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6 Ways to Make Sketchbooks

6 Ways to Make Sketchbooks
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by Andrea Mulder-Slater

When I was a student at art school, my drawing professor had one rule and that was to draw, every single day. From her I learned there were no tricks to learning how to draw well. No shortcuts. She always told her students that the only way to become a skilled artist was to pick up a pencil and draw. And she was right!

Having a sketchbook is a terrific way for kids to practice their drawing skills because it can be a place for them to record ideas and make quick sketches on the go without fear of judgement. Even your youngest students can help to make sketchbooks and your older students should be able to make their own without help.

Note: This is a KinderArt Club Bonus Lesson

The supplies you use will depend on what kind of sketchbook you will be making. I’ve listed the supplies I used to create the books seen in the pages of our free downloadable e-book. The key is to find inexpensive materials. (These books should cost just pennies.)

What You Need

  • 80lb Sulphite drawing paper (12″ x 18″)
  • Computer paper (8 1/2″ x 11″)
  • Construction paper (decent quality, like Tru Ray)
  • Scrapbooking paper
  • Cardboard scraps
  • File folders
  • A hole punch 
  • Scissors
  • Rope, twine or ribbon
  • Paper clips (large)
  • Elastic bands
  • Paper fasteners

What You Do:

Gather your materials and follow the step-by-step instructions found in the free 17 page downloadable guide.

Downloadable PDF:


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