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Choosing the right watercolor papers can drastically enhance your artwork, making colors pop, blending easier and ensuring the painting lasts longer. However, the wide array of options available can easily lead any artist to feel overwhelmed. In this article, we’ll guide you step by step, sharing our own tests and evaluations to highlight the best watercolor papers available.
The ideal watercolor paper should be thick enough to withstand the application of wet paint without warping or pilling. It should also have a good absorbency to help colors blend well and make the drying process easier. Using incorrect paper may result in colors bleeding, artwork rippling, and a reduction in overall quality.
When purchasing watercolor papers, take note of their weight, texture, and composition. The weight is measured in pounds or gsm (grams per square meter). Typically, heavier papers are more able to cope with wetter paints. Texture depends on your personal preference; rough textures offer more intensity and depth, while hot-pressed ones allow more fine details. The composition can vary from cotton, hulser, or wood pulp; the cotton fibers are typically the most durable among these.
Through extensive research, testing, and close consideration of your specific needs, we have identified the top watercolor papers available on the market today. By the end of this article, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the features that define the best watercolor papers for your creative pursuits.
Best Watercolor Papers
Selecting top-quality watercolor paper is crucial for artists working in this medium. The paper should cater to your preferred technique, varying from wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry to layering. The material should be robust, resistant to curling, and offer excellent color retention. With countless products asserting to be the superior, the buying process can get bewildering. In this article, we provide a list of the finest watercolor papers in the market, following in-depth research and testing so that you can make an informed choice for your creative journey.
Crayola Inspiration Pad
If you’re looking for a watercolor pad that is perfect for beginners and kids, the Crayola Inspiration Pad is a great option.
Pros
- The paper is acid-free, which means your artwork won’t fade over time.
- The pad is spiral-bound, making it easy to work on a tabletop or lap.
- The heavyweight paper can handle multiple layers of watercolor without buckling or warping.
Cons
- The pad only contains 12 sheets of paper, which may not be enough for some artists.
- The paper is pre-printed with grids, which may be distracting for some artists.
- The pad is not suitable for professional artists or those looking for high-quality results.
The Crayola Inspiration Pad is a great option for those who are just starting out with watercolor painting. The paper is of good quality and can handle multiple layers of watercolor without buckling or warping. The spiral-bound design makes it easy to work on a tabletop or lap, and the acid-free paper ensures that your artwork won’t fade over time.
One downside of the pad is that it only contains 12 sheets of paper, which may not be enough for some artists. Additionally, the paper is pre-printed with grids, which may be distracting for some artists. Finally, the pad is not suitable for professional artists or those looking for high-quality results.
Overall, the Crayola Inspiration Pad is a great option for beginners and kids who are just starting out with watercolor painting.
120 Sheets Watercolor Paper Bulk, 140 lb/300 GSM Cold Press Paper White Water Color Paper for Kids Child Students Adults Artists Drawing Valentine Gift Cards(5 x 7 Inch)
If you’re looking for a versatile watercolor paper that can accommodate various painting techniques, the 120 Sheets Watercolor Paper Bulk is a great option.
Pros
- The paper is pre-cut into 5 x 7 inch sheets, making it convenient to use for various projects.
- The 140 lb/300 GSM weight of the paper provides a smooth surface for painting and allows for easy blending of colors.
- The cold press texture of the paper creates a unique visual effect by allowing for better water absorption and preventing unwanted bleed through.
Cons
- Some users may find the paper to be too thick, which can make it difficult to fold for certain projects.
- The paper may not be suitable for very wet or heavy washes, as it may warp or buckle.
- The paper is unbleached, which may not be ideal for some users who prefer a brighter white color.
Overall, we found the 120 Sheets Watercolor Paper Bulk to be a reliable and versatile option for artists of all levels. The paper’s smooth surface and cold press texture make it suitable for various painting techniques, and the pre-cut sheets make it easy to use for a variety of projects.
The paper’s 140 lb/300 GSM weight provides a good balance between durability and flexibility, allowing for easy blending of colors without compromising the paper’s structure. Additionally, the paper’s ability to absorb water well prevents unwanted bleed through, ensuring that your artwork stays vibrant and true to form.
While the paper may not be suitable for very wet or heavy washes, it can still accommodate a variety of painting techniques, including wet-on-wet, dry brush, and glazing. Overall, the 120 Sheets Watercolor Paper Bulk is a great option for artists who are looking for a versatile and reliable watercolor paper that can accommodate various painting techniques.
