Blank Journal Notebook A5 192 Pages - Thick 100 GSM Sketch Book

In this review of the Blank Journal Notebook A5, the bottom line is simple: this is a strong, no-frills sketch and writing notebook for people who want a durable travel journal and thick, reliable paper. Its biggest selling point is the 100 GSM acid-free paper, which lets users sketch and write with minimal ghosting and confidence. The hardcover PU leather and elastic closure make it a practical choice for commuting creatives, students, or professionals who need a portable place for notes, sketches, and journaling.

Key Features

• Hardcover PU leather: a soft, gradient faux leather cover that feels comfortable in hand and keeps pages protected while traveling.
• 100 GSM thick paper: heavier acid-free pages that reduce bleed-through and are suitable for pencils, pens, and many markers.
• 192 unlined pages: 96 sheets of blank paper provide ample room for drawing, sketching, and freeform notes without ruled constraints.
• 180 degree lay-flat design: the binding opens fully so wide drawings and two-page spreads are not interrupted by a tight gutter.
• Travel-friendly features: elastic closure, pen holder, inner pocket and two ribbon bookmarks that keep tools and pages organized on the go.

Who It's For

This notebook suits artists and note-takers who prefer blank pages and need a portable, durable book for sketches, concept notes, or journaling. The thick 100 GSM sheets make it a good pick for pencil and many ink tools, while the lay-flat binding helps when working across a spread. The hardcover and elastic closure make it well suited for daily commuters and travelers who want their pages protected.

Those who need specialized watercolor paper, very heavy marker use, or preprinted grids and templates should look elsewhere, since the book is unlined and designed as a general-purpose sketchbook rather than a dedicated wet-media pad.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Thick 100 GSM acid-free paper that limits ghosting and bleed-through for most pens and pencils.
• Durable faux leather hardcover with elastic closure protects pages during travel.
• Practical extras like two ribbon bookmarks, inner pocket, and pen holder improve everyday usability.
• Lay-flat binding makes full use of the writing area for sketches and two-page spreads.

Cons

• Unlined format may be less useful for writers who prefer ruled guidance.
• While thick, the paper is not specialized for heavy wet media like watercolor.

Specifications

Size	5.8 in x 8.5 in (A5)
Pages	192 pages (96 sheets)
Paper weight	100 GSM, acid-free
Cover	Hardcover faux PU leather
Page layout	Blank / unlined
Binding	180 degree lay-flat design
Extras	Elastic closure, pen holder, inner pocket, 2 ribbon bookmarks

Our Verdict

The Blank Journal Notebook A5 is a practical, well-made sketchbook for everyday drawing, journaling, and note-taking. Its 100 GSM thick paper, sturdy cover, and travel-ready features offer good value for creatives and students who want reliable, blank pages without specialty paper costs. It is a sensible choice for mixed-media sketches and general use, though those needing heavy watercolor support should select a dedicated art pad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the paper suitable for markers?
The 100 GSM paper handles most pens, pencils, and many markers with limited ghosting, but heavy bleed-prone markers may still show through.

Does the notebook lay flat for drawing?
Yes, the binding opens to 180 degrees so you can work across full spreads without a raised gutter.

What travel features are included?
It has a durable faux leather hardcover, elastic closure, two ribbon bookmarks, a pen holder and an inner pocket for loose papers.