Watercolor painting is a beautiful and unique art form that requires the right materials to achieve the desired effect. One of the most critical components of watercolor painting is the paper used. The right watercolor paper can make all the difference in the quality of the finished product.
When shopping for watercolor paper, there are several factors to consider. The most important is the weight of the paper, which can range from lightweight to heavy. The weight of the paper affects how much water it can absorb and how well it can hold up to multiple washes and layers of paint. Another critical factor is the texture of the paper, which can range from smooth to rough. The texture of the paper affects how the paint is absorbed and how it appears on the paper.
In this article, we spent hours researching and testing the best watercolor papers on the market to identify the ones that deliver the best results. We considered factors such as weight, texture, absorbency, and durability to determine which watercolor papers are the best for artists of all skill levels.
Best Watercolor Papers
We have researched and tested various watercolor papers to bring you the best options available. Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist, the right paper can make a significant difference in the quality of your artwork. In this roundup, we have included watercolor papers that offer excellent color retention, durability, and texture. We hope our list will help you find the perfect paper for your next watercolor project.
1. Canson XL Series Watercolor Textured Paper Pad
We highly recommend the Canson XL Series Watercolor Textured Paper Pad for anyone looking for high-quality watercolor paper.
Pros
- The paper is acid-free and manufactured using sustainable processes.
- The cold press texture of the paper is perfect for a variety of techniques.
- The durable surface of the paper stands up to repeated washes.
Cons
- The paper may not be suitable for advanced watercolor artists.
- The pad may not be ideal for outdoor use due to its size.
- The paper may buckle when using too much water.
This watercolor paper pad is perfect for beginners and intermediate artists. The paper is thick, and the texture is perfect for a variety of techniques, including pencil, colored pencil, pen, ink, charcoal, pastel, and acrylic. We also appreciate that the paper is acid-free and manufactured using sustainable processes.
The cold press texture of the paper provides a nice tooth, allowing for better control over the paint. The surface of the paper is also durable and can withstand repeated washes, making it perfect for practicing and experimenting with different techniques.
However, the paper may not be suitable for advanced watercolor artists who require more specialized paper. Additionally, the pad’s size may not be ideal for outdoor use or travel. Finally, the paper may buckle when using too much water, so it’s important to use the right amount of water to avoid this issue.
In conclusion, the Canson XL Series Watercolor Textured Paper Pad is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate artists looking for high-quality watercolor paper. Its texture, durability, and sustainability make it an excellent value for its price.
2. Arches A1795092 Bloc Enc 23×31 12H Aquarelle 100% Fine 300g Blanc NAT, White Natural
If you’re looking for high-quality watercolor paper, Arches Aquarelle 100% Fine 300g Blanc NAT is a great choice.
Pros
- Smooth surface for easy paint application
- Durable and can withstand water without tearing
- Excellent color retention
Cons
- Expensive compared to other watercolor paper brands
- May not be suitable for beginners due to its high price
- Limited number of sheets per pad
We’ve used this watercolor paper for several projects and we’re impressed with its quality. The surface is smooth and allows for easy paint application. It also doesn’t tear or buckle under water, making it durable for multiple layers of paint.
One of the best things about this paper is its excellent color retention. We’ve noticed that the colors remain vibrant even after drying, which is a testament to the quality of the paper.
However, one downside to this paper is its price. It’s more expensive compared to other watercolor paper brands, which may not be suitable for beginners or those on a tight budget. Additionally, the pad only contains a limited number of sheets, which may not be enough for larger projects.
Overall, if you’re willing to invest in high-quality watercolor paper, Arches Aquarelle 100% Fine 300g Blanc NAT is definitely worth considering.
3. UCreate Watercolor Paper, Bulk, 140 Lb., White, 9″ x 12″, 50 Sheets
If you’re looking for a cost-effective watercolor paper that is versatile and suitable for both wet and mixed media techniques, then UCreate Watercolor Paper is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The heavyweight paper (140 lb.) has a smooth uniform finish on both sides, making it an excellent choice for Pre-K and grade school students.
