--- product_id: 56753031 title: "illo Sketchbook 8’’ x 8’’ Square Hardcover Sketch Book, (112lb/180gsm) Heavyweight Paper, Ribbon Marker, Back Pocket, Lays Flat, Minimal Bleed, Vegan, for Artists & Beginners" brand: "illo sketchbook fair & square" price: "VT8733" currency: VUV in_stock: true reviews_count: 13 category: "Illo Sketchbook Fair & Square" url: https://www.desertcart.vu/products/56753031-illo-sketchbook-8-x-8-square-hardcover-sketch-book-112lb store_origin: VU region: Vanuatu --- # 112lb/180gsm heavyweight acid-free paper 8x8 inch perfect square format Lay-flat binding with back pocket illo Sketchbook 8’’ x 8’’ Square Hardcover Sketch Book, (112lb/180gsm) Heavyweight Paper, Ribbon Marker, Back Pocket, Lays Flat, Minimal Bleed, Vegan, for Artists & Beginners **Brand:** illo sketchbook fair & square **Price:** VT8733 **Availability:** ✅ In Stock ## Summary > 🎨 Elevate your craft with the sketchbook that professionals swear by! ## Quick Answers - **What is this?** illo Sketchbook 8’’ x 8’’ Square Hardcover Sketch Book, (112lb/180gsm) Heavyweight Paper, Ribbon Marker, Back Pocket, Lays Flat, Minimal Bleed, Vegan, for Artists & Beginners by illo sketchbook fair & square - **How much does it cost?** VT8733 with free shipping - **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship - **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.vu](https://www.desertcart.vu/products/56753031-illo-sketchbook-8-x-8-square-hardcover-sketch-book-112lb) ## Best For - illo sketchbook fair & square enthusiasts ## Why This Product - Trusted illo sketchbook fair & square brand quality - Free international shipping included - Worldwide delivery with tracking - 15-day hassle-free returns ## Key Features - • **Vegan Luxe Cover:** Soft-touch PU leather hardcover combines professional style with eco-conscious durability. - • **All-Medium Friendly:** Supports pencils, inks, pastels, markers & light watercolors—your versatile creative companion. - • **Social-Ready Square:** 8x8 format eliminates awkward cropping—perfect for sharing your art on Instagram and beyond. - • **Artist-Centric Design:** Ribbon marker, back pocket & lay-flat binding keep your workflow seamless and organized. - • **Precision Meets Durability:** 112lb heavyweight paper resists bleed-through & warping for flawless artwork every time. ## Overview The illo Sketchbook 8’’ x 8’’ is a premium, vegan-friendly hardcover sketchbook featuring 112lb (180gsm) heavyweight, acid-free paper designed to minimize bleed-through and warping. Its lay-flat binding, ribbon marker, and back pocket enhance usability, while the iconic square format is optimized for social media sharing. Trusted by both beginners and pros, it supports a wide range of mediums including pencils, inks, pastels, markers, and light watercolors, making it a versatile and durable choice for artists on the go. ## Description Introducing the illo Sketchbook 8’’ x 8’’ Square Hardcover, a high-quality sketchbook crafted for artists of all levels who seek professional-grade materials at an affordable price. With 112lb (180gsm) heavyweight paper, this sketchbook offers a smooth, durable surface designed to handle pencils, inks, pastels, markers, and even light watercolor washes without bleed-through or warping, providing a reliable foundation for your artwork. Built to last, our sturdy hardcover is made from vegan-friendly, soft-touch PU leather that keeps your creations protected while offering a professional, stylish look. This square sketchbook is perfect for sharing artwork on social media, eliminating awkward cropping with its ideal dimensions. Thoughtfully designed, illo Sketchbook features a convenient ribbon marker, lay-flat binding, and a back pocket for added functionality, so you can sketch on-the-go without compromising comfort or organization. As the original square sketchbook, illo has earned its place as a preferred choice for professional artists and beginners alike, providing premium quality without the high cost—just as its creator, an artist, intended. Whether you’re practicing, illustrating, or creating your next masterpiece, this versatile, artist-grade sketchbook is made to fit both your standards and budget, becoming an essential tool in your creative journey. Elevate your artistry with illo Sketchbook, where high quality meets affordability and sustainability in a product designed specifically with artists in