A Brief History of Sketchbooks

by GJ Gillespie, artist and founder of Leda Art Supply

SKETCHBOOKS have been used by artists for centuries to capture their ideas, record their observations, and develop their skills. From ancient Egyptian papyrus scrolls to the modern-day sketchbooks used by artists today, the format and function of these portable art studios has evolved over time. In this blog post, we'll trace the evolution of sketchbooks through history and explore some of the advances that have shaped their development.

The earliest known examples of sketchbooks date back to the ancient Egyptians, who used papyrus scrolls to record their observations of daily life and the natural world around them. These scrolls, which were made from strips of papyrus woven together, were often decorated with drawings and hieroglyphics. They were portable, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them ideal for use in the field.


In medieval Europe, monks used illuminated manuscripts as a way to record their observations and ideas. These early sketchbooks were often elaborately decorated with gold leaf and intricate designs, and were used not only for artistic purposes, but also for documenting religious texts and other important writings.

The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in the classical arts, and with it came a new emphasis on sketching as a fundamental tool for artists. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo used sketchbooks to study the human form, experiment with composition, and record their observations of the world around them. These sketchbooks were more like notebooks, with pages that could be turned and reorganized, making them easier to use than the scrolls of the past.

In the 19th century, advances in printing technology made it possible to produce inexpensive paper and books on a mass scale. This led to a proliferation of sketchbooks, which became more widely available and affordable than ever before. Artists like Vincent van Gogh and Edgar Degas used sketchbooks to record their impressions of the world around them, capturing fleeting moments in time with quick, gestural strokes.

Today, sketchbooks are used by artists of all levels and backgrounds, from students to professionals. Advances in digital technology have made it possible to create virtual sketchbooks on tablets and computers, allowing artists to work on-the-go without the need for traditional materials. Portable art studios like the Leda Art Supply sketchbook have become popular among artists, offering a compact and convenient way to sketch and draw wherever inspiration strikes.

In the future, it's likely that we'll see even more advances in the world of sketchbooks. As digital technology continues to evolve, we may see new tools and platforms emerge that allow artists to collaborate, share, and create in new ways. But no matter what the future holds, sketchbooks will always remain an essential tool for artists, providing a portable and versatile way to capture their ideas, record their observations, and develop their skills.

Sketchbooks have played a significant role in the development of art throughout history and continue to inspire artists today. Whether used for capturing fleeting moments, recording observations, or developing skills, sketchbooks remain an essential tool for artists of all backgrounds and levels.

As technology continues to evolve, it's clear that sketchbooks will continue to adapt and take on new forms, but their fundamental purpose will always be to serve as a space for artists to explore, experiment, and create.