Creating a watercolor painting feels like blending **magic** and **dreams** onto a canvas. Choosing the *right watercolor paper* is very important. This unique paper greatly impacts how your artwork appears. It’s similar to using the finest brush to paint a sunset—each stroke matters. **High-quality paper** can transform a dull painting into something extraordinary! Who wouldn’t want their art to **shine** like that?
Watercolor paper comes in various types, sizes, weights, and textures. The best watercolor paper is one that can absorb water and pigment while maintaining its shape and texture. The paper should also be able to withstand multiple layers of paint without tearing or becoming too saturated.
When choosing the best watercolor paper, one critical factor to consider is the paper’s weight. Watercolor paper is usually sold by weight, ranging from 90lb to 300lb. The weight of the paper determines its thickness and how much water it can absorb. Lighter weight paper is ideal for beginners and sketching, while heavier weight paper is better for professional artists and more advanced techniques.
Another factor to consider when choosing watercolor paper is the texture. Watercolor paper comes in three textures: hot-pressed, cold-pressed, and rough. Hot-pressed paper has a smooth surface and is ideal for detailed work and fine lines. Cold-pressed paper has a slightly textured surface that can add depth and dimension to a painting. Rough paper has a heavily textured surface that can create a unique and expressive look.
After researching and testing various types of watercolor paper, we have identified the best watercolor paper for artists of all levels. Our top picks offer excellent quality, durability, and versatility to help you create stunning watercolor paintings.
Best Watercolor Papers
We understand that choosing the right watercolor paper can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best watercolor papers to help you make an informed decision. Our team of experts has tested and reviewed various brands and types of watercolor papers to bring you the top contenders. Whether you’re a professional artist or a beginner, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the list and find the perfect watercolor paper for you.
Amazon Basics Watercolor Pad
If you are looking for a watercolor pad that is suitable for both professional artists and beginners, then the Amazon Basics Watercolor Pad is worth considering. The pad features a cold-press textural surface that is perfect for various media such as watercolor, acrylic, ink, pencil, charcoal, pastel, and more. The heavy-weight, acid-free construction ensures archival longevity, and the true-to-size sheets can be easily removed from the pad.
Pros
- The cold-press textural surface is perfect for various media, including watercolor, acrylic, ink, pencil, charcoal, pastel, and more.
- The heavy-weight, acid-free construction ensures archival longevity.
- The true-to-size sheets can be easily removed from the pad.
Cons
- The paper is not suitable for advanced artists who require higher quality paper.
- The paper may buckle slightly when used with heavy watercolor washes.
- The paper may not be suitable for wet-on-wet techniques.
We found that the Amazon Basics Watercolor Pad is a great option for beginners and intermediate artists. The paper quality is decent, and it can handle various media, including watercolor and acrylic. The cold-press textural surface provides a nice texture to work on, and the sheets can be easily removed from the pad.
However, the paper may not be suitable for advanced artists who require higher quality paper. The paper may buckle slightly when used with heavy watercolor washes, and it may not be suitable for wet-on-wet techniques. Overall, the Amazon Basics Watercolor Pad is a good value for the price and is worth considering for those who are looking for a decent quality watercolor paper for their art projects.
Canson XL Watercolor Pads, 9 In. x 12 In., Pad Of 30
If you’re looking for a versatile watercolor paper that can handle a variety of techniques, the Canson XL Watercolor Pads are definitely worth considering. With a cold press, textured surface, this paper is recommended for use with watercolor, acrylic, pen & ink, marker, colored pencil, pencil, charcoal, and pastel. The durable surface can withstand repeated washes, making it suitable for all wet media applications.
Pros
- The paper is resistant to repeated washes, making it suitable for all wet media applications.
- The 140 lb /300 gram acid-free paper is thick and durable, so it can withstand a lot of use without tearing or bleeding.
