If you followed Ben Mounsey’s "Core Art Skills" Series, then you will know how important it is to have a Sketchbook. But why settle for something drab and dreary when you can use one that is as inspired as you are? In the following showcase you will find a collection of 20 Designer Sketchbooks that are made for creativity (much like the designers of the books themselves.)

Ben Mounsey’s Core Art Skills Series

Part 1 – Welcome to the Course

Part 2 – The Sketchbook

Part 3 – Life and Figure Drawing

Part 4 – Working in Traditional 3D

Part 5 – Traditional Media Techniques

Part 6 – Tutorial: Bringing It All Together

BINGO!

Break your artist block with an impromptu game of Bingo. Did you know that these sketchbooks are so creative that Martha Stewart herself has featured them?!

The Ultimate Sketchbook

What more could a designer possibly want? The cutting matt cover is exactly what I’ve always needed, no more shredding the backboard of my sketchbook. This really is the ultimate sketchbook!

Chalkboard Book

When inspiration hits so fast that you don’t even have time to open your book… just watch out for chalk dust.

Chit-Chat

A pocket Moleskine is perfect for collecting overheard conversations and sneaky character sketches. With this design you’ll always remember the gossip and chit-chat hidden inside.

Grass Journal

This Journal covered in plastic grass reminds me of lazy summer afternoons in the park, and not only because the grass can be just as itchy. Sometimes the best way to find inspiration is to take a picnic rug to a nice sunny spot, throw your shoes off and relax. The "No Computer Zone" will do you a world of good.

Grey Numbers Notebook

A notebook that you can store a pencil in is great for people like myself, who continually lose pens and pencil. Just try not to lose the notebook too.

Mini Leather Journal Book

This book is small and stylish with a neat wrap-around cover that protects the pages inside. Small enough to fit in your backpack but sturdy enough to survive being thrown around, I would definitely pack this book if I was hiking.

Nota Buttone

A clutch style cover is a stylish way to carry around your sketchbook. The bright color of this design will inspire you to put pencil to paper, even on the most grey and rainy days.

The Gatekeeper Journal Keychain

This is a really tiny book that you can attach to your keys. While you may not be able to sketch comfortable sized images in this book, you can jot down overheard conversations or your personal ideas and thoughts. This book is even sneakier than the pocket Moleskine, with the added bonus of always being with you (or your keys at least).

Raven – Gocco Printed Pocket Moleskine

Gocco is a form of printing similar to screen printing. If you don’t have a Print Gocco at home, you can cut out a stencil to print your own personalized journal. I love the way that this Raven design is finished off with a ribbon that ties the book closed and compliments the image.

Black Leather Journal with Silver Lock and Key

A Journal with a lock reminds me of secret diaries. If you have ideas and sketches you don’t want to share with anyone else, a lockable journal is great. Alternately, feel free to sketch as messy as you like knowing that nobody will ever see.

Knitted Moleskine Cover

Moleskine Covers may not be a journal design, but it’s fairly easy to find Moleskines these days. I have a few scattered about my office that could use a makeover with a cozy cover like these. The best part is that when you’re done with the Moleskine you can put it into storage and cover a new one.