How to Make Your Own Watercolor Sketchbook by Hand — Bookbinding Made Simple is Here
Have you ever bought a watercolor sketchbook and thought... this isn't quite right?
Maybe the paper is too thin. The size is off. And for what you paid, it should have been perfect.
Here's the thing, it doesn't have to be that way.
Making your own watercolor sketchbook is easier than you think, more affordable than you'd expect, and honestly? One of the most satisfying creative skills you can add to your practice.
That's exactly why I created Bookbinding Made Simple — a new mini-course that teaches you how to hand-bind your own watercolor sketchbooks from scratch, in five different styles.
WHY MAKE YOUR OWN WATERCOLOR SKETCHBOOK?
I was first introduced to bookbinding by my daughter. She made me a beautiful handmade watercolor sketchbook for Christmas years ago and I was completely hooked. Since then I've studied techniques, taken an in-person bookbinding workshop in Scotland, and have been making my own custom sketchbooks ever since.
Here's what changes when you start making your own:
The paper is exactly right. You choose the weight, the texture, the brand. No more compromising on someone else's idea of what a watercolor sketchbook should be.
The size is yours. Pocket journal for travel sketching. Large landscape format for panoramic paintings. Oversized statement book for your best work. You decide.
The cost is a fraction of buying. A quality watercolor sketchbook can run $30, $40, $50 or more — and you get one. When you make your own, the materials cost a fraction of that. One of my students made three chunky sketchbooks in a single day. Three sketchbooks for the cost of supplies.
You paint more freely. This is the shift my students talk about most. When a sketchbook costs almost nothing to make, you stop being precious about the pages. You just paint.
WHAT'S INSIDE BOOKBINDING MADE SIMPLE
The course covers five bookbinding techniques plus two bonus lessons — over four hours of step-by-step video instruction with full supply lists for every technique.
Here's what you'll learn:
Concertina Folded Sketchbook
A fan-fold style perfect for panoramic paintings and travel sketching. This one also comes with a full PDF guide so you can refer back any time.
Pearl Stitch Sketchbook
A classic sewn binding with a beautiful detailed spine. Satisfying to make and stunning to look at.
Chain Link Sketchbook
The one everyone asks about when they see it on a shelf. A striking linked stitch that makes every sketchbook feel like a collector's piece.
Chunky Glued Sketchbook
A sturdy no-sew option perfect for thicker watercolor paper. One of my personal favourites — the pages lay completely flat when you open it, which makes painting so much easier.
Kettle Stitch Sketchbook ✨ Brand new
A traditional hand-sewn binding used by bookbinders for centuries. Strong, professional, and deeply satisfying to make. Like the chunky glued book, the pages lay flat — which I love. This lesson has never been shared anywhere before.
Bonus: Leather or Canvas Journal ✨ Brand new
Take your bookbinding to the next level with a beautiful leather or canvas cover journal. I was so excited when I found an old acrylic painting to use as a cover for this one — you'll love the possibilities. Also never shared before.
Bonus: Paint a Mountain Scene With Me
Settle in with your brand new handmade sketchbook and paint alongside me. The perfect way to christen your first handmade book.
WHAT STUDENTS ARE SAYING
These techniques were first shared inside my Artist Lounge membership — and the response was everything.
"I'm obsessed! I made 3 in one day — so fun and easy, can't wait to use them."
"I love the chain stitch! I made a small purse-sized journal with drawing paper and can't wait to start using it."
"They're so cost effective — I've made 3 chunky sketchbooks and am already planning more!"
"The process was easier than I expected — and I know I'll try a larger one at some point."
That's what happens when bookbinding clicks. You don't just make one sketchbook. You keep making them — in different sizes, different styles, for yourself and as gifts — because it's fun and because you can.
WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?
Bookbinding Made Simple is for watercolor artists who already paint and want to go deeper into their creative practice. You don't need any prior bookbinding experience — if you can already paint, you can absolutely do this.
This is for you if:
You've always been curious about making your own sketchbooks
You're tired of buying sketchbooks that aren't quite right for watercolor
You want a handmade sketchbook built exactly for the way you paint
You want to add a beautiful new skill to your creative life
A note for Artist Lounge members: The Concertina, Pearl Stitch, Chain Link, and Chunky Glued lessons are replays from past Lounge themes and are already in your member library. The Kettle Stitch and the Leather or Canvas Journal are brand new and exclusive to this course. Check your library before purchasing so you don't pay twice for something you already have.
THE LAUNCH PRICE
Bookbinding Made Simple is available right now at the special launch price of $47 — that's $20 off the regular price of $67.
The launch price is available until July 27th. After that the price goes up.
Or read the full details on the course page here.
READY TO MAKE YOUR FIRST HANDMADE SKETCHBOOK?
There is something that shifts when you paint in a sketchbook you made yourself. The paper is exactly right. The size is yours. And every time you open it, you remember that you built this.
Come make your first handmade sketchbook with me. 🪡
One stitch at a time,
Nicki
If you’re curious about The Artist Lounge, click here to learn more about what are creating together!
