding ways on "how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching?" can significantly cut down on your expenses. Here are ten practical tips to keep your sketching passion alive without burning a hole in your pocket.

Buy in Bulk

When it comes to saving money on sketchbooks for sketching, buying in bulk is a game changer. It's akin to buying a whole pizza instead of a slice—you get more for less. Here's why:

Economies of Scale: The more you buy, the less you pay per unit. With sketchbooks, bulk purchases often come with price cuts. You could find packs of 5, 10 or even 20 sketchbooks at a lower cost per book than if you bought them individually.
Reduced Shipping Costs: If you're shopping online, buying multiple sketchbooks at once can save you on shipping costs. Instead of paying separate shipping fees for each book, you pay a single fee for the entire order.
Stocking Up: When you buy in bulk, you won't need to restock as often. This means fewer trips to the store or less time spent ordering online, effectively saving you time and energy.

Remember, sketchbooks don't have an expiry date. You can buy them in large quantities and use them over time without worrying about them going bad. However, consider your storage space before going all out. You don't want to turn your living room into a sketchbook warehouse!

So, next time you're thinking about "how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching?", remember that buying in bulk can be a smart move. It's a little like buying a year's supply of your favorite cereal—it might seem like a lot at first, but you'll be thankful when you're still enjoying it months later without having to shop again.

Look for Sales and Discounts

We all love a good bargain, don't we? And when it comes to saving on sketchbooks, sales and discounts can be your best friends. There's a certain thrill in getting the same quality product at a lower price. Here's how you can hunt for the best deals:

Seasonal Sales: Businesses often run sales during certain seasons or holidays. This could be back-to-school sales, Christmas sales, or even New Year sales. Mark your calendar for these big sale events and stock up on your sketchbooks.
Coupons and Discount Codes: Many online stores and even physical stores offer coupons and discount codes. These can give you a percentage off the total price, or even a buy-one-get-one-free offer. Keep an eye out for these money-saving codes.
Sign Up for Newsletters: If there's a brand or store you frequently buy your sketchbooks from, consider signing up for their newsletter. They often send out information about upcoming sales or special discounts for their subscribers.

Remember, just like in a treasure hunt, the key to finding the best deals is patience and persistence. You may need to do some digging and research, but when you do find that perfect sale or discount, the savings can be well worth the effort.

So, in your quest for "how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching?", don't overlook the power of sales and discounts. After all, everyone loves to feel like they've nabbed a bargain, right?

Use Reusable Sketch Pads

Remember when your math teacher always said, "Practice makes perfect"? The same applies to sketching. The more you sketch, the better you get. But all that practicing can mean going through a lot of sketchbooks. So, how about opting for a more sustainable option? Enter reusable sketch pads.

A reusable sketch pad, as the name suggests, is a type of sketchbook that allows you to erase your sketches and use the same page again. It's like a magic slate for artists! This means you can sketch, erase, and sketch again on the same page without having to buy a new sketchbook. And let's just say, it's not only kind to your pockets but also to Mother Earth.

Think it through: Before you start sketching, take a moment to plan your sketch. This way, you'll make fewer mistakes and won't have to erase and redo as much.
Practice on scrap paper first: If you're trying a new technique or style, practice on a piece of scrap paper first. Once you get the hang of it, you can then sketch it on your reusable sketch pad.

So, the next time you're wondering "how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching?", think reusable. It's a win-win for both your wallet and the environment.

Try Different Brands

Are you loyal to a specific brand of sketchbooks? While that's not a bad thing, sticking to one brand can sometimes make you miss out on other great options. It's like always ordering the same dish at a restaurant and never getting to taste the other delicious meals on the menu. So, let's shake things up a bit.

Not all sketchbooks are created equal. Different brands offer different features — varying in paper quality, binding style, size, and more. Some might be pricier due to brand reputation, while others could offer similar quality for a lower price. The trick here is not to judge a sketchbook by its brand.

Explore: Try out sketchbooks from different brands. You might find that a less well-known, more affordable brand suits your needs just as well, if not better.
Review: Read online reviews about different sketchbook brands. These can provide insights into a brand's quality and value for money.

Remember, it's not about the brand; it's about what works best for you. So next time you're puzzling over "how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching?" don't be afraid to stray from your usual brand. Exploring different brands could lead you to a sketchbook that's perfect for your needs and your budget.

Opt for Less Expensive Paper

Here's a fun fact: not all sketching requires high-end, heavy-weight paper. In fact, for some types of sketching, a less expensive paper might serve you just as well. So, let's think about paper differently.

The paper world is vast and diverse. From cartridge paper to newsprint, each type has its unique advantages and—bonus!—various price points. You might be surprised at how much you can save by simply switching the type of paper you use.

Experiment: Try sketching on different types of paper. You might find that a less pricey option like cartridge paper or newsprint works well for your sketches.
Research: Understand what each type of paper offers. For instance, newsprint is affordable and great for quick sketches, while cartridge paper is versatile and slightly more durable.

