Definitely relate, @thefoxthief. I used to be incredibly inconsistent when it came to using a journal/planner. When I picked up Bujo, I expected the same outcome. However, I'm going on my fourth year of keeping a daily log!
A lot of that is due to how I get to completely control the elements, and because of the rule I laid down when I first started: Do NOT try to make it perfect.
ANYWAY (;￣▽￣)ノ To your question:
Yes, I absolutely recommend dot graph sketchbooks! Here are some wins they provide:
Great for easy measuring/proportion control. Especially when drawing linear subjects like mechanical objects or buildings.
Can easily make a ton of consistent thumbnails using the dots as guidelines for framing.
Note-taking looks nicer when following the dot guides (I've used it to jot down ideas for later or write a snippet of a fan fic next to an inspirational doodle).
Depending on the brand you get, the dots can be very light, so as not to detract from your drawing.
Usually smaller in size, so filling up a page takes less time.
Key take-away: VERSATILITY.
A couple downsides to dot notebooks:
Editing out the dots for merchandise—I haven't found an efficient method of removing them yet.
Most are NOT receptive to materials that are watery: The paper will buckle. Page bleed-through can also happen, depending on the tools being used and the quality of the paper.
The brand I use for my journals is Leuchtturm1917.*
I've used Moleskine and Blackwing in the past for sketching, although I don't recommend either of them. Moleskine's paper quality tends to be flimsy and prone to bleeding. Blackwing's dots are too bold for my preference, but their paper quality is better than Moleskine's. I've also used the cheap ones you can find at Michael's, and they're good enough for on-the-go doodlin'.
*I highly, HIGHLY recommend JetPens for supplies. They do a great job demonstrating materials & have a lot of really cool stationery/artsy items to choose from. Their team is responsive and dedicated to detail. Never been dissatisfied with their service nor the products they sell!
Hope that was some nomilicious food for thought!