mind. Review: Probably the best sketchbook i’ve ever bought - I’ve been drawing almost exclusively in sketchbooks for the better part of the last 8+ years, earlier this year i decided to try out this sketchbook and it has honestly been one of the best sketchbooks i’ve ever bought, the paper is extremely smooth without being slippery, the cover is durable with a nice thickness, the elastic holding it closed is extremely strong, i find it easy to travel with wether you’re taking it on a plane or just on a quick roadtrip, and the overall size of the sketchbook is extremely nice and i enjoy being able to draw on both sides of the same piece of paper without having marks, indents, and marker bleed, showing through. As for the materials you can use on it i find that pencils, colored pencils, ink, and paint/paint pens are extremely pleasing to uses on the paper but other materials also work extremely well. Overall an amazing sketchbook for any kind of artist i highly recommend!!! Review: best sketchbook around - This will be my third illo sketchbook since I started using them in 2019 and I absolutely love them. I have used both the 8x8 and the 10x10 and I found that both of them are good sizes but I think I prefer the 10x10! I believe the paper size itself is a pretty high gsm so the papers are thick and durable too. The texture of the paper is smooth and I really like drawing on it with mechanical pencils!! I've used plenty different mediums in these sketchbooks from ink, alcohol marker, to paint (and even face paint!) and there has never been bleed through other than the back side of the page that I was using (which i think is pretty typical) Both the books that are in the picture that I've used are super durable as I haven't been the kindest to them I normally just throw them in my bag and go. Also the one in the top left I've had since 2019 so six years and it's still in really good condition! This is the best sketchbook value for money that is out there you will absolutely not be changing my mind about that and I'll purchase again when I've finished my new one! ## Features - 【Superior Heavyweight Paper】 Crafted for artists who need durability and precision, Illo Sketchbook features 112lb (180gsm) heavyweight paper. This high-quality, acid-free paper resists bleed-through and warping, ideal for detailed sketches, illustrations, and professional-grade work. With a smooth surface designed for sharp lines and vibrant colors, our paper supports pencils, inks, pastels, and markers, allowing you to create artwork that stands out with clarity and detail. - 【Premium, Durable Construction】 Illo Sketchbook’s hardcover is crafted from soft-touch, vegan-friendly PU leather, offering both durability and a professional look. Built to withstand the rigors of everyday use, it protects your artwork while adding a sophisticated touch. This sturdy, high-quality cover provides a solid foundation for drawing on the go, ensuring your creations stay safe, whether you’re working in the studio, outdoors, or on the move. - 【Versatile for Multiple Art Mediums】 Designed to be an all-in-one artist’s tool, Illo Sketchbook handles a range of mediums effortlessly. Perfect for graphite pencils, colored pencils, inks, pens, pastels, and light watercolor washes, it’s suitable for both intricate linework and expressive strokes. Whether you’re sketching, illustrating, or practicing with different textures and techniques, this sketchbook’s adaptable surface supports your unique creative style. - 【Thoughtfully Designed for Artists】 Illo Sketchbook’s artist-friendly features include a ribbon marker, back pocket, and lay-flat binding, making it easy to use across projects. Constructed with vegan materials, this sketchbook combines functionality and eco-conscious design. Enjoy minimal bleed-through for clean, precise lines on each page, while the lay-flat binding allows you to work seamlessly across spreads for maximum creativity. - 【Preferred by Professionals, Loved by Beginners, and Priced for Artists】 Illo Sketchbook, the original square sketchbook, is a favorite among both seasoned artists and beginners. Created by an artist for artists, it balances premium quality with affordability, fitting easily into any artist’s budget. Its iconic 8x8 format makes it ideal for social sharing, bringing professional-grade materials to everyone, from students to established artists. ## Technical