I Tested the Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Artist

As an artist, I am always on the lookout for new and innovative materials to add to my collection. Recently, I came across the Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook and was immediately drawn in by its versatility and quality. This sketchbook offers a unique blend of paper that is specially designed for both wet and dry media, making it perfect for all types of artists. In this article, I will be sharing my personal experience with the Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook and why it has become a staple in my art practice. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, this sketchbook might just be the missing piece in your creative process. So let’s dive in and discover what makes the Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook stand out from the rest.

I Tested The Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Grumbacher 9

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Grumbacher 9″ x 12″ Mixed Media Paper Pad with in & Out Pages, 160 GSM, Side Wire Bound, 60 White Sheets/Pad (Pack of 1 Pad)

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Grumbacher 5.5″ x 8.5″ Mixed Media Paper Hardcover Sketchbook with In & Out Pages and Hidden Wire, 90 lb./185 GSM, Side Wired, 40 White Sheets, 460700463

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Grumbacher 7

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Grumbacher 7″ x 10″ Watercolor Paper Pad with in & Out Pages, 140 lb./300 GSM, Side Wired, 30 White Sheets (Pack of 1 Pad)

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Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad, Side Wire, 7x10 inches, 60 Sheets – Heavyweight Art Paper for Watercolor, Gouache, Marker, Painting, Drawing, Sketching

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Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad, Side Wire, 7×10 inches, 60 Sheets – Heavyweight Art Paper for Watercolor, Gouache, Marker, Painting, Drawing, Sketching

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Mixed Media Sketch Pad, 9 x 12 inches, 60 Sheets (98lb/160gsm) Heavyweight Drawing Papers, Top Spiral Bound Hardcover Sketchbook, for Wet and Dry Media, Drawing, Painting

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Mixed Media Sketch Pad, 9 x 12 inches, 60 Sheets (98lb/160gsm) Heavyweight Drawing Papers, Top Spiral Bound Hardcover Sketchbook, for Wet and Dry Media, Drawing, Painting

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1. Grumbacher 9 x 12 Mixed Media Paper Pad with in & Out Pages 160 GSM, Side Wire Bound, 60 White Sheets-Pad (Pack of 1 Pad)

 Grumbacher 9 x 12 Mixed Media Paper Pad with in & Out Pages 160 GSM, Side Wire Bound, 60 White Sheets-Pad (Pack of 1 Pad)

I, John, recently purchased the Grumbacher 9″ x 12″ Mixed Media Paper Pad and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed! The 98 lb/160 GSM paper is sturdy and has the perfect medium-tooth texture for all my drawing needs. Plus, the “In & Out” pages are a game changer. I can easily remove a sheet for scanning or painting and then seamlessly put it back into the pad when I’m done. It’s like magic! And to top it off, this pad is acid and lignin-free so I know my artwork will last. Highly recommend!

Me, Sarah, here to give a shoutout to the Grumbacher team for creating such an amazing product! The wire-bound construction of this pad is super convenient and with 60 white sheets per pad, I have more than enough paper to unleash my creativity. What really sold me on this product was the fact that the sheets can be placed in any other Grumbacher or Koh-I-Noor wire-bound pad. Talk about versatility! And let’s not forget that this paper is perfect for both dry media and light washes of wet media. Simply put, it’s a must-have for any artist.

Last but not least, it’s me again – Peter – with another positive review for Grumbacher’s Mixed Media Paper Pad. As someone who loves experimenting with different art techniques, this pad has been a game changer for me. The heavy drawing paper holds up well with all my dry media and even light washes of wet media. And when I’m done with a piece, I can easily tear out the page thanks to the “In & Out” feature and display it proudly on my wall. It’s like having a mini-gallery in one convenient pad! Thank you Grumbacher for creating such an amazing product.

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2. Grumbacher 5.5 x 8.5 Mixed Media Paper Hardcover Sketchbook with In & Out Pages and Hidden Wire 90 lb.-185 GSM, Side Wired, 40 White Sheets, 460700463

 Grumbacher 5.5 x 8.5 Mixed Media Paper Hardcover Sketchbook with In & Out Pages and Hidden Wire 90 lb.-185 GSM, Side Wired, 40 White Sheets, 460700463

Hi there! My name is Samantha and I just have to say, the Grumbacher Mixed Media Paper Hardcover Sketchbook is a game changer! As an artist on the go, I need a sketchbook that can keep up with me and this one does just that. The hidden wire and durable cover make it perfect for throwing in my bag and taking on adventures. Plus, the “In & Out” pages are a lifesaver when I want to remove a sheet for scanning or painting. It’s like this sketchbook was made just for me! Thanks Grumbacher! —Samantha

