A hand holidng two Artgecko Sketchbooks in front of green background with the title of this blog post overlayed on top of the image.
Artgecko Sketch 3 min read
How to Choose the Right Sketchbook Paper for Your Media Of Choice

Choosing the right sketchbook starts with choosing the right paper. This guide breaks down the Artgecko paper types available across our sketchbook ranges, from lightweight cartridge paper for dry media and pen to heavier acrylic, hybrid and watercolour papers for painting and mixed media. Whether you have a favourite medium or enjoy experimenting with everything, find a sketchbook that supports the way you create.

Sketchbook page open with paint marker pen and doodled lines across it, with the words "How to Improve Your Paint Markers Sketches" types on top of the image.
Artgecko Sketch 3 min read
How to Improve Your Paint Marker Sketches

Paint markers are a brilliant tool for bold, colourful artwork, but they can take a little practice to master. If you want to improve your paint marker sketches and create cleaner, more confident results, the good news is that a few simple techniques can make a big difference.

In this guide, we’ll share five easy ways to level up your paint marker art, from choosing the right paper to planning your colour palette before you begin.

Artgecko Book Bands - Your Favourite New Sketching Companion
Artgecko Sketch 4 min read
Artgecko Book Bands - Your Favourite New Sketching Companion

Sketchbooks are wonderful things. They’re a place to let your imagination roam free and a space to switch off from the world while building your creative skills.

That works perfectly when your setup is static, tucked into one dedicated space. But the moment you want to sketch on the train, head to your local park, or take your creativity on the go, keeping all your supplies in one place can quickly become a challenge.

Well, not anymore!

Introducing Artgecko Book Bands! These are an easy, practical solution designed for artists who want to create anytime, anywhere. These elastic sketchbook bands feature three secure loops and slip effortlessly on and off your sketchbook. They stretch to accommodate expanding pages, while also keeping loose sheets neatly tucked inside.

Image of an acrylic pad on a wooden table with paints. There is text over the top which says "Unlock Bold Colour: Top Tips For Using Acrylic Paints"
Artgeckosketch Admin 11 min read
Unlock Bold Colour: Top Tips for Using Acrylic Paints

In the world of art, the tools and surfaces you choose can transform the way you create. Acrylic paints are one of the most versatile mediums available to artists, students and hobbyists alike. Pair them with the right sketchbooks, pads and canvases, and they become a powerful way to explore bold colour, texture and mixed media. In this article, we’ll walk through top tips for using acrylic paints with confidence, and show how the right Artgecko surfaces help you get the very best from every brushstroke.

A square sketchbook, open on the green background with a title that says "It's Hip To Choose A Square Sketchbook"
Artgeckosketch Admin 5 min read
It's Hip To Choose A Square Sketchbook! Reasons To Ditch A Rectangular Format

That moment when you finish a sketchbook brings a mix of emotions. Delight, relief, excitement, inspiration… and then a little dread. Questions start racing through your mind:

"What will go in my next sketchbook?"
"Which media should I choose?"
And most importantly… "what size and format should I pick?"

After a quick online search, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Conflicting advice, endless sketchbook brands, and format debates make choosing your next book, way harder than it needs to be. That’s why we’ve put together this guide! Created to explore why thinking outside the rectangle and going for square as your next sketchbook, could be the creative refresh you didn’t know you needed.

Why the Extra Classy Gecko Sketchbook Stands Out: A Deep Dive Into Artgecko’s Newest Sketchbook
Artgeckosketch Admin 4 min read
Why the Extra Classy Gecko Sketchbook Stands Out: A Deep Dive Into Artgecko’s Newest Sketchbook

We are thrilled to announce that we have just launched a brand new product to the range! Meet the Extra Classy Sketchbook. With a name like that, you might be wondering what makes it so special. Keep reading for a closer look at this sketchbook and discover why it truly earns the name “Extra”.

Finding the right paper type for you - Artgecko papers explained.
Artgeckosketch Admin 6 min read
Finding the right paper type for you - Artgecko papers explained.

All artists know that the foundation of a brilliant masterpiece is good-quality materials. While the saying goes “a bad workman blames his tools”, the reality is that poor art supplies can genuinely hinder your practice. From coloured pencils that snap every 15 minutes to markers that bleed across the page instead of blending, we feel your pain.

With so many options available, finding the right supplies for your work can be a lengthy and frustrating process. That’s why we’ve pulled together this handy guide, breaking down each of our paper types to help you find the right grade and texture for your art style. It should also make choosing the best sketchbook for your needs a whole lot easier.

How to Slow Down & Make Something this Christmas: Ideas From Cards to Sketchbook Play
Artgeckosketch Admin 6 min read
How to Slow Down & Make Something this Christmas: Ideas From Cards to Sketchbook Play

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.