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Best Newsprint Paper of 2026

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Ann Hale

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Newsprint paper is a type of low-cost, thin and lightweight paper that is commonly used for printing newspapers, flyers, and other types of publications. It is made from wood pulp and is known for its high absorbency, which allows for fast drying of ink. Newsprint paper is typically uncoated and has a slightly rough texture. It is available in various sizes, weights, and colors to suit different printing needs. This type of paper is widely used in the printing industry due to its affordability and versatility.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Newsprint Paper

#TOP 1

Pacon® Plain Newsprint, 8 1/2" x 11"

  • Pacon
  • P3401
  • White
  • 8.5" x 11"
Pacon® Plain Newsprint, 8 1/2" x 11" Cover

Pacon® Plain Newsprint, 8 1/2" x 11", Ream Of 500 Sheets

Pacon® Plain Newsprint is a textured 30-lb paper designed for use with crayon, pencil, or charcoal. It effectively holds the writing medium and helps your designs shine.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Works well in inkjet printers
  • Ideal for foundation paper piecing
  • Affordable compared to specialty papers
  • Easy to tear and remove
  • Good for quick sketches

What We Don't Like

  • Not pure white color
  • Thin packaging may cause bent pages

What Customers Say

"I was looking for an affordable paper for foundation paper piecing in quilting, and this newsprint has been a perfect fit. It runs smoothly through my HP printer and tears away cleanly when needed. Plus, I get a whole ream for a fraction of the price compared to what quilt shops charge."

"As an artist, I use this inexpensive newsprint for quick sketches and brainstorming ideas. It's exactly what I needed—no issues with my Epson inkjet printer, and it's great for jotting down concepts before working on higher-quality paper. Definitely a good value for creative work."

"I tried this for my foundation paper piecing quilting projects, and it performed flawlessly. It feeds easily through my Brother laser printer, and tears away without any trouble. Just be aware the paper isn't bright white, but for my use, that's not a problem at all."

#TOP 2

Strathmore Newsprint Paper Pad for Sketching, 14x17 Inches, 50 Sheets

Strathmore Newsprint Paper Pad for Sketching, 14x17 Inches, 50 Sheets Cover

Strathmore 300 Series Newsprint Paper Pad, Tape Bound, 14x17 inches, 50 Sheets (32lb/52g) - Art Paper for Adults and Students - Practice Sketching with Charcoal, Graphite and Pencil

The Strathmore 300 Series Newsprint Paper Pad is perfect for adults and students who want to practice sketching with charcoal, graphite, and pencil. The pad features a heavier weight natural-toned newsprint that is acid-free and manufactured in the United States. Use this paper for preliminary drawing and improving your sketching skills.

9.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • High-quality paper texture
  • Sturdy, durable pad
  • Ideal for drawing and sketching
  • Works well with pencils and charcoal
  • Great value for money

What We Don't Like

  • Pages may come loose
  • Some pads arrive with wrinkled sheets

What Customers Say

"For my art classes, this sketchbook is perfect for all my drawing needs. The paper quality and thickness are just right, and it works beautifully with both pencils and charcoal."

"I've tried other brands, but Strathmore’s paper stands out for its sturdiness and quality. It's so good that I'm using it for commissions and switching from off brands."

"This pad is huge and has plenty of pages, exactly as described. It’s excellent for filling up with sketches from my life drawing class, and the box it comes in is a fun bonus!"

