There is no minimum or maximum number of 3D pieces required for SL students. As long as you have artworks in 2 art-making forms from 2 separate columns (Column One- 2D, Column Two- 3D, Column Three- lens/electronic/screen based works) you fulfill the requirements. I would recommend at least one 3D piece but it is not compulsory (this way you can try it and then discard it if it doesn't work out). It is best that you discuss this with your teacher. Good luck!
Is there a certain grade of paper or journal that you reccomend to buy? i don’t mind paying more if it means the work will survive the entirety of the two years. are there ones which resist warping well? how many pages are a good ballpark?
Thank you for your q! To be honest, it really depends on your work and whether you use a lot of water-based media. You will probably use a variety of media on the course, so my advice would normally be to find a hardback sketchbook in an art-shop and just "feel" the quality of the paper and choose it based on that and the price. During the pandemic you might research reviews online and gauge the quality by the price. Most hardback sketchbooks should be ok.