- The sturdy sheets are versatile and ideal for both wet and mixed media techniques.
- The 50 count pack of 9″ x 12″ sheets is an economical way for young artists to experiment with new techniques and provides enough sheets for the whole classroom, daycare, and more.
Cons
- The package has no cardboard backing, so most of the sheets had bent corners from the shipping box being damaged.
- The paper is quite thick, so it may not be suitable for all types of watercolor techniques.
- The paper may not be suitable for professional artists who require higher quality paper.
In our experience, UCreate Watercolor Paper is a great choice for beginners and intermediate level artists who want to experiment with different techniques without breaking the bank. The paper is acid-free, recyclable, and proudly made in the USA. We love that the UCreate brand is part of the Dixon Ticonderoga family of products, which is known for its bold colors and superior durability.
The paper has a nice texture and absorbs water well, making it easy to blend colors and create beautiful watercolor paintings. However, we did notice that the package has no cardboard backing, so most of the sheets had bent corners from the shipping box being damaged. Additionally, the paper is quite thick, so it may not be suitable for all types of watercolor techniques.
Overall, if you’re looking for a cost-effective watercolor paper that is versatile and suitable for both wet and mixed media techniques, then UCreate Watercolor Paper is a great choice.
4. Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad
We highly recommend the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad for anyone looking for a high-quality watercolor paper.
Pros
- Acid-free paper ensures long-lasting artwork
- Made in the USA with high-quality materials
- Cold press surface allows for experimentation and practicing techniques
Cons
- Some customers received pads with damaged corners due to inadequate packaging
- Some customers received pads without proper binding
- Limited number of sheets per pad compared to other options
The Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad is perfect for artists of all skill levels who want to experiment with watercolors. The acid-free paper ensures that your artwork will last for years to come, and the cold press surface allows for experimentation and practicing techniques.
While some customers have reported receiving pads with damaged corners due to inadequate packaging, this issue can be avoided by purchasing from a reputable seller. Additionally, some customers received pads without proper binding, which may be a concern for those who prefer a more traditional pad format.
Overall, the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality watercolor paper that is made in the USA and allows for experimentation and practicing techniques.
5. Arches Watercolor Pad, Hot Press 9″X12″
If you’re looking for a high-quality watercolor paper, we highly recommend the Arches Watercolor Pad. Made with natural cotton fibers on a cylinder-mold machine, this artist-grade paper is ideal for watercolor, gouache, acrylic, and airbrushing. With a natural gelatin sizing, it offers a smooth surface that’s perfect for creating detailed artwork.
Pros
- Made with natural cotton fibers on a cylinder-mold machine
- Great for watercolor, gouache, acrylic, and airbrushing
- Natural gelatin sizing provides a smooth surface for detailed artwork
Cons
- More expensive than some other watercolor paper options
- May not be suitable for beginners
- Only 12 sheets per pad
We love the Arches Watercolor Pad because of its high quality and versatility. The natural cotton fibers provide excellent absorbency, allowing for vibrant colors and smooth washes. The hot press finish offers a smooth surface that’s perfect for detailed work, and the natural gelatin sizing ensures that the paper remains strong and durable.
However, it’s worth noting that the Arches Watercolor Pad is more expensive than some other watercolor paper options. Additionally, it may not be the best choice for beginners who are just starting out with watercolor painting. Finally, with only 12 sheets per pad, it may not be the most economical choice for artists who paint frequently.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality watercolor paper that can handle a variety of media, we highly recommend the Arches Watercolor Pad. Its natural cotton fibers, smooth surface, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for any artist looking to create beautiful watercolor artwork.
6. Hahnemuhle Collection Watercolor Pad
If you’re looking for a premium watercolor paper that can withstand the most demanding watercolor techniques, then the Hahnemuhle Collection Watercolor Pad is a great choice.
Pros
- The paper is made of high-quality cotton and raw materials, offering strong fibers and incomparable purity.
