Artists: Why You Need a Black Paper Sketchbook

Black paper sketchbooks have become increasingly popular among artists for their unique ability to make colors pop and create dramatic effects. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic beginner, incorporating a black paper sketchbook into your artistic practice can open up new creative possibilities and elevate your artwork.

In this post we’ll explore the benefits of using a black paper sketchbook, discuss different art techniques and media that work well on black paper, and provide some example artwork to inspire you.

* Please note, some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support and it helps me create more great content for you to enjoy!

The Benefits of a Black Paper Sketchbook

Enhanced Contrast and Vibrancy

One of the most compelling reasons to use a black paper sketchbook is the enhanced contrast it provides. Colors appear more vibrant and stand out dramatically against the dark background. This can make your artwork more striking and eye-catching. For example, a bright yellow sunflower drawn on black paper will look much more vivid and lively compared to one on white paper.

black paper sketchbook sunflower mandala

Product Suggestion: Canson XL Series Drawing Paper, Black, Wirebound Pad, 11×14 inches.

Unique Artistic Effects

A black paper sketchbook allows artists to experiment with unique artistic effects that are difficult to achieve on white paper. For instance, white gel pens or metallic markers create a striking contrast and can be used to draw intricate details that stand out. These effects are particularly stunning in artworks like night-time scenes or galaxy-inspired drawings.

Encourages Experimentation

Working on black paper encourages experimentation with different media and techniques. It pushes artists out of their comfort zone and invites them to think differently about light and shadow. Techniques like using paint (acrylic or gouache) or layering colored pencils to build up vibrant colors can lead to new discoveries and skills.

Techniques and Media for Black Paper

Metallic and White Gel Pens

Using metallic and white gel pens on black paper can produce stunning, high-contrast artworks. These pens are ideal for creating intricate designs, mandalas, or lettering. The reflective quality of metallic inks adds a shimmering effect that is particularly captivating.

metallic paint pen mandala on black paper sketchbook

Colored Pencils

Colored pencils, especially high-quality, opaque ones, work beautifully on black paper. The dark background makes the colors appear more saturated, allowing for rich, vibrant artwork. Layering and blending colors can create depth and dimension that stand out vividly.

Chalk and Pastels

Soft pastels and chalk are excellent for creating soft, dreamy effects on black paper. The dusty texture of these media lends itself well to blending and creating smooth gradients. They are perfect for landscapes, abstracts, or any artwork that benefits from a soft, ethereal quality.

Acrylic and Gouache Paints

Acrylic and gouache paints are opaque and cover black paper well, allowing for bright, solid colors. They can be used for a variety of techniques, from detailed illustrations to abstract pieces. These paints are ideal for artists who enjoy working with bold, vibrant colors and want to create striking, high-contrast artwork.

gel pen floral illustration on black paper

Conclusion

Incorporating a black paper sketchbook into your artistic practice can significantly enhance your creative process. The vibrant contrast, unique effects, and opportunities for experimentation make it a valuable tool for any artist. Whether you’re using metallic pens, gel pens, colored pencils, pastels, or paints, black paper can elevate your artwork to new heights. Explore the possibilities and add a new dimension to your creativity with a black paper sketchbook!

Cheers,

Zentangle Inspired Artwork

zentangle face art drawing collage magazine woman

~ Julie ~ 1 Comment

Hi guys! Today I am sharing with you 6 different zentangle inspired drawings I have done over the past few years.

Zentangle is basically the practice of creating art from intricate doodle-like patterns. The repetitive motion is said to help with anxiety and focus. The practice of Zentangle is similar to creating mandalas for therapeutic reasons.

Most of these art pieces combine elements of doodle art drawing with collage from women’s magazines. They were all done in my sketchbook using Sharpie markers.

This could be a fun project for adults or kids in art class!

Several of these designs are available as prints and on other products in my Redbubble store and other shops.

This first one was inspired by Easter and the flowers of Spring.

It is also available as a greeting card from my Zazzle store.

The Golden Egg Easter Greeting Card by JulieErinDesigns

For this piece, I pasted some gorgeous butterfly photographs in my sketchbook and then doodled around them.

butterfly zentangle drawing art doodle collage butterflies

This one combines a lot of different Zentangle inspired patterns but does not have any collage elements. This one is not available as a print.

tangled all the way around zentangle art

The next one incorporates different lips cut out of a women’s magazine, and is one of my favourites!

Another spring time inspired piece including bright flowers collaged into the design.

This one is also available on products in my Zazzle store:

Flower Tangle iPad Cover by JulieErinDesigns

Thank you for checking out these six zentangle inspired designs! I hope you like them and feel free to leave your comments below.

Cheers,

Zentangle Inspired ACEO Art Cards

~ Julie ~ Leave a comment

My latest creative venture involves making these miniature Zentangle inspired ACEO cards. Above is the first one I created which incorporates a woman’s face cut out from a magazine and collaged onto the paper.

What are ACEO Art Cards?

ACEO stands for Art Cards, Editions and Originals.

ACEO’s are miniature artworks the size of baseball cards, 2.5 x 3.5 inches in size. They are a spin off of ATC’s or Artist Trading Cards. ACEO’s are highly collectible (and affordable), and come in a variety of styles. You can often find them for sale on eBay and other websites.

Zentangle Inspired ACEO Art Cards:

Below is my latest piece, drawn with my new Faber Castel Pitt artist pens combined with collage elements from women’s magazines.

I am trying to work a little bit of shading to make them really pop!

flip flop doodle art zentangle inspired aceo cards

If you would like to see more of my artwork please visit my website, or check out my store! You can purchase my artwork on a variety of things from art prints to t-shirts and bags!

Have a great day,