I like to have all my students create sketchbooks. Over the years, I have finalized a solution that doesn't cost my entire budget. Last year, all three grades had those pocket portfolio folders, with the three-prong inserts. I create a set of intro papers, including a Welcome to Art with reminders on clean up and procedures, a drawing ideas list and warm up boxes.
Since I only have one 8th grade section this year, I could afford to buy them real sketchbooks vs. the kind we created first trimester. We spent the first week or so working on a collage for the front cover. It had to have a theme and unity. They turned out really well! We covered them with mod podge a few times, and it gave a glare on the camera
