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”.

What on earth is GSM?

Before we jump in, we thought we would break down a few paper terms for you, in case you’re reading this and feeling a little lost. GSM stands for Grams per Square Metre and is an indication of how thick or thin paper is. The higher the number, the thicker the paper.

Some common examples of GSM thickness include:

• 40–50gsm: Newspaper
• 80gsm: Standard everyday printer/copier paper
• 100–120gsm: Slightly heavier paper for quality prints and flyers
• 160gsm+: Considered card, ideal for menus or posters
• 200–300gsm+: Stiff card used for business cards, greeting cards, and invitations

The Artgecko range includes paper thicknesses starting at 150gsm and going all the way up to 300gsm.

Extra Classy Sketchbook: an Extra special book

With a name that includes “Extra”, it certainly suggests that there’s something more to it than just being a regular sketchbook. But what does that actually mean? Let’s take a closer look.

This sketchbook is part of our Classy Range, making it an All Media Sketchbook just like our other 150gsm Classy Sketchbooks. However, the Extra Classy Sketchbook contains 200gsm All Media Cartridge Paper. This makes it not only super smooth, but also super strong, perfect for handling a wide variety of media.

What can you use on 200gsm All Media Cartridge Paper?

One of the reasons the Extra Classy Sketchbook truly earns its name is the paper inside. At 200gsm, this All Media Cartridge Paper is thicker and stronger than standard sketchbook paper, making it incredibly versatile for artists who love to experiment.

Perfect for dry media

The smooth yet sturdy surface works beautifully with dry media, including:

• Graphite pencils (all grades)
• Coloured pencils
• Charcoal and Conte
• Chalk
• Soft and oil pastels (we recommend using a fixative)
• Fineliners and technical pens
• Ballpoint and gel pens

This makes it ideal for sketching, illustration, line work, and detailed studies.

Perfect for light wet media

Thanks to the heavier weight of the paper, the Extra Classy Sketchbook can also handle light wet media, such as:

• Watercolour (light washes)
• Gouache (thin layers)
• Diluted acrylic paint
• Ink washes
• Brush pens

For best results, we recommend building layers gradually and allowing each layer to dry before adding more.

A note on heavier media

While 200gsm paper is strong, it isn’t designed for extremely wet techniques. Heavy watercolour washes, very thick acrylic paint, or alcohol markers may cause buckling or bleed-through. If you’re planning very wet or heavily layered work, a 300gsm watercolour paper would be a better choice.

Why 200gsm makes this sketchbook “Extra”

The jump from 150gsm to 200gsm might not sound huge, but in practice, it makes a noticeable difference. You benefit from increased durability, less show-through, greater confidence when using mixed media, and a smoother, more premium feel.

Features of the Extra Classy Gecko

As mentioned, these sketchbooks contain 200gsm cartridge paper, and each one includes 40 sheets. They are available in A4 or A3 Twin Wire Portrait formats, encased in our iconic black soft-touch matte laminate covers.

They also feature the gecko green textured cover sheet at the front, along with the Gecko footprint stamp of approval on the back cover.

For all these reasons and more, this Gecko really is Extra special. It’s a brilliant choice for artists, illustrators, students, and creatives who want a sketchbook that can keep up with their ideas, whatever medium they choose.