- The fold-over bound pad makes it easy to work on your art without having to worry about the pages falling out or getting damaged.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the paper can buckle or warp when used with a lot of water, so it may not be the best choice for very wet techniques.
- The paper is fairly expensive compared to some other options on the market, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget.
- The packaging is not very sturdy, so some users have reported receiving damaged pads.
Overall, we think that the Canson XL Watercolor Pads are a great choice for artists who want a versatile, high-quality paper that can handle a variety of techniques. While it may be a bit expensive, the thick, durable paper and fold-over bound pad make it a great investment for serious artists.
Fluid Artist Watercolor Block
If you’re looking for a high-quality watercolor paper that won’t break the bank, the Fluid Artist Watercolor Block is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The paper has a subtle tooth that makes it perfect for a variety of watercolor techniques.
- The Easy-Block binding makes it easy to remove one sheet at a time without having to worry about stretching or securing the edges with tape.
- The paper is acid-free and archival quality, so your artwork will stand the test of time.
Cons
- The glue binding on two sides can make it a little tricky to tear out pages.
- The texture of the paper may be too smooth for some artists who prefer a more textured surface.
- The paper may not hold up as well as some other brands when used with very wet techniques.
We were impressed with the quality of this paper, especially considering its affordable price point. The subtle tooth of the paper allows for a variety of watercolor techniques, and the Easy-Block binding makes it convenient to use. We also appreciate that the paper is acid-free and archival quality, so our artwork will last for years to come.
That being said, the glue binding on two sides can be a little tricky to work with, and the texture of the paper may not be ideal for artists who prefer a more textured surface. Additionally, the paper may not hold up as well as some other brands when used with very wet techniques. Overall, we think the Fluid Artist Watercolor Block is a great choice for artists who want a high-quality watercolor paper at an affordable price.
UCreate Watercolor Paper
If you’re looking for an economical option for student-grade artwork, UCreate Watercolor Paper is a great choice. It’s perfect for wet and mixed media techniques, and the uniform texture and whiteness of the paper make it an excellent option for groups or classroom activities.
Pros
- The super heavyweight 140 lb. student-grade watercolor paper has a smooth uniform finish on the front and back, making it a great choice for Pre-K and grade school students.
- The sturdy sheets are ideal for both wet and mixed media techniques, allowing young artists to experiment with new techniques.
- The 50 count pack of 9″ x 12″ sheets is a cost-effective way for young artists to experiment with new techniques and provides enough sheets for the whole classroom, daycare, and more.
Cons
- Some users may find that the paper is not suitable for professional-grade artwork.
- The paper may not hold up as well as higher-quality options when exposed to water for extended periods.
- The paper may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
We found that UCreate Watercolor Paper is a great option for young artists who are just starting to experiment with watercolor and mixed media techniques. The paper is sturdy and holds up well to repeated use, and the uniform texture and whiteness make it an excellent choice for classroom activities. While it may not be suitable for professional-grade artwork, it’s a cost-effective and reliable option for students and beginners.
BAOHONG Watercolor Paper Block
If you’re looking for a high-quality watercolor paper that is affordable and versatile, the BAOHONG Watercolor Paper Block is a great option.
Pros
- Made from 100% cotton fibers, it absorbs water without warping or causing colors to bleed.
- Acid-free paper ensures the longevity of your artwork.
- Cold-pressed finish has a light texture surface, allowing for a variety of watercolor techniques.
Cons
- The cold-pressed finish may be too rough for some artists.
- The block only contains 20 sheets, which may not be enough for larger projects.
- The paper may buckle slightly when heavily saturated with water.
We were impressed with the BAOHONG Watercolor Paper Block’s ability to absorb water without warping or causing colors to bleed. The acid-free paper ensures that your artwork will last for years to come. The cold-pressed finish has a light texture surface, which provides a good balance between rough and smooth textures. However, some artists may find the cold-pressed finish too rough for their liking.