#TOP 3

UDAREIT 500 Sheets Newsprint Drawing Paper 8.5x11in

  • UDAREIT
  • 8.5x11 500P
  • white
  • 8.5x11 500P
UDAREIT 500 Sheets Newsprint Drawing Paper 8.5x11in Cover

500 Sheets Newsprint Paper 8.5 x 11in Plain Newsprint for Drawing Sketching Coloring, Drawing Paper Bulk for Kids Doodles

The UDAREIT Newsprint Drawing Paper comes in a convenient letter size of 8.5 by 11 inches, ideal for various dry art materials like graphite, charcoal, colored pencils, and pastels, though it’s not meant for printer use. With 500 sheets included, you’ll have plenty of paper to practice your sketches, doodles, or drawings without frequently running out. The paper is made from lightweight 30lbs newsprint, which works well with markers, crayons, pencils, pens, and charcoal, offering versatility for your creative projects. Plus, the recyclable and acid-free nature of the paper makes it a safe and eco-friendly choice for both kids and adults who enjoy art and doodling.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Ideal weight for paper piecing
  • Tears easily for quilting
  • Ink doesn't smear
  • Lightweight and thin

What We Don't Like

  • May jam some printers
  • Too thin for drawing

What Customers Say

"I was working on a large quilt and found this paper to be the perfect weight for foundation paper piecing. It made my project so much easier!"

"I tried this newsprint for my foundation paper piecing patterns and was happy that it’s very lightweight and off-white. Even after ironing, the ink held up well and the paper didn’t shrink. Tears away easily, which is just what I needed."

"I use a lot of quick figure drawing and sketches, but this paper is way too thin for my needs. Even when taped down, it wrinkles and waves whenever I try to draw on it. It’s really not suitable for drawing with charcoal or pastels."

#TOP 4

Canson XL Newsprint Paper Pad for Charcoal and Pencil

Canson XL Newsprint Paper Pad for Charcoal and Pencil Cover

Canson XL Series Newsprint Paper, Foldover Pad, 9x12 inches, 100 Sheets (30lb/49g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students

The Canson XL Newsprint Paper Pad is perfect for rapid sketching, drafts, and experimenting. The rough surface is ideal for use with charcoal and pencil. It contains 100 sheets of 9" x 12" newsprint paper per pad, made of 30 lb./46 Gsm newsprint paper.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Affordable price
  • Good for charcoal and dry media
  • Decent thickness for sketching
  • Convenient size options
  • Trusted brand quality

What We Don't Like

  • Paper is thin
  • Not ideal for wet media

What Customers Say

"I needed a smaller sketch pad for life drawing sessions, and this newsprint really fits the bill. It's affordable, has a nice vintage patina after some weeks, and is sturdy enough for quick sketches and erasing. The size also works for matting and selling if a drawing turns out especially well."

"This paper is my go-to for graphite, contè, and charcoal. It's exactly what I expect from Canson—reliable and consistent. I use it for practice with vine charcoal, and it never disappoints. The thinness and natural gray color are just right for sketching sessions."

"I bought this gray newsprint as a journal filler and it's perfect. The large sheets let me make two pages from one, and I love having a gray paper option to mix things up in my journals."

#TOP 5

Pacon 3409 White Newsprint Paper

  • Pacon
  • 3409
  • White
  • 12" x 18"
Pacon 3409 White Newsprint Paper Cover

Pacon 3409 White Newsprint, 30 lbs., 12 x 18, White, 500 Sheets/Pack

Pacon White Newsprint is an excellent choice for your drawing and coloring needs. With 500 sheets in a pack, you have plenty of paper to unleash your creativity. The smooth finish of the unlined white sheets makes it easy for you to glide your pencil or pen across the surface, ensuring clean and vibrant results. Whether you're sketching, coloring, or practicing your art skills, this newsprint offers the ideal canvas. Its generous size of 12 x 18 inches provides ample space for larger projects, making it a versatile option for artists of all levels.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Good for tracing patterns
  • Suitable for flower pressing
  • Thin yet sturdy paper
  • Accurate newsprint color

What We Don't Like

  • Not ideal for printers
  • Unbound paper sheets

What Customers Say

"I found this paper perfect for tracing quilt blocks—it's thin enough to see through but holds up well for paper piecing."

"I use this paper frequently in my flower press, and it has always been reliable and high quality."

"When I tried using this for printing wedding programs, the paper kept jamming in my printer because it's thinner and slicker than other newsprint I've tried."