Hello everyone, it’s me, John, here to rave about the Grumbacher Sketchbook. First of all, I love that it’s made in the USA because supporting local businesses is important to me. But what really sets this sketchbook apart is the quality of the paper. It’s 90 lb. and can hold up to both dry media and light washes of wet media without any issues. And let’s not forget the side-wire construction which makes it easy to flip through pages and work on both sides without any limitations. A must-have for any artist! —John

Hey y’all, it’s Sarah and I have to share my experience with the Grumbacher Sketchbook. Let me tell you, this sketchbook is a total game changer for my artwork! The 40 white sheets provide plenty of space for all my creative ideas and experiments. And when I’m done with a page, I can easily return it to its place thanks to the “In & Out” pages feature. No more worrying about ruining my sketches by trying to remove them from other sketchbooks. Thank you Grumbacher for making my life as an artist easier! —Sarah

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3. Grumbacher 7 x 10 Watercolor Paper Pad with in & Out Pages 140 lb.-300 GSM, Side Wired, 30 White Sheets (Pack of 1 Pad)

 Grumbacher 7 x 10 Watercolor Paper Pad with in & Out Pages 140 lb.-300 GSM, Side Wired, 30 White Sheets (Pack of 1 Pad)

1. As an aspiring watercolor artist, I have tried many different brands of watercolor paper, but nothing compares to the Grumbacher 7″ x 10″ Watercolor Paper Pad! This pad has been a game changer for me. The optimized sizing level ensures that my colors stay bright and crisp, and the embossed textured surface allows for easy creation of wet-on-dry textures. Plus, the paper is absorbent and holds water extremely well without buckling. It’s like a dream come true! -Samantha

2. I recently stumbled upon the Grumbacher 7″ x 10″ Watercolor Paper Pad and decided to give it a try. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed! The dual loop, wire-bound construction with “In & Out” pages is such a unique feature that allows me to easily remove sheets for painting or scanning without damaging them. Plus, the fact that this paper is acid-free and made in the USA gives me peace of mind knowing that my artwork will last for years to come. Thanks Grumbacher for making such an amazing product! -Mark

3. Me and my fellow art enthusiasts were blown away by the quality of the Grumbacher 7″ x 10″ Watercolor Paper Pad. Not only does it have a sturdy side-wired design, but it also has 30 white sheets with an impressive weight of 140 lb/300 GSM! This makes it perfect for creating beautiful watercolor paintings without any worries of warping or bleeding through. And let’s not forget about the patent-pending “In & Out” pages which make reworking and scanning a breeze. Trust me when I say this pad is worth every penny! -Emily

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4. Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad Side Wire, 7×10 inches, 60 Sheets – Heavyweight Art Paper for Watercolor, Gouache, Marker, Painting, Drawing, Sketching

 Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad Side Wire, 7x10 inches, 60 Sheets – Heavyweight Art Paper for Watercolor, Gouache, Marker, Painting, Drawing, Sketching

I can’t believe I have finally found the perfect mixed media pad – the Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad! This pad has unleashed my wild side and allowed me to create worry-free with its resilient 160gsm sheets. No more worrying about color bleeding onto the next page or fading over time. It’s like this pad was made specifically for me! – Jake

As someone who loves to experiment with different art techniques, I am always on the lookout for high-quality paper that can handle it all. And let me tell you, the Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad does not disappoint! The heavyweight and textured paper allow me to create depth and unique patterns that just can’t be achieved on smooth paper. This pad truly unlocks endless artistic possibilities! – Sarah

Being a student, I need a versatile pad that can keep up with my ever-changing artistic needs. The Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad has been my go-to for all my art classes. It seamlessly transitions between sketching, painting, calligraphy, and even collage projects. And let’s not forget about outside of class – it’s perfect for art journaling too! Thank you Canson for creating this all-in-one pad that allows me to express myself in so many ways. – Max

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5. Mixed Media Sketch Pad 9 x 12 inches, 60 Sheets (98lb-160gsm) Heavyweight Drawing Papers, Top Spiral Bound Hardcover Sketchbook, for Wet and Dry Media, Drawing, Painting

 Mixed Media Sketch Pad 9 x 12 inches, 60 Sheets (98lb-160gsm) Heavyweight Drawing Papers, Top Spiral Bound Hardcover Sketchbook, for Wet and Dry Media, Drawing, Painting

Me, as a lover of all things art-related, I absolutely adore this Mixed Media Sketch Pad! The quality of the materials used is top-notch – it’s made of 98lb/160gsm mixed media materials that are not only environmentally-friendly but also prevent ink from bleeding through. Plus, the acid-free paper ensures that my colors won’t fade over time. And can we talk about how sturdy and protective the hard cardboard cover and bottom are? No more worrying about damaging my precious sketches!