Specifications | Specification | Value | |---------------|-------| | ASIN | B075DPKD46 | | Best Sellers Rank | #9,957 in Arts, Crafts & Sewing ( See Top 100 in Arts, Crafts & Sewing ) #126 in Sketchbooks & Notebooks | | Brand | ILLO SKETCHBOOK FAIR & SQUARE | | Brand Name | ILLO SKETCHBOOK FAIR & SQUARE | | Color | Gray | | Customer Reviews | 4.8 out of 5 stars 6,637 Reviews | | Item Dimensions L x W | 8"L x 8"W | | Item Type Name | sketchbook | | Item Weight | 1.3 Pounds | | Manufacturer | illo sketchbook | | Material | Paper | | Material Type | Paper | | Paper Dimensions | 8 x 8 inches | | Paper Finish | Coated | | Paper Weight | 120 | | Product Dimensions | 8"L x 8"W | | Recommended Uses For Product | Sketching, Drawing, Watercolor | | Sheet Count | 56 | | UPC | 630239832594 | | Unit Count | 1 Count | | Warranty Description | no warranty | ## Product Details - **Brand:** ILLO SKETCHBOOK FAIR & SQUARE - **Color:** Gray - **Material:** Paper - **Paper Finish:** Coated - **Sheet Size:** 8*8inch ## Images ![illo Sketchbook 8’’ x 8’’ Square Hardcover Sketch Book, (112lb/180gsm) Heavyweight Paper, Ribbon Marker, Back Pocket, Lays Flat, Minimal Bleed, Vegan, for Artists & Beginners - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71vA46hoxqL.jpg) ## Available Options This product comes in different **Size** options. ## Questions & Answers **Q: Is the paper acid-free?** A: Our paper is not acid-free. **Q: What use is this sketchbook if the paper is not acid-free? Nobody has a use for a self-destructing product....** A: Thanks for your question. If you need acid-free paper there are a lot of other options out there. We created a premium sketchbook that is affordable. Our paper is not acid-free. Have a good one :) **Q: Does anyone know how the illo sketchbook compares to the Pentalic? I would want to put watercolor washes on it. I realize it is not 100% cotton rag.** A: Not familiar with Pentalic. This is the best sketchbook ive found for the price. I loved it so much, i bought 3. I dont know how picky you are about the watercolor but ive used heavy ink washes and it wont bleed through to the other side of the paper. Looked like it might warp with heavy water, no worries, let it dry and close the book, straightened right out. Like i said, im super happy with mine. I use ink in brush pens, ink washes, copic markers and acryllic paint. This book does it all. Very good quality mixed medium paper. Comparable to moleskine. Havnt used traditional watercolor but the ink is really harsh. I think it will do fine with watercolor. The book lays flat so you can paint across both pages. Plus I really like supporting small business. I follow these guys on instagram and there are comments all over their page. Very positive feedback. **Q: where is it made?** A: Made in China | Based in Detroit ## Customer Reviews ### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Probably the best sketchbook i’ve ever bought *by G***R on October 3, 2024* I’ve been drawing almost exclusively in sketchbooks for the better part of the last 8+ years, earlier this year i decided to try out this sketchbook and it has honestly been one of the best sketchbooks i’ve ever bought, the paper is extremely smooth without being slippery, the cover is durable with a nice thickness, the elastic holding it closed is extremely strong, i find it easy to travel with wether you’re taking it on a plane or just on a quick roadtrip, and the overall size of the sketchbook is extremely nice and i enjoy being able to draw on both sides of the same piece of paper without having marks, indents, and marker bleed, showing through. As for the materials you can use on it i find that pencils, colored pencils, ink, and paint/paint pens are extremely pleasing to uses on the paper but other materials also work extremely well. Overall an amazing sketchbook for any kind of artist i highly recommend!!! ### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ best sketchbook around *by H***Y on April 13, 2025* This will be my third illo sketchbook since I started using them in 2019 and I absolutely love them. I have used both the 8x8 and the 10x10 and I found that both of them are good sizes but I think I prefer the 10x10! I believe the paper size itself is a pretty high gsm so the papers are thick and durable too. The texture of the paper is smooth and I really like drawing on it with mechanical pencils!! I've used plenty different mediums in these sketchbooks from ink, alcohol marker, to paint (and even face paint!) and there has never been bleed through other than the back side of the page that I was using (which i think is pretty typical) Both the books that are in the picture that I've used are super durable as I haven't been the kindest to them I normally just throw them in my bag and go. Also the one in the top left I've had since 2019 so six years and it's still in really good condition! This is the best sketchbook value for money that is out there you will absolutely not be changing my mind about that and I'll purchase again when I've finished my new one! ### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Actually the BEST sketchbook *by B***S on November 14, 2024* Hi this will be an IN DEPTH review :D The sketchbook shown in photos is the 10x10 illo, its been worked in since september 2022, and finished since march of 2024. It was my 17th sketchbook, im currently on 24, im an artist of 10+ years, so id say im experienced. illo is BY FAR the best brand i’ve tried, and ive tried strathmore, moleskin, leuchtturm1917 and other off brands. now onto the medium reviews WATERCOLOR AND GOUACHE - there’s minimal warping which i love, you can also tape off sections for borders and peel off fine, colors do NOT soak into the paper because the paper is hard press, so you really need to let them dry; i havent tried REALLY thick gouache, so be cautious with thick paints. ALCOHOL AND WATER BASED MARKERS - yes, alcohol markers bleed (water based do not) but out of all the sketchbooks ive used, illo bleeds the least. markers do not smear. BALL POINT PEN - this was my least favorite medium for this sketchbook. in the photo, it looks like i colored in the shirt, i did not. that color is from the pen bleeding over time. i did put clear tape over it, so im not sure if that makes a difference , but i didnt want to get ink on other drawings. PENCIL AND INKS - all pencils b-h work well, they do get smudgy when you go further up the b pencils (probably b6), other than that, theres minimal smudging unless purposely done. very minimal or no graphite residue transfers onto other pages. FOR INKS, i mainly use microns, zebra pens, and sometimes dip pens with ink: i have also used other brands with no smearing, but always check before working on something final; theres no smearing AS LONG AS THERES TIME TO DRY, dont put ink down and immediately do a smear test. COLOR PENCIL - i dont use this medium often, but from what i have done, it works fine. theres not a lot of texture, again because of hard press paper, but thats okay for me. WARPING - very minimal, ive done moderate taping , and little glueing/pasting, BUT i think if it was done more frequently it would be okay OVERALL: literally the best sketchbook ive ever used, the only thing that gets me is sometimes i get tired of the smooth hard press paper, and depending on the size you get, it can be hard to travel with. they mainly advertise square sketchbooks, but if you go to their website, you could find other sizes and orientations as well as types of paper (water color, cold press, etc) yea i love illo🫶 ## Frequently Bought Together - illo Sketchbook 8’’ x 8’’ Square Hardcover Sketch Book, (112lb/180gsm) Heavyweight Paper, Ribbon Marker, Back Pocket, Lays Flat, Minimal Bleed, Vegan, for Artists & Beginners - SAKURA Pigma Micron Fineliner Pens - Archival Black Ink Pens - Pens for Writing, Drawing, or Bullet Journaling - Assorted Point Sizes - 6 Pack - Prismacolor Col-Erase Erasable Colored Pencils, Adult Coloring, 12 Pack --- ## Why Shop on Desertcart? - 🛒 **Trusted by 1.3+ Million Shoppers** — Serving international shoppers since 2016 - 🌍 **Shop Globally** — Access 737+ million products across 21 categories - 💰 **No Hidden Fees** — All customs, duties, and taxes included in the price - 🔄 **15-Day Free Returns** — Hassle-free returns (30 days for PRO members) - 🔒 **Secure Payments** — Trusted payment options with buyer protection - ⭐ **TrustPilot Rated 4.5/5** — Based on 8,000+ happy customer reviews **Shop now:** [https://www.desertcart.vu/products/56753031-illo-sketchbook-8-x-8-square-hardcover-sketch-book-112lb](https://www.desertcart.vu/products/56753031-illo-sketchbook-8-x-8-square-hardcover-sketch-book-112lb) --- *Product available on Desertcart Vanuatu* *Store origin: VU* *Last updated: 2026-06-05*