On the Moleskine's paper, my black brush pen is never really quite black, and ink washes brushed out from it just bead up rather than blend. I read a rumor that they are coming out with Moleskine notebooks with watercolor paper - this would be wonderful for me, because I love everything about the size and binding and plainness of my tiny sketchbooks, but the paper won't co-operate with water.
I find this resistant paper the one thing that doesn't make sense with Moleskine. Lightly scrubbing w/c on works to break the surface, totally changing my painting technique. I like having multiple styles, but yearn to use *flow* in my Moleskines!
Dare I mention that Winsor and Newton have a new small artists' journal out (leather snap cover and back pocket) that has MUCH more accommodating paper?
I have just spent some time looking for the same thing, Liz. I love the size, cost and look of the moleskine, but the surface is driving me crazy! Glad to hear about this Winsor Newton option--am going to go do the research now!
PS--if this a frustrated-with-materials drawing--I think it's very successful! evocative....