What is a comic convention sketchbook?:
Convention sketchbooks are like autograph books - only instead of just a signature, you ask your idol to do a quick sketch for you. Sometimes these will be a quick squiggle, sometimes something more finished. Because it's impossible for many artists to keep up with demand for their work, some of them publish a 'sketchbook' of drawings for fans to purchase.
Paying for Sketches:
As with celebrity signings, most comic book artists charge a fee of $10 to $50 for signing or sketching, though some may do it for free. Some popular artists will not do sketches, partly because they simply haven't got the time, or because their work is so collectable that it tends to go from sketchbook to ebay! Remember that sketchbooks started out as an exchange between fellow artists, and that drawing is how they make a living.
Couldn't I buy it on Ebay?:
Maybe, but that's like buying a souvenir from a local ethnic shop, rather than on your tour through the far-away country. It looks nice, but you have no memories to go with it. If you're a collector, that's up to you, but for real fans, there's nothing quite like a moment's chat and a personalised sketch. There are also published Convention Sketchbooks, which are a great way to get to enjoy the art when the budget is tight.
Sketchbook Themes:
Great Convention Sketchbooks have themes - a particular character, a situation, or idea - 'love' or 'dogs' or 'sci-fi' or 'Lizard Man'. Try to be flexible - your theme might spark a flash of genius, or might fizzle - if the artist does something different, look at it as a pleasing variation. The Cliff Guy has one of the best theme collections ever created.
Which Sketchbook Should I Use?:
I'd suggest a hard-bound hot-pressed (smooth) watercolor sketchbook, with non-removable pages. These have a smooth surface which will work well with ink or pencil, are acid-free and permanent. The secure binding will reassure artists that their work isn't about to be ripped out. Admittedly, a spiral binding does have the advantage of laying flat, but either way, make sure the paper is of the best quality.
Care for Your Sketchbook:
Keep a piece of thin card under the drawing-page, to protect the following page. Have a piece of blotting paper cut to size and tucked into your sketchbook, so that you can put it between the pages if the artist uses ink. Show your sketchbook around - repaying the artist's generosity by giving them publicity - but keep it in a safe place - original art is collectable and valuable.