The block only contains 20 sheets, which may not be enough for larger projects. Additionally, the paper may buckle slightly when heavily saturated with water, which could be a concern for some artists. Overall, we believe that the BAOHONG Watercolor Paper Block is a great option for artists who are looking for a high-quality watercolor paper that is affordable and versatile.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best watercolor paper, there are several factors to consider. We know that selecting the right paper can make a significant difference in the quality of your artwork. Here are some essential features to look for when buying watercolor paper:
Weight
The weight of the paper is one of the most crucial factors to consider. Watercolor paper comes in different weights, measured in pounds per ream (lb). The heavier the paper, the more water it can absorb without buckling or warping. We recommend choosing a paper with a weight of at least 140 lb, which is suitable for most watercolor techniques.
Texture
The texture of the paper is another important consideration. Watercolor paper comes in three textures: hot-pressed, cold-pressed, and rough. Hot-pressed paper has a smooth surface, while cold-pressed paper has a slightly rough surface. Rough paper has the most texture, with a bumpy surface. The texture of the paper affects the way the paint is absorbed and how it spreads on the surface. We recommend experimenting with different textures to find the one that suits your style of painting.
Material
Watercolor paper is made from different materials, including cotton, cellulose, and blends of both. Cotton paper is considered the best quality and is more durable than cellulose paper. However, it is also more expensive. Cellulose paper is less expensive but may not hold up as well over time. Blends of cotton and cellulose offer a balance between quality and affordability.
Sizing
Sizing refers to the coating applied to the surface of the paper to prevent the paint from soaking into the fibers. Sizing can be internal or external. Internal sizing is added to the pulp during the papermaking process, while external sizing is applied to the surface of the paper after it is made. Sizing affects the absorbency of the paper and the way the paint behaves on the surface. We recommend choosing a paper with good sizing to ensure that the paint stays on the surface and doesn’t bleed or feather.
Price
Finally, price is an important consideration when buying watercolor paper. High-quality paper can be expensive, but it is worth investing in if you want to produce professional-quality artwork. However, there are also many affordable options available that offer good quality for beginners and hobbyists.
In summary, when choosing the best watercolor paper, consider the weight, texture, material, sizing, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can select a paper that suits your needs and helps you achieve the results you want in your artwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should be considered when choosing watercolor paper for beginners?
When choosing watercolor paper for beginners, there are a few factors to keep in mind. Firstly, the quality of the paper is important as it can affect the outcome of the painting. Secondly, the weight of the paper should be considered as it affects the absorbency and durability of the paper. Lastly, the price should be taken into account as beginners may not want to invest too much money in their first paper.
How does the weight of watercolor paper affect painting outcomes?
The weight of watercolor paper is measured in pounds per ream (lb). The higher the weight, the thicker and more absorbent the paper is. This means that heavier paper can handle more water and pigment without buckling or warping. However, heavier paper can also be more expensive and may not be necessary for all painting styles.
Which watercolor paper brands are recommended for professional artists?
Professional artists often prefer brands such as Arches, Fabriano, and Saunders Waterford for their high-quality paper and durability. However, the best brand for each artist may vary depending on individual preferences and painting styles.
How does one prevent watercolor paper from buckling during use?
To prevent watercolor paper from buckling during use, it is important to stretch the paper before painting. This can be done by soaking the paper in water and then taping it to a flat surface until it dries completely. Alternatively, using a heavier weight paper or painting with less water can also help prevent buckling.
What are the top-rated watercolor papers available on Amazon?
Some of the top-rated watercolor papers on Amazon include Arches Watercolor Paper, Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Paper, and Canson XL Watercolor Paper. However, it is important to read reviews and consider personal preferences before making a purchase.
Between Canson and Strathmore, which brand offers superior watercolor paper?
Both Canson and Strathmore offer high-quality watercolor paper, but the superior brand may depend on individual preferences and needs. Canson XL Watercolor Paper is known for its affordability and smooth texture, while Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Paper is known for its durability and ability to handle multiple washes.