#TOP 6

Strathmore Smooth Newsprint Paper Pad 18x24

Strathmore Smooth Newsprint Paper Pad 18x24 Cover

Strathmore Smooth Newsprint Paper Pad 18"X24"-50 Sheets -307018

The Strathmore Newsprint Paper Pad offers a medium-weight, smooth surface that is ideal for those looking to improve their dry drawing skills. Its natural-toned paper allows you to see your graphite pencil work clearly, making it perfect for sketching and shading. If you enjoy working with colored pencils, this pad provides a great practice surface to help you refine your technique. With 50 large sheets measuring 18 by 24 inches, you’ll have plenty of space and paper to experiment and create your art comfortably.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • High quality paper
  • Sturdy and durable pad
  • Ideal for art classes
  • Works with pencils and charcoal
  • Excellent value for money

What We Don't Like

  • Pages may detach easily
  • Some pads arrive slightly wrinkled

What Customers Say

"I'm really impressed by the premium paper quality and how sturdy the pad feels—makes it super convenient to use without it flopping around. The price is fantastic too!"

"For my drawing class, this sketchbook is just what I needed. The thickness and texture of the paper are spot on, and it works great with both regular and charcoal pencils."

"The size is massive, making it perfect for filling up with sketches during my Life Drawing class. Plus, it comes with plenty of pages and even a giant storage box!"

#TOP 7

Strathmore STR-307-809 Newsprint Pad

Strathmore STR-307-809 Newsprint Pad Cover

Strathmore STR-307-809 50 Sheet Rough Newsprint Pad, 9 by 12"

The Strathmore Newsprint Pad is an affordable and sturdy choice for artists who enjoy sketching and drawing. Its rough texture makes it perfect for preliminary sketches and figure studies, giving you a natural feel while working. The paper weight is 32 lb, which is thick enough to handle graphite, charcoal, colored pencils, and sketching sticks without easily tearing or smudging. At 9 by 12 inches, this tape-bound pad offers a convenient size that’s easy to carry and use, making it a practical option for both beginners and experienced artists.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Economical price
  • Durable paper
  • Suitable for multiple mediums
  • Convenient 9"x12" size

What We Don't Like

  • Pages may detach easily
  • Some sheets slightly wrinkled

What Customers Say

"For my drawing class, the paper thickness and texture are just right—not too stiff or rough. It handles pencils and charcoal beautifully, making it a reliable choice for all my sketches."

"I needed this for art classes and I'm impressed by the sturdy material. The only minor issue is that pages can come loose pretty easily."

"This sketchbook is huge and packed with pages—perfect for filling up with life drawing doodles. Plus, the large box it came in is a nice bonus!"

#TOP 8

Uboxes Newsprint Packing Paper, 25 lbs

  • Uboxes
  • NEWSPRINTW25
  • Brown
  • 24" x 30"
Uboxes Newsprint Packing Paper, 25 lbs Cover

Uboxes Newsprint Packing Paper, 25 lbs, Approx 500 Sheets, NEWSPRINTW25

This newsprint packing paper from Uboxes comes in 25lbs and approximately 500 sheets. The wrapping paper size varies between 24-28 inches wide x 30-36 inches long and is the preferred size used by professional movers. The clean, white newsprint sheets are a fast and ideal solution to wrap and protect dishes, glasses, and other breakable items. The convenient pre-cut sheets make it easy to pack and sold by weight, with exact sheets varying.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Thick and large sheets
  • No ink residue
  • Excellent value
  • Versatile use
  • Protects fragile items well

What We Don't Like

  • Paper may rip if not flattened
  • Packaging may arrive dirty

What Customers Say

"I've found this packing paper to be much thicker and larger than what I used before, making it my go-to for moves. The price is great for the amount you get, and it’s a big step up from U-Haul’s version."

"This paper made packing my entire move a breeze. The large sheets are perfect for wrapping and crumpling, which kept my glassware safe. I love that there’s no ink mess like with newspapers, and it’s a better deal than bubble wrap."

