If you’ve ever tried to combine your love of sketching with your time outdoors, you’ve probably stumbled across John Muir Laws at some point. I picked up The Laws Sketchbook for Nature Journaling a few months ago as part of my effort to take nature journaling more seriously—and I’ve used it enough now to give you an honest, first-hand review.
This isn’t just a blank notebook. It’s a thoughtfully designed field sketchbook created by a naturalist who really understands what it means to draw outside, observe deeply, and learn from the world around you. Whether you're just starting out or already have a regular nature journaling practice, this sketchbook has a lot to offer.
If you're new to the practice, you might want to start with my nature journaling basics guide, which covers the mindset and materials I recommend. But if you're here specifically wondering whether this sketchbook is worth adding to your bag—let’s get into it.
Key Points
- The sewn binding and lay-flat design make it ideal for drawing in the field, even on uneven ground or in your lap.
- Includes mini tutorials and references from John Muir Laws to help with tricky drawing subjects (like bird beaks or leaf shapes).
- The paper holds up well to pen, pencil, and light watercolor washes without bleeding or feathering.
First Impressions of The Laws Sketchbook for Nature Journaling
When I first got my hands on The Laws Sketchbook for Nature Journaling, I noticed two things right away: it’s durable, and it feels intentional. The sturdy covers and elastic closure are clearly designed with real-world use in mind. This isn’t a dainty studio sketchbook—it’s meant to get thrown into your backpack and survive actual adventures.
Inside, there are 64 pages of 148g white paper, plus 16 pages of 200g light brown paper. Both are excellent for pen, pencil, and light washes. The paper has enough tooth to grip graphite and enough weight to avoid buckling from water.
It also includes 16 pages of reference material on topics like scientific measurement, observation tips, the Beaufort Wind Scale, and sketching techniques. There's even a DIY table of contents you fill in as you go. It's a sketchbook that helps you stay organized and intentional.
The removable dust jacket reveals a white canvas-textured cover you can personalize with your own artwork, which I think is a fun and personal touch.
Why This Sketchbook Stands Out for Nature Journalers
There are a lot of sketchbooks out there, but not many are made specifically for nature journaling. This one is.
Field-tested durability
The outer covers are hard and water-resistant. I’ve taken mine on a beach hike, a foggy morning walk, and a sunny mountaintop picnic. The elastic band keeps it closed so pages don’t get bent, and the lay-flat binding makes it easy to draw across both pages.
Designed by a naturalist for naturalists
John Muir Laws isn’t just a good illustrator—he’s one of the leading educators in the nature journaling world. I’ve learned a lot from his videos and books, so having a sketchbook that includes his personal insights and drawing tools built-in feels like having a pocket mentor.
If you're looking to deepen your own nature journaling practice, I also recommend browsing through my nature journaling prompts or exploring the ideas in creative nature journaling excursions.
It's not just blank pages
This book walks a nice line between being a traditional sketchbook and a lightweight field guide. I use the reference illustrations all the time—especially when I forget how to quickly sketch tree branch angles or bird proportions. The inclusion of scientific tools, like estimation guides and measurement tricks, also makes it feel like a true companion for thoughtful fieldwork.
How I Use It in My Practice
For me, the real test of any sketchbook is whether I keep reaching for it. And I do.
I keep this book in my nature journaling bag along with my travel watercolor kit, a mechanical pencil, and a Micron pen. I don’t use it every day, but when I’m doing something intentional like a nature journaling excursion, it’s the one I bring.
I’ve used it in national parks, local trails, even just out on my porch. It’s light enough to carry anywhere and tough enough to handle being tossed around. And when I flip back through the pages, the experience feels cohesive—like a book I’ll actually keep and revisit, not just another disposable sketchpad.
Who I Recommend It For
This sketchbook is a great fit if:
- You’re serious (or getting serious) about nature journaling and want a reliable field sketchbook.
- You like the idea of having drawing tips and nature references alongside your blank pages.
- You’re a fan of John Muir Laws or want a physical extension of his teaching style.
If you’re completely new to the idea of sketching in nature, my guide for adults getting into nature journaling might be a helpful place to start.
And if you're looking to take your practice deeper with other activities, check out international nature journaling week or browse some real nature journaling examples to see how others use this kind of book in the wild.
Is The Laws Sketchbook good for beginners?
Yes, absolutely. It includes helpful references and tips that are perfect for beginners. Even though it's a high-quality product, it doesn't feel intimidating. If you’re new to this, pair it with the nature journaling basics guide.
Can you use watercolor in The Laws Sketchbook for Nature Journaling?
You can, but I’d keep it light. The paper isn’t super thick like dedicated watercolor paper, but it holds up to small washes just fine. I like using it for watercolor nature journaling with just a few layers.
Where can I get ideas for what to sketch in it?
I’ve written a full post with nature journaling ideas, and there are lots of seasonal and location-based nature journaling activities you can explore. Try picking a theme like plants or specific habitats.
Does it replace other art supplies or books?
Not really—it complements them. I still use other books for deeper dives and I rotate between different notebooks depending on the trip. But this one is always part of my go-kit.