- It can withstand multiple layers of color and masking fluids without lifting, rubbing off, or loosening.
- The paper is vegan, resistant to aging, and acid-free.
Cons
- The paper is quite expensive compared to other watercolor papers.
- The cold-pressed finish may not be suitable for all artists’ preferences.
- The pad only contains 12 sheets, which may not be enough for some artists.
We were impressed with the durability and quality of this watercolor paper. The fibers are strong and the paper can handle a lot of water without buckling or warping. We also appreciated that the paper is vegan and acid-free, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious artists.
However, we found that the cold-pressed finish may not be suitable for all artists’ preferences. Some artists may prefer a smoother or rougher texture. Additionally, the pad only contains 12 sheets, which may not be enough for artists who work on larger projects.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality watercolor paper that can handle multiple layers of color and masking fluids, the Hahnemuhle Collection Watercolor Pad is definitely worth considering.
7. ARTISTO Watercolor Pads
We highly recommend the ARTISTO Watercolor Pads for anyone in need of high-quality watercolor paper.
Pros
- The paper works well with all wet and dry media, making it versatile and convenient for all artists.
- The sheets are acid-free and pH neutral, ensuring that your artwork will last for a long time without yellowing or fading.
- The glue-bound sheets create a smooth edge that won’t damage your painting when removed.
Cons
- The grain on the paper is more prominent than other watercolor papers, which may not be ideal for everyone.
- The pads only come in one size (9×12 inches), which may not be suitable for larger projects.
- The pads only come in packs of two, which may not be enough for some artists who create a lot of artwork.
We found that the ARTISTO Watercolor Pads are perfect for all artists, from beginners to professionals. The paper is durable and can withstand repeated washes, making it ideal for better paint performance and longevity. The pads are also affordable, making them accessible to anyone who wants to create beautiful watercolor paintings.
The glue-bound sheets create a smooth edge that won’t damage your painting when removed, which is a great feature. Additionally, the acid-free paper ensures that your artwork will last for a long time without yellowing or fading.
Overall, we highly recommend the ARTISTO Watercolor Pads for anyone in need of high-quality watercolor paper. The pads are versatile, convenient, and affordable, making them a great choice for all artists.
8. 60 Sheets Watercolor Paper
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable watercolor paper, we recommend the 60 Sheets Watercolor Paper by TecUnite.
Pros
- The pack comes with 60 pieces of heavy paper, providing you with enough quantity to share with others.
- The watercolor paper is reliable to use, with characteristics like good absorption of water, pilling resistance, and rub resistance.
- The cold press texture of the paper is suitable for mixed media, such as wet and dry, allowing you to move color nicely to show a good vision experience.
Cons
- The paper takes longer to dry compared to other brands/types of watercolor papers.
- Some users have reported that the paper ripples/curls.
- The paper may be too thin for some users, despite being made with heavy paper.
We’ve used this watercolor paper for our own projects and have found it to be a great value for the price. The paper is durable enough to use repeatedly and the color is vivid when it dries. The size is also suitable for various applications, making it a nice gift for someone who likes sketching, watercolor painting, and more.
While the paper may not be the best on the market, it’s a great option for beginners, educational arts and crafts, school supplies, art exams, watercolorists, and more. Overall, we highly recommend the 60 Sheets Watercolor Paper by TecUnite.
9. Strathmore Watercolor Cards & Envelopes
We highly recommend the Strathmore Watercolor Cards & Envelopes for those looking for high-quality watercolor paper for their artwork.
Pros
- The heavyweight, textured cards made from 140 lb. cold press watercolor paper are perfect for any wet media including markers, acrylic, gouache, and watercolor.
- The package includes matching envelopes, making it easy to send your artwork as a gift or a personalized card.
- The item is manufactured in the United States, ensuring high-quality and durable materials.
Cons
- The cards may curl if they get too wet, so it’s important to use a light hand when applying watercolor.
- The paper may not be suitable for heavy paint application, as it may warp or buckle.
- The product may be more expensive than other watercolor paper options on the market.
