Hi friends! I got an Arrtx A4 Sketchbook review for you today. Arrtx has kindly sent me this as a gift, with no obligations for a review, but I thought I would share my experiences anyway because it looks like a nice sketchbook.
Specs of Arrtx A4 Sketchbook
This hardcover, exposed spine bound sketchbook measures 8.5×11.8×0.75″, and has 60 pages of 180g/90lb, acid-free wood pulp paper. However, the most attractive feature of this is that the sketchbook lays flat. I wish my other sketchbooks could lay flat like this! Moreover, the pages can tear away easily and not leave a trace, so good for those who fear an artwork they dislike ruining the sketchbook.
Paper Texture
My iPhone overprocesses pictures, so the texture looked enhanced. In reality, the paper is smooth. At 90lb it is not a thick paper, but thick enough for pencil sketches. In addition, I have put the paper to the test against claims of being able to handle watercolour and markers, as you will see.
Use With Graphite Pencils
First, I used Arrtx Sketching Pencils on the paper. I think this sketchbook is best for pencil sketches. However, the paper doesn’t have a lot of tooth, so you may not be able to build too many layers. Still, you can definitely do shading and light layers just fine.
Acrylic Markers on Arrtx A4 Sketchbook
When I reviewed Arrtx SIMPTAP acrylic markers in a previous post, I tested the markers on this sketchbook. There was no bleed through, and you can use the page behind it.
Since the paper texture is fairly smooth (not as smooth as Strathmore’s marker paper though), the acrylic markers go on nicely without oversaturating the paper or damaging the nib.
Use With Watercolour
Next, I did a simple line and wash painting with the Grabie 100 watercolour set and Faber-Castell Pitt pen. The paper barely buckled and it was quite a surprise to me, as I am used to painting on 300lb paper. I used very little water (super light wash). Looks like I may be able to use this sketchbook to do primarily line and wash paintings!
Use With Alcohol Markers
Although Arrtx did not specify which type of markers you can use with this sketchbook, I saw a few reviews on Amazon commenting on specifically alcohol markers bleeding through. For this review, I decided to test Arrtx alcohol markers on the paper.
While the ink went on fine, there were several places where the paint bled through. I had anticipated this, so I inserted a pencil board under the page before to protect the pages underneath.
The few places where the ink bled through were where I did more heavy blending, with an alcohol blender. If you intend to use alcohol markers with this sketchbook, definitely put a sheet underneath!
Use with India Ink and Oil-Based Markers
Lastly, I tested the Arrtx A4 Sketchbook with India ink and oil-based markers. I did a quick sketch and the ink did not bleed through.
Overall Arrtx A4 Sketchbook Review
To recap, Arrtx A4 Sketchbook lays flat and has good paper for pencil sketches, acrylic markers and can even handle light washes of watercolour. The hardcover feels substantial and sturdy, and the binding makes it very easy to use. Even though media like alcohol markers could bleed through, most other types of markers work on it quite well with minimal ghosting like it claims. It’s a very nice sketchbook overall and it surprises me that I could use it for ink and wash.
To Purchase:
Arrtx A4 Sketchbook
US: https://amzn.to/4fa0gr9
CA: https://amzn.to/46aB6Eo
Official: https://bit.ly/3RXN4LW
AliExpress: https://bit.ly/3WnnJxs
Disclaimer: Arrtx gifted me this sketchbook with no obligation for a review. This post is not sponsored and my opinion is my own. Links to the products are for your convenience only; I do not make commission off the sale of this product.
