Sketchnote Gift Guide

Christmas is nearly here. So what better time to get the sketchnoter in your life a gift that shows you know them. Below are a few items that I would bet any sketchnoter would like to receive. Starting with a couple of sketchnoting kits for the new and experienced sketchnoter, then moving on to some pens, paper, books, and digital gifts.

New sketchnoters kit

If you know someone who has just started sketchnoting (or would like to start) then this is a perfect small set with everything they need to start. A guidebook, a good pen and a notebook. Personally, I’d recommend the Sketchnote workbook.

• Sketchnote handbook or Sketchnote Workbook
• Paper mate flair
• AmazonBasics notebook or Leuchttrum 1917

Experienced sketchnoter kit

If you know someone who has been sketchnoting for a while and they are looking for a few superior tools, then this is the set for them. Warning: They may already have their own preferred pens, and so these suggestions may not be the best for everyone.

• Sigma Microns set
• Tombow brush pens
• Sketchnote Ideabook

Pens and Paper

Pens

• Sigma Microns set: these are great drawing pens.
• Twsbi Eco: a fun piston fountain pen.
• Tombow brush pens
• Pentel pocket Brush Pen
• Neuland Markers: – refillable pens that are great for both graphic recording and sketchnoting.
• Travel watercolour set: not pens but still fun

Notebooks

• Sketchnote Ideabook
• Leuchttrum 1917
• Rhodia Webnotebook
• Art Creation notebook: a great small notebook for urban sketching.

Something to carry all your things in.

• NockCo cases: the lanier pouch looks like a great sketchnote carrying kit. I have the burton limited edition which has a very similar design and it’s my daily sketchnote cary.
• The Art Toolkit: Originally designed for urban sketching but still useful for sketchnoting.

Books and inspiration

• Sketchnote handbook
• Sketchnote Workbook
• Presto sketching

More great books that aren’t sketchnoting specific.

• The Visual MBA
• Keep Going by Austin Kleon (In fact, all of his books)
• Modern Cartooning
• Hand-lettering Journey by Heather Martinez
• Hand Lettering Ledger by Mary Kate McDevitt
• How to Draw without Talent by Danny Gregory

Technology

I made a list of great digital tools for sketchnoting that are worth checking out, but many are expensive. There are, however, some more affordable options.

• An Apple gift card: to get a copy of procreate.
• Paperlike screen protector: for a more paper like drawing experience. Warning: It may make the screen show some rainbowing effects.
• Elevation lab DraftTable kit a drafting table for the iPad.
• Twelve South Compass: A flexible iPad stand for drawing, watching and more.

Anything missing?

Can you see something missing from my list? Leave a comment with your suggestion.