We have used the Strathmore Watercolor Cards & Envelopes for various watercolor projects, and we have found them to be of excellent quality. The heavyweight paper texture allows for a smooth and even application of paint, and the watercolor paper holds the paint well without bleeding or smudging. The matching envelopes are a nice touch, and they add a professional finish to your artwork.
Overall, we believe that the Strathmore Watercolor Cards & Envelopes are an excellent investment for artists who want high-quality watercolor paper for their projects. The product is manufactured in the United States, which guarantees its durability and quality. The only downside is that it may be more expensive than other options on the market, but we believe that the quality justifies the price.
Buying Guide
When it comes to selecting the best watercolor paper, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
1. Weight and Thickness
The weight and thickness of the paper are important to consider. Heavier paper is more durable and can handle more water without buckling or warping. Thicker paper also allows for more layering and blending of colors. Look for paper that is at least 140 pounds or higher.
2. Texture
Watercolor paper comes in different textures, including rough, cold-pressed, and hot-pressed. Rough paper has a bumpy surface that creates interesting textures and is ideal for loose, expressive painting. Cold-pressed paper has a slightly textured surface that is versatile and suitable for a variety of techniques. Hot-pressed paper has a smooth surface that is best for detailed work and allows for crisp lines and edges.
3. Material
Watercolor paper is made from either wood pulp or cotton. Cotton paper is more expensive, but it is also more durable and can handle more water without warping. Wood pulp paper is less expensive, but it is also less durable and may not hold up as well over time.
4. Sizing
Sizing refers to the treatment of the paper to make it more resistant to water. Unsized paper will absorb water quickly and can be difficult to work with. Sized paper is treated with a substance that makes it more resistant to water and allows for more control over the paint. Look for paper that is acid-free and pH-neutral to ensure that it will not yellow or deteriorate over time.
5. Price
Watercolor paper can vary in price depending on the quality and brand. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in high-quality paper can make a big difference in the final result of your artwork. Consider your budget and look for paper that offers a good balance of quality and affordability.
In summary, when selecting the best watercolor paper, consider the weight and thickness, texture, material, sizing, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can find a paper that will suit your needs and help you create beautiful, vibrant watercolor paintings.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between professional and affordable watercolor paper?
Professional watercolor paper is made of high-quality materials, such as 100% cotton, and is designed to withstand multiple washes and layers of paint. Affordable watercolor paper, on the other hand, is often made of wood pulp or a blend of materials, which can result in a lower quality surface that may not hold up as well over time.
2. What makes 100% cotton watercolor paper better than other types?
100% cotton watercolor paper is considered the gold standard for watercolor painting because it is strong, durable, and can handle a lot of water without buckling or warping. It also has a unique texture that allows the paint to sit on the surface of the paper, giving it a more vibrant and luminous appearance.
3. Is rough or smooth paper better for watercolor?
The choice between rough and smooth watercolor paper is largely a matter of personal preference and the style of painting you want to achieve. Rough paper has a more textured surface that can give your paintings a more organic, natural feel, while smooth paper is better suited for detailed work and fine lines.
4. Why is Saunders Waterford watercolor paper a popular choice?
Saunders Waterford watercolor paper is a popular choice among artists because it is made of 100% cotton and has a unique surface texture that allows for excellent paint absorption and color retention. It is also acid-free and pH neutral, which helps to prevent yellowing and deterioration over time.
5. What should I consider when choosing a watercolor paper weight?
The weight of watercolor paper is measured in pounds per ream (lb), and generally ranges from 90lb to 300lb. The weight you choose will depend on your painting style and the amount of water you plan to use. Lighter weights are better suited for sketching and experimentation, while heavier weights are better for larger, more detailed paintings.
6. Is Arches the only high-quality watercolor paper brand available?
While Arches is one of the most well-known and respected brands of watercolor paper, there are many other high-quality brands available, including Fabriano, Saunders Waterford, and Winsor & Newton. The key is to choose a paper that meets your specific needs and preferences as an artist.