"I buy this paper for shipping packages to my customers. It’s lightweight, dye-free, and easy to tear into the right size. Plus, it doesn’t leave any residue on my hands. Just make sure you flatten it out before using so it won’t rip."

#TOP 9

Strathmore Newsprint Pad, 18"x24", 50 Sheets

Strathmore Newsprint Pad, 18"x24", 50 Sheets Cover

Strathmore 300 Series Newsprint Paper Pad, Tape Bound, 18x24 inches, 50 Sheets (32lb/52g) - Art Paper for Adults and Students - Practice Sketching with Charcoal, Graphite and Pencil

The Strathmore 300 Series Newsprint Pad is an economical way to practice sketches and drawings. This pad features heavier weight newsprint paper with a 32 pound basis weight, ideal for accepting graphite pencil, colored pencil, charcoal and sketching stick. Its perfect size makes it easy to carry with you at all times.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Large paper size
  • Versatile for multiple mediums
  • High-quality texture
  • Trusted brand reputation
  • Good value for quantity

What We Don't Like

  • Binding could be sturdier
  • Price slightly high for some

What Customers Say

"I was really happy with this pad for my art class projects. The generous size and quality paper made it perfect for everything I needed in class."

"I love using this for my art classes—it's wonderful with pencil, charcoal, and markers. My only minor issue was that the edges came apart a bit, but a little tape fixed it easily and I still enjoy using it!"

"This Strathmore pad is fantastic for life drawing—spacious enough for creativity but still portable for traveling to class. Definitely a great choice for artists!"

#TOP 10

25lbs Newsprint 24x36 Sheets - Premium Quality Eco-Friendly Paper

25lbs Newsprint 24x36 Sheets - Premium Quality Eco-Friendly Paper Cover

25lbs Newsprint 24x36 Sheets - Bulk Pack of Premium Quality, Eco-Friendly Paper for Moving, Art, and Packaging - Versatile for Multiple Uses

Protect your valuables during a move with these lightweight 24x36 inch newsprint wrapping paper sheets. Not just for moving, these versatile sheets can be used for art projects, packaging, and more. Made from premium-quality, 100% recycled materials, they are both strong and sustainable. You'll get excellent value for your money with competitively priced packs containing a generous number of sheets.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Good for bird cages
  • Affordable price
  • No ink or odor
  • Versatile for packing
  • Consistent quality

What We Don't Like

  • Slight size inconsistency
  • Occasional paper type variation

What Customers Say

"I use this paper for my parrot's cage and it's much cheaper than newspaper subscriptions. The sheets are usually the right size and work well for my needs. I keep coming back for more because it's reliable and cost-effective."

"This newsprint paper is perfect for packing up boxes during our move. It saved us a ton of money compared to what home improvement stores charge. Highly recommend ordering if you're planning a move!"

"I love using this paper for lining puppy kennels, painting projects, and packing. The sheets are easy to handle, can be cut down, and do a great job keeping things clean. I'm very satisfied and will definitely be buying again."

Newsprint Paper Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Pacon® Plain Newsprint, 8 1/2" x 11" Cover

Pacon® Plain Newsprint, 8 1/2" x 11"

#TOP 2 Strathmore Newsprint Paper Pad for Sketching, 14x17 Inches, 50 Sheets Cover

