Page Text: 12. M+R pencil sharpener
Sketchbooks
In 2022, I switched from a Stillman & Birn Beta sketchbook to a Hahnemuhle watercolor sketchbook as my daily-carry. I still use Beta in the studio, but in the field, I prefer the Hahnemuhle's texture and A5 format.
I also always carry a pocket-size Field Notes notebook, most often a red Sweet Tooth edition , but occasionally others for variety, like the slightly larger Signature edition (see below). This small book is handy for quick, perhaps discreetly made sketches of people on public transportation or other situations when I don’t necessarily need or want my full-size sketchbook. (This post describes how I use a Field Notes for a variety of daily purposes.)
At my studio desk, I also use a variety of Stillman & Birn sketchbooks for still lives and product testing.
My daily-carry Field Notes
Everyday Sketch Kit, Pandemic Edition
Who knew that a global pandemic would call for a revised sketch kit? This post describes how I use it and details of what's inside.
A Rickshaw Bags pencil case is the right size for a minimal sketch kit. (2020)
Rickshaw Zero Messenger Bag in the "mini" size, Pandemic Edition
For more information about how I organize my bag and sketch materials, please see this page.
Cafe and Car Sketching
In winter when I do most of my urban sketching in coffee shops and from my mobile studio -- situations when I don't stand while sketching -- the Sendak Mini Artist Roll leans up against the steering wheel or on the cafe table.
Mini Sendak when sketching in my car. (2/22)
On the Sidewalk
When I'm sketching on location, I prefer to stand. My opened mini Sendak and my other organizer keep all materials and tools standing upright and easily accessible.
Bird's eye view of my Rickshaw Bagworks Zero messenger bag and its contents. (2/22)
In the Studio
Struggling to draw with my non-dominant hand!
But the Art Stand Desktop Easel helps immensely.
During these pandemic times, I've spent more time than usual sketching in my studio. Although I use most of the same favorite materials at home as I do on location, I have a few indispensable tools that I use only in my studio: