Review on Derwent Sketch Drawing Wirebound 2301607 by Lisa Chandler

I thought it would be a versatile all in one sketchbook for quick watercolor sketches. I bought it specifically based on the description stating "Acid-free thick white paper is ideal for sketching and drafting." Unfortunately, it curls and warps like crazy when wet with watercolor and starts to unroll when mixed with treated more than a few coats of watercolor. Paper only works if you limit yourself to the drybrush watercolor technique. Works easily with watercolor pencils or ink pens provided you apply dry to the surface first and then just add some water from a water brush for blending. I also used black ink and black marker and it bled out completely so forget to use the other side of the paper afterwards. I could also see the watercolor image through the back of the paper, so I wouldn't call it "thick" paper. I realize this is not watercolor paper but the description says it is thick and can handle paint. I was expecting something more reliable and versatile and it definitely isn't. With a layer of plaster on top it could probably be used with acrylics but expect it to warp a lot as the plaster dries and adding plaster is a hassle and extra expense if you don't have it. I will mainly be using this for scrap paper as dry materials like pencil and charcoal sketches are not my choice. Luckily this sketchbook wasn't super expensive when I bought it here for $16, but writing this review I noticed that the price had gone up over $10. I will definitely never buy again as it is expensive for scrap paper and not for me to draw with. err in assuming that it can be used.