Strathmore Newsprint Paper Pad for Sketching, 14x17 Inches, 50 Sheets

#TOP 3 UDAREIT 500 Sheets Newsprint Drawing Paper 8.5x11in Cover

UDAREIT 500 Sheets Newsprint Drawing Paper 8.5x11in

#TOP 4 Canson XL Newsprint Paper Pad for Charcoal and Pencil Cover

Canson XL Newsprint Paper Pad for Charcoal and Pencil

#TOP 5 Pacon 3409 White Newsprint Paper Cover

Pacon 3409 White Newsprint Paper

#TOP 6 Strathmore Smooth Newsprint Paper Pad 18x24 Cover

Strathmore Smooth Newsprint Paper Pad 18x24

#TOP 7 Strathmore STR-307-809 Newsprint Pad Cover

Strathmore STR-307-809 Newsprint Pad

#TOP 8 Uboxes Newsprint Packing Paper, 25 lbs Cover

Uboxes Newsprint Packing Paper, 25 lbs

#TOP 9 Strathmore Newsprint Pad, 18"x24", 50 Sheets Cover

Strathmore Newsprint Pad, 18"x24", 50 Sheets

#TOP 10 25lbs Newsprint 24x36 Sheets - Premium Quality Eco-Friendly Paper Cover

25lbs Newsprint 24x36 Sheets - Premium Quality Eco-Friendly Paper

Brand Pacon Strathmore UDAREIT Canson Pacon Strathmore Strathmore Uboxes Strathmore Secure Seal
Material Paper Paper Paper Paper Paper Paper Paper Wood Pulp Paper Paper
Color White Rough white - White Smooth Natural Tone Brown White White
Sheet Size 8.5-x-11-inch 14 x 17 inches 8.5 x 11 inches 9 x 12 inches 12 x 18 inches 18" x 24" 9 x 12 - 18-x-24 24 x 36 Inches
Paper Finish Smooth Smooth Uncoated Uncoated Smooth Smooth Smooth - Uncoated -
Item Weight - 16 ounces 1.28 Kilograms 0.8 Pounds 7.3 Pounds 1.05 Pounds 9.6 ounces 25 Pounds 1.25 Pounds -
Sheet Count - 50 500 100 500 50 50 - 50 -
Paper Weight - 32 30 30 30 32 32 - 32 -
Paper Dimensions - 14 x 17 inches 8.5 x 11 inches 9 x 12 inches 12 x 18 inches 18" x 24" 9 x 12 inches - 18x24 inches -
Unit Count - 1.0 Count 500.0 Count 1.0 Count 1.0 Count 1.0 Count 50.0 Count - 1.0 Count -
Recommended Uses For Product - Sketching - Sketching - arts & crafts Sketching - Sketching Crafts, Scrapbook
FTB Score
9.8
9.7
9.5
9.5
9.3
9.3
9.2
9.1
9.0
8.9
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is newsprint paper used for?

Newsprint paper is commonly used by publishers to produce newspapers, magazines, and similar marketing publications. It is a cost-effective thin paper made from mechanical, chemical, and deinked wood fibers.

2. Is newsprint paper good for printing?

Newsprint paper is a relatively low grade of paper, so the print quality is not as sharp as higher-grade papers like magazines. It is also not as bright white as office paper. Imperfections, such as marks or creases, are normal in newspapers printed on newsprint paper.

3. Is newsprint cheaper than paper?

Yes, newsprint paper is significantly cheaper compared to other types of paper. It is a cost-effective option, with large rolls averaging between one and a half to three cents per square foot. Using newsprint paper for packaging or other purposes is more affordable than using standard paper, bubble wrap, or cardboard.

4. Can newsprint paper be used in a laser printer?

Newsprint paper can generally be used in a laser printer without any safety concerns. It is considered a 'paper' based material, suitable for laser printing.

5. What are the disadvantages of newsprint paper?

Some disadvantages of newsprint paper include wastage, as a significant amount of paper is used in publishing news articles. Additionally, newspapers often contain more advertisements than actual news content, which can be a drawback for some readers.

6. Which printer is used for newspaper printing?

Offset printers are commonly used for newspaper printing, especially for higher volume work. These printers use rolls of paper and are fast, requiring force drying of the printed paper. Offset printers are also used for producing books, stationery, posters, and more.

Editor's Notes

During our newsprint paper research, we found 24 newsprint paper products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 63,825 customer reviews through our big data system to write the newsprint paper list. We found that most customers choose newsprint paper with an average price of $19.10.

The newsprint paper are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of newsprint paper, including Pacon, Strathmore, UDAREIT, Canson, Uboxes. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.