What Paper to Use for Watercolor?

Watercolor paper is essential for achieving good results when painting with this technique. Here are some tips on paper weight, texture, and recommended brands.

Paper Weight

The weight of watercolor paper refers to its weight per square meter (g/m²). A higher weight helps prevent warping or buckling when water is applied:

• 300 g/m² (140 lb): The standard for most watercolor work. It holds water well and does not warp easily.
• 200-250 g/m² (90-120 lb): Suitable for light washes or less wet techniques but may require stretching beforehand.
• Above 300 g/m² (more than 140 lb): Ideal for very wet techniques or large projects, as it can handle significant amounts of water without warping.

Texture

Watercolor paper comes in different textures, affecting the final appearance of your painting:

• Cold Pressed (NOT or Fine Grain): Slightly textured and the most versatile option. Ideal for detailed and general work.
• Rough: More pronounced texture, creating dramatic effects. Great for landscapes and expressive paintings.
• Hot Pressed (Satin Grain): Smooth surface, allowing for very fine details and crisp lines. Ideal for illustrations and precise work.

Material

• Cotton: High-quality, durable, and highly absorbent. Best for professional work.
• Cellulose: More affordable but less durable and absorbent.
• Mixed (Cotton & Cellulose): A balance between quality and cost.

Recommended Brands

Many high-quality watercolor paper brands are available. Here are some of the most renowned:

• Arches: A favorite among professional artists, offering high-quality paper in various textures and weights.
• Fabriano: Well-known for professional-grade paper with a variety of textures and weights.
• Saunders Waterford: Offers high-quality paper with a pleasant texture and good absorption.
• Canson: An accessible brand with a good range of watercolor papers, ideal for beginners and advanced artists.
• Winsor & Newton: Known for its art supplies, also provides quality watercolor paper.
• Hahnemühle: Offers a variety of excellent-quality and durable watercolor papers.
• Magnani 1404: A high-quality option with great absorbency and texture.

Additional Tips

• Stretching the Paper: If using lower-weight paper (under 300 g/m²), consider stretching it to prevent warping. This involves wetting the paper and securing it to a rigid surface until dry.
• Watercolor Blocks: A convenient option since the paper is glued on all four sides, eliminating the need for stretching.
• Experiment with Different Papers: Paper choice is personal, so try various brands and textures to find what suits your style and technique best.

Conclusion

Choosing the right paper can significantly impact your watercolor results. Investing in good-quality paper allows you to make the most of this technique and achieve satisfying outcomes.

My recommendations: Fine grain or cold-pressed, 100% cotton for professional work, and cellulose or mixed paper for practice and color testing. My preferred brands are Arches, Magnani 1404, and Canson.