10 Best Watercolor Books 2025 in the United States

The U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Book set is a solid choice for artists of various skill levels, whether you're a beginner or more experienced. With its compact size of 5.5" x 8.5" and included two-pack, this product is convenient for travel and on-the-go sketching. Each book is filled with 76 sheets of heavyweight 110 lb (230 GSM) paper, which is thick enough to handle watercolors without bleed-through, making it suitable for both wet and dry media.

One standout feature is the cold-pressed textured surface that enhances the blending of colors and helps achieve clean lines. The acid-free nature of the paper also ensures that your artwork won’t fade over time, which is a great advantage for preserving your pieces. The linen-bound hardcover design adds durability, making these books resistant to daily wear and tear, while the elastic band closure keeps your projects protected from environmental factors.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The size might be limiting for those who prefer larger canvases to work on, especially for expansive watercolor techniques. While the textured finish is beneficial, some artists might find it less suitable for precision work that requires a smoother surface. Additionally, being a mixed media book, it may not excel in all types of media, so it's best suited for watercolor and sketching rather than heavy applications like oils or pastels.

The Strathmore Watercolor Art Journal is a versatile option for artists who work with watercolor, gouache, and acrylic paints. It features 48 sheets of intermediate grade watercolor paper, which is known for its strong surface and ability to handle fine and even washes, as well as lifting and scraping applications. This makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and more advanced artists who want to practice or create finished pieces.

The natural white color and traditional cold press surface of the paper provide a pleasant painting experience, enhancing the vibrancy and texture of the artwork. The journal is manufactured in the United States, ensuring good quality control and materials. It has dimensions of 8.5 x 11 inches, making it a convenient size for both studio and on-the-go use.

The journal's weight of 12 ounces makes it lightweight, but it might not be as durable for frequent travel or rough handling. Artists who prioritize a strong, versatile paper surface in a portable format will likely find this journal highly beneficial.

The Arches Watercolor Travel Journal is a high-quality product designed for watercolor painting and other mediums like gouache, ink, and acrylic. It contains 15 sheets of 140 lb cold press 100% cotton paper, known for its durability and resistance to scratching and erasing. The unique cylinder mold process ensures that the cotton fibers are evenly distributed, making the paper very strong and suitable for wet techniques.

This journal is especially convenient for artists who enjoy plein air painting, thanks to its sturdy backboard that provides a stable surface for on-the-go creativity. Additionally, the exclusive gelatin sizing 'to the core' feature enhances color luster and transparency, making blending and layering easier. The journal's format and layout are practical, with a 6x10-inch size that is easy to carry.

However, it may not be suitable for beginners due to its high-quality materials and professional-grade specifications. Despite its strengths, the limited number of sheets (15) could be a drawback for those who paint frequently and might need to replace the journal often. This watercolor travel journal is best suited for experienced artists looking for premium paper quality and reliable performance.