For anyone unfamiliar with their potential, paint markers can feel like magic. They deliver bold, opaque colour with minimal effort and work across a wide range of surfaces - from paper and wood to glass and metal. However, when it comes to using paint markers on paper, the results can vary depending on your technique and, importantly, your choice of sketchbook.

In this guide, we’ll cover what paint markers are, how artists use them, and how to get the best results when working in a sketchbook.

Christmas has a way of sneaking up on us. One minute it’s September, the next you’re knee deep in wrapping paper, half written lists, and a calendar full of social plans. It’s brilliant, but it’s a lot. This is exactly why, every year, more people reach for a sketchbook, some craft supplies, or even a fresh A4 sketchbook as a way to slow down and make the season feel a little more thoughtful.

Read on to find some inspiration to get creative this Christmas whilst balancing the busy times of the season.

Think you’re too busy to sketch every day? Think again! Building a daily sketching habit doesn’t mean hours of work - just a few minutes with your favourite sketchbook. Whether it’s quick doodles in your A5 travel sketchbook or bold ideas in your A3 all media book, those small moments add up to big creative growth.

Take a read of this blog for our tips, tricks and more on getting into the routine of a daily sketching habit and up your creative skills.

One of the most common problems artists face when using a sketchbook is paint and ink bleed. You finally create a bold, colourful page - only to turn the sheet and find the pigment has seeped right through. Whether you’re working in a pro sketchbook or an A4 sketchbook, bleed-through is one of the biggest frustrations in creative work.

The good news? With the right paper, tools, and techniques, you can stop paint bleed in your sketchbook and keep your artwork looking clean and professional.