Resources

I have used many different pens throughout the years, and many different sketchbooks. But these days I have honed these resources down to a few very simple and inexpensive tools.

Let us start with the sketchbook - I used to use a Moleskine Japanese Accordion Sketchbook. But really any sketchbook would do. But the concertina format is a great sketchbook to use for creating a nature journey. I love the way they unfold just as my walks unfold revealing nature as I go. But now, after 21 journals of this type and ten years I have changed to an A6 Seawhite Travel Journal. This allows me to write quick notes and sketches and I couple this with one of my own mini Chapbook journals.

Seawhite of Brighton travellers notebook and my own mini nature journal.

Whilst fineliners are great to use and easy to obtain, the draw back is that when they run out it is just more plastic in the bin! I have used (and still use) a variety of fountain pens. At the moment my favourite pen is a Platinum 3776 Century extra fine nib. You will also need to use Platinum Carbon Ink which is waterproof and designed for fountain pens.

Here is a short description: The Platinum #3776 Century range features the 'Slip and Seal' airtight screw-on cap, an innovative system which uses an inner plastic seal with a strong spring. The primary benefit of this system is improved storage ability - the ink will not dry out even if left for over a year. It also allows use of Platinum Carbon and Pigment inks. An added benefit is improved resistance to leaks due to pressure changes. They are not cheap but are fantastic to draw with and will last for a very long time!

Case containing a small selection of pens and my notebook.

I now have a case with some selected materials contained within - keeping them safe, dry and together. This goes in a rucksack or other bag - mine is a cheap khaki bag which also has my magnifying glass, a few flower and bird ID books and a flower press.

Platinum Carbon 3776 Century fountain pen.

As far as paints and brushes go, the main thing is that have them with you. My favourite paints, though or Roman Szmal paints contained within one of their tins. The story behind these paints is really fascinating - you can find more information on Jackson’s Art website here. I use simple and cheap brushes - usually Pental water brushes.

Here is a snapshot of the story: Roman Szmal is the man behind the highly revered Roman Szmal Aquarius Watercolour range. Based in Kraków, Poland, Roman started his company after working as a distributor for art materials manufacturer Kremer Pigments, where he was introduced to the industry and became familiar with the raw materials used. He had also previously studied chemistry and geology at college, and this gave him the confidence to begin experimenting with paint formulations until he had a basic range to offer.

Roman Szmal paints and water brush.

You can get most materials online of course and here are a few chosen suppliers that I regularly use as well as a fantastic little pen and art shop in Hexham, if you prefer a physical shop - which I do! The blank journals have been created by a partnership I have with a local printer - Robson Print - and I buy them in bulk. I am happy to supply these on request - usually in packs of 10 - they are also available from Pentax.