PURE ENERGY Pills | Best Energy Booster Pills | 100% Vegan | 200mg Caffeine Per Pill | 120mg Theacrine Per Pill | 30 Servings | Boost Focus & Energy | Sugar Free | Gluten Free | Dairy Free | GMO Free | Made in USA
If you’re looking for an energy supplement that will help you power through your day, PURE ENERGY Pills might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The 200mg caffeine and 120mg theacrine per pill provide a potent energy boost.
- The pills are 100% vegan and made in the USA.
- The product is sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and GMO-free.
Cons
- The pills contain a high dose of caffeine, which may not be suitable for everyone.
- The product may not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- The pills may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions.
We’ve tried PURE ENERGY Pills and found that they provide a noticeable energy boost. The pills are easy to swallow and don’t leave a bad aftertaste. We also appreciate that the product is made in the USA and contains no sugar, gluten, dairy, or GMOs.
However, we recommend that you consult with your doctor before taking these pills, especially if you have a medical condition or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Additionally, the high dose of caffeine may not be suitable for everyone, so it’s important to start with a low dose and see how your body reacts.
Overall, if you’re looking for an energy supplement that will help you power through your day, PURE ENERGY Pills might be worth considering.
UCreate Watercolor Paper, Bulk, 140 Lb., White, 9″ x 12″, 50 Sheets
If you’re looking for a watercolor paper that is perfect for beginners or students, then the UCreate Watercolor Paper is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The paper is bulk-packaged, which means you get 50 sheets for an amazing value.
- It is pre-cut to standard sizes, which saves you time and effort in cutting the paper.
- The paper is acid-free, which means your artwork will last longer.
Cons
- The paper is only 9″ x 12″, which may not be suitable for larger paintings.
- The paper is only 50 sheets, which may not be enough for heavy users.
- The paper is not as thick as some other watercolor papers, which may affect the quality of your artwork.
We’ve used the UCreate Watercolor Paper, and we’re impressed with its quality. The paper is bright white, which makes it easy to see your artwork. It is also bulk-packaged, which means you get 50 sheets for an amazing value. The paper is pre-cut to standard sizes, which saves you time and effort in cutting the paper. Additionally, the paper is acid-free, which means your artwork will last longer.
However, the paper is only 9″ x 12″, which may not be suitable for larger paintings. It is also only 50 sheets, which may not be enough for heavy users. The paper is not as thick as some other watercolor papers, which may affect the quality of your artwork.
Overall, if you’re a beginner or student looking for an affordable watercolor paper, the UCreate Watercolor Paper is an excellent choice. It is easy to use, and it produces excellent results.
Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad, 9×12 inches, 24 Sheets (140lb/300g)
If you’re looking for a versatile watercolor paper that can handle a variety of techniques and mediums, the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad is a great choice.
Pros
- The 140lb/300gsm weight of the paper provides a nice balance between durability and flexibility, allowing for easy re-wetting without buckling or warping.
- The paper is acid-free and lignin-free, which means it won’t yellow over time and won’t interfere with the color vibrancy of your artwork.
- The pad is conveniently pre-cut into 9×12 inch sheets, making it easy to work with and eliminating the need for additional cutting.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the paper can be prone to bleeding if too much water is used, so it may not be the best choice for very heavy washes.
- The paper has a smooth finish, which may not be ideal for those who prefer a more textured look.
- While the pad contains 24 sheets, some users may prefer a larger quantity for greater value.
Overall, the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad is a reliable and affordable option for artists and hobbyists alike. Its durability and versatility make it a great choice for a variety of techniques and mediums, and its acid-free and lignin-free properties ensure that your artwork will stand the test of time.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best watercolor paper, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your selection:
Material
Watercolor paper can be made from a variety of materials, including cotton, cellulose, and wood pulp. Cotton fibers tend to be the most durable and absorbent, making them a popular choice for artists who want a high-quality paper that will hold up over time. Cellulose and wood pulp papers are more affordable, but may not be as durable as cotton fibers.
Weight
The weight of watercolor paper is measured in pounds per ream (500 sheets) or grams per square meter (gsm). Heavier papers tend to be more durable and absorbent, while lighter papers may be more affordable but less sturdy. A good rule of thumb is to choose a paper that is at least 140 lbs or 300 gsm for best results.
Texture
The texture of watercolor paper can affect the way the paint sits on the surface and interacts with the fibers. Rougher papers have more texture and can create more interesting effects, while smoother papers are better for detailed work and fine lines.
Sizing
Watercolor paper can be sized or unsized. Sized papers have a coating that helps to prevent the paint from being absorbed too quickly, allowing for more control over the final result. Ungsized papers allow for more spontaneous painting and blending of colors.
By considering these factors, artists can choose the best watercolor paper for their needs and achieve the results they desire.
