Drawing Pads

Discover a whole new world of Drawing Pads with ArtStore Online.

At ArtStore Online, we seek to bring you the best Drawing Pad brands available and have a wide range of art supplies from trusted and respected brands from around the world. Discover our Drawing Tool brands including Art Spectrum, Canson, Fabriano, The Paper House and more!          

Browse through our extensive range of Drawing Pads. Whether you are an avid illustrator, designer or a complete beginner, equip yourself with a drawing pad and allow your creativity to flourish. From simple sketches and doodles to elaborate masterpieces, we will strive to help you with whatever you're after!

What is the best size of drawing pad?

The best size of a drawing pad depends on factors such as your workspace, portability needs, drawing style, mediums used, and budget. Larger pads offer more space for detailed drawings and experimentation but may be less portable, while smaller pads are convenient for on-the-go sketching. Consider the scale of your artwork, available surface area, and preferred mediums when choosing the size that best suits your artistic needs and preferences. Experimenting with different sizes can help you find the optimal balance between workspace requirements and artistic expression.

What's the difference between drawing pads and mixed media pads?

Drawing pads and mixed media pads are both types of drawing surfaces, but they differ in their intended use and paper characteristics:

Drawing Pads

• Drawing pads are designed specifically for dry media such as graphite and coloured pencils, charcoal, pastels, and markers.
• The paper in drawing pads is typically lighter in weight and has a texture that is suitable for sketching, doodling, and preliminary drawing work.
• Drawing pads may have a toothy surface that provides enough grip for dry media to adhere to the paper without smudging excessively.
• These pads are ideal for quick sketches, gesture drawings, and exploring ideas before committing to a final artwork.

Mixed Media Pads

• Mixed media pads are versatile and designed to accommodate a variety of mediums, including both dry and wet media such as watercolour, acrylic, ink, markers, pencils, and pastels.
• The paper in mixed media pads is heavier in weight and has a smoother surface compared to drawing pads, allowing it to handle wet media without buckling or warping excessively.
• Mixed media pads may feature a blend of paper types, such as a combination of hot-pressed and cold-pressed sheets, to provide options for different techniques and effects.
• These pads are suitable for artists who work across multiple mediums or enjoy experimenting with various techniques in their artwork.

In summary, drawing pads are tailored for dry media and offer lighter-weight paper with a texture suitable for sketching, while mixed media pads are more versatile and accommodate both dry and wet media with heavier-weight paper and a smoother surface. The choice between the two depends on your preferred mediums and artistic needs.

What’s the best drawing pad for travelling?

When selecting a drawing pad for travel, prioritise compactness, durability, and versatility. Look for a pad with sturdy construction and high-quality paper suitable for your preferred mediums. Choose a size that fits easily in your luggage or travel bag, and consider features like spiral bindings or perforated edges for convenient use on the go. Balancing these factors ensures you have a reliable and portable drawing companion for your artistic endeavours while travelling.

Can you use both sides of your drawing pad paper?

Yes, you can typically use both sides of your drawing pad paper. However, whether it's practical to do so depends on factors such as the weight and texture of the paper, as well as the mediums you're using. Lighter-weight papers may experience bleed-through or show-through when using wet media, which can limit the usability of the reverse side. Additionally, rough or textured papers may not provide a smooth surface for detailed work on both sides. Nevertheless, for dry media or lighter applications, using both sides of the paper can effectively double the lifespan of your drawing pad. It's essential to test the paper's suitability for your intended use before relying on both sides extensively.

What are the best ways to store your drawing pad?

To store your drawing pad effectively, keep it flat on a stable surface away from moisture, humidity, and direct sunlight to prevent warping and damage to the paper. Consider using a protective cover or case to shield the pad from dust and accidental harm, and store it vertically if space is limited, ensuring proper support along the entire length. Avoid storing in extreme temperatures or fluctuating conditions, and label pads for easy identification if you have multiple or different types. These practices will help preserve your artwork and maintain the integrity of your drawing pad over time.