It's like choosing between a gourmet burger and a home-cooked meal. Both can be delicious, but one is definitely friendlier on the wallet. So, when you're thinking about "how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching?" remember that opting for less expensive paper is a smart and practical choice.

Reuse and Recycle Old Sketchbooks

Just like old clothes have the potential to become trendy outfits with a little creativity, your old sketchbooks can be a goldmine for saving money. It's time to get creative and eco-friendly at the same time.

Do you have sketchbooks with unfinished or abandoned sketches? Don't just let them gather dust. Here's what you can do:

Revamp: Revisit those old sketches and add new life to them. You might be surprised at how your style has evolved and how you can now improve those pieces.
Reuse: Got blank pages? Use them for new sketches. Just because a sketchbook has a few used pages doesn't mean the rest should go to waste.

But what if your sketchbook is filled to the brim? No problem: There's a solution for that, too.

Recycle: Used pages with sketches you're not too fond of can be recycled. You can use them for testing out new techniques, color schemes, or even as a palette for mixing paints.

Remember, when you're asking yourself "how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching?" reusing and recycling old sketchbooks can make a big difference. Not only will you save money, but you'll also help save the planet—one sketchbook at a time.

Make Your Own Sketchbook

Ever thought of crafting your own sketchbook? It's easier than you might think, and it's a fun, satisfying project that can save you some cash. Here's how you can do it.

First, you need to gather your materials. You can use any type of paper you like, such as printer paper, watercolor paper, or even recycled paper. Remember, it's your sketchbook, so feel free to mix and match!

Next, think about the cover. You can use cardboard, an old book cover, or even fabric. Get creative and personalize it to reflect your unique style.

Now comes the part where you assemble your sketchbook. There are several ways to do this:

Stapling: This is the most straightforward method. Just stack your pages, fold them in half, and staple along the fold.
Sewing: If you want a more durable sketchbook, you can sew the pages together. There are plenty of easy tutorials online to guide you through the process.

Remember, the goal here is not perfection but creativity. Your homemade sketchbook doesn't have to look like something out of a store. It just has to serve its purpose—providing you with a platform for your art.

So next time when you're wondering how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching, why not try making your own? You might discover a new hobby in the process!

Buy Online for Better Deals

Ever noticed how prices in physical stores can make your wallet feel a bit light? Well, don't fret. Shopping online is a smart strategy for snagging better deals on sketchbooks. Here's why:

Online platforms often offer discounts and deals that you won't find in brick-and-mortar stores. Plus, you have the luxury of comparing prices from different retailers at the click of a button. No more hopping from one store to another!

Also, let's not forget the convenience. You can shop from the comfort of your home, at any time of the day. No more worrying about store hours or long checkout lines.

Tip 1: Bookmark your favorite online stores and check them regularly for sales and discounts.
Tip 2: Sign up for newsletters or download shopping apps. They often send out exclusive deals to their subscribers.
Tip 3: Make use of the wishlist or cart feature. Add the sketchbooks you like and wait for their prices to drop. Patience is key!

So, next time you're pondering on how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching, consider doing your shopping online. It's like having a huge, never-ending sale at your fingertips!

Check Out Secondhand Stores

Let's go on a little treasure hunt, shall we? Secondhand stores can be goldmines for affordable sketchbooks. Here's the scoop:

Many artists, both amateur and professional, sell their gently used or brand new sketchbooks to secondhand stores. Why? Sometimes they simply bought too many, or the sketchbook didn't quite match their specific needs. And guess what? Their loss is your gain!

Tip 1: Make a list of secondhand stores in your area. Don't forget to include thrift shops, pawn shops, and consignment stores.
Tip 2: Make regular visits. Inventory in secondhand stores changes often, so keep an eye out for new arrivals.
Tip 3: Examine the sketchbooks carefully before purchasing. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as creased pages or broken bindings.

Who knows? You might find a high-quality sketchbook at a bargain price. Remember, one person's clutter could be your next favorite sketching companion. And that, my friend, is how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching — by giving pre-loved items a second chance.

Trade and Swap with Fellow Artists

Alright, let's talk about a win-win situation here. Trading and swapping sketchbooks with fellow artists not only helps you save money, but also builds a sense of community. Here's how you can do it:

Tip 1: Connect with other artists. This could be through local art clubs, online communities, or even art classes. Building these connections can open up opportunities for trade and swap.
Tip 2: Offer up sketchbooks you're not using. If you have sketchbooks collecting dust, why not trade them for something you'll actually use? One artist's unused sketchbook could be exactly what another artist needs.
Tip 3: Set clear expectations. Be honest about the condition of your sketchbooks and ask the same of others. This ensures everyone is happy with the trade.

Just remember, the goal is not just to save money, but to build relationships with other artists. Who knows, you might learn a thing or two from them! So, that's another way on how to save money on sketchbooks for sketching. Happy swapping!

If you found these money-saving tips for sketchbooks helpful and want to learn even more about sketching, don't miss the workshop 'Top Tips For Sketchbook Studies' by Rachelle Meyer. This workshop will provide you with valuable advice on how to make the most of your sketchbook and develop your sketching skills further.