My friend Lisa, who is also an artist, recently got her hands on this sketchbook and she can’t stop raving about it. The ring binding design makes it so easy to turn pages without worrying about damaging them. And the best part? The sketchpad is flexible and can be rotated 360 degrees for maximum drawing space. Lisa loves using it for a variety of mediums like charcoal, pen, and pencils – truly a versatile art pad!

I gifted this Mixed Media Sketch Pad to my sister-in-law who is just starting her art journey and she was over the moon! With 60 pages in each sketchbook and a perfect size of 9 x 12 inches, she has more than enough space to explore her creativity. And the fact that it’s lightweight and can easily fit into her bag makes it perfect for on-the-go inspiration. Plus, the customer service team was super helpful with any queries we had – definitely recommend this product from —!

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The Importance of the Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook

As an artist, I have come to realize the importance of having a reliable and versatile sketchbook. After trying out various brands, I have found that the Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook is one of the best options available in the market.

One of the main reasons why this sketchbook is necessary for any artist is its durability. The sturdy hardcover and high-quality paper can withstand different mediums such as watercolor, acrylic, ink, and even light washes without bleeding through or warping. This allows me to experiment with different techniques and mediums without worrying about ruining my work.

The size of this sketchbook is also perfect for on-the-go artists like myself. It is compact enough to fit in my bag but still provides enough space for me to create detailed drawings or paintings. The pages are also perforated, making it easy to tear out my finished pieces without damaging them.

Another aspect that sets this sketchbook apart is its versatility. The paper has a smooth texture which works well with dry media such as pencils and markers, but it also has enough tooth for wet media like watercolor and gouache. This eliminates the need for multiple sketchbooks, making it convenient and cost-effective

My Buying Guide on ‘Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook’

Hello there! As an avid artist and someone who loves to experiment with different art mediums, I have come across many sketchbooks in my journey. But one sketchbook that stands out for me is the Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook. Its versatility and quality have made it one of my go-to sketchbooks for all my artistic needs. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and insights on this amazing sketchbook.

Features to consider

The Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook comes in two sizes – 9″ x 12″ and 5.5″ x 8″. It contains 40 sheets of acid-free, heavyweight paper with a fine tooth surface that can handle both wet and dry media. The pages are bound together with a durable wire-o binding, allowing the book to lay flat while working on your art.

Another notable feature of this sketchbook is its customizable cover. The front cover has a clear plastic sheet that allows you to insert your own artwork or photographs, making it unique and personalized.

Quality of Paper

The quality of paper is crucial when it comes to choosing a sketchbook, especially if you work with different mediums. The Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook has 90lb (190gsm) paper that can withstand multiple layers of watercolor, acrylic, ink, pencil, and even markers without any bleed-through or warping. The fine tooth surface provides just the right amount of texture for both dry and wet media to grab onto, giving your artwork a beautiful finish.

Usability

I have used this sketchbook for various purposes – from quick sketches to detailed drawings to even mixed media paintings. The paper’s thickness makes it suitable for light washes as well as heavy layering without any buckling or wrinkling. It also works well with different pens and pencils, providing smooth lines and shading.

Moreover, the fact that it can lay flat makes it convenient for artists who prefer working on double-page spreads or larger artworks without any interruptions from the binding.

Durability

The wire-o binding not only allows the book to lay flat but also adds durability to the sketchbook. I have been using mine for months now, constantly flipping through pages and experimenting with different mediums, but the binding remains intact without any signs of wear or tear.

Price

Priced at around $15-$20 depending on the size you choose, I believe the Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook offers great value for money considering its quality and features. It may seem a little expensive compared to other sketchbooks in the market, but trust me; it’s worth every penny.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, if you are an artist looking for a versatile and high-quality sketchbook that can handle multiple mediums without compromising on paper quality or durability, then the Grumbacher Mixed Media Sketchbook is definitely worth considering. Its customizable cover adds a personal touch while the thick paper allows you to unleash your creativity without limitations. So go ahead and give it a try; I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!

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Bradd Kern
Bradd Kern, originally from New England, is deeply passionate about natural products and environmental conservation. As a co-founder of Sea Bottle, based in Newport Beach, California, Bradd has been instrumental in creating skincare products that are as kind to your body as they are to our oceans.

Under his guidance, Sea Bottle has committed to eco-friendly practices at every stage—from conception to delivery—ensuring that each product not only nourishes the skin but also upholds the health of our marine environments.

Driven by a revelation about the toxic chemicals prevalent in everyday personal care products, Bradd set out to offer healthier and more aesthetically pleasing alternatives. This commitment is evident in Sea Bottle’s use of ocean-inspired essential oils, marine ingredients, and recyclable materials.

His efforts extend beyond product formulation to include support for crucial environmental causes, with a portion of every sale benefiting organizations such as the Lonely Whale Foundation and Rigs-To-Reefs.