Best Watercolor Paper: Fullfill the Needs of Handcraft Lover
Understanding Watercolor Paper
Before you can choose the right watercolor paper for your project, it's important to understand the differences between the various types of paper available. Watercolor paper is typically made from one of three materials: cotton, cellulose, or a blend of the two. Cotton watercolor paper is the most durable and absorbent option, making it the best choice for heavy washes and wet-on-wet techniques. Cellulose watercolor paper is less expensive and less durable, but it can still produce high-quality results if used properly. Blended watercolor paper offers a combination of the best qualities of both cotton and cellulose.
Choosing the Right Weight
Once you've decided on the material, the next thing to consider is the weight of the paper. Watercolor paper is typically sold in sheets or pads, and the weight is measured in pounds (lbs). The weight of the paper determines how much water it can hold and how well it will hold up to wet techniques. A heavier weight paper (such as 140lb or 300lb) is best for heavy washes and wet-on-wet techniques, while a lighter weight paper (such as 90lb or 120lb) is better for more delicate techniques and sketching.
Deciding on a Surface Finish
Watercolor paper also comes in different surface finishes, which can affect the way the paint looks when it's applied. A hot press finish has a smooth, even surface that produces sharp, clean lines and vibrant colors. A cold press finish has a slightly textured surface that creates a more diffused, softer look. Rough press has an even more pronounced texture that can add texture and interest to your paintings.
Watercolor paper is available in a variety of sizes and formats, from small sheets to large rolls. The size and format you choose will depend on the size of your project and your personal preference. Small sheets are great for creating detailed, precise paintings, while large sheets or rolls allow you to work on a larger scale and experiment with different techniques.
Other Considerations
When choosing watercolor paper, there are a few other things to consider, such as the brand and the price. Some brands are known for producing high-quality watercolor paper, while others may be less reliable. It's always a good idea to read reviews and do some research before purchasing to make sure you're getting a product that will work well for your needs. In terms of price, watercolor paper can vary widely, so it's important to determine your budget and choose a paper that fits within it.
Conclusion
Choosing the right watercolor paper can make a big difference in the success of your project. By understanding the different types of paper available, considering the weight, surface finish, size and format, and other factors, you can select the perfect paper for your needs. With the right watercolor paper, you'll be able to create beautiful, vibrant paintings that will impress and inspire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do you have to soak watercolor paper?
It is recommended to soak watercolor paper for about 5 to 10 minutes before painting. This helps the paper to stretch and prevents it from buckling when watercolor washes are applied. However, soaking too much may cause the paper to buckle even after drying, so it's important to find the right balance. Using good quality watercolor paper, like Arches, is also crucial for optimal results.
2. What is the difference between watercolour paper and normal paper?
The main difference between watercolor paper and regular paper is the weight and thickness. Watercolor paper is thicker and heavier to withstand multiple washes without warping. It also comes in various textures, which can impact the appearance of your watercolor painting.
3. What thickness of paper is good for watercolor?
The recommended weight for watercolor paper is 140 lb / 300 gsm. This weight strikes a balance between being not too thin and not too thick, minimizing the chances of warping during wet painting applications.
4. Should I wet my watercolor paper first?
Pre-wetting your watercolor paper can help achieve soft edges in your painting, such as for skies or rain. However, you need to use a stronger mix of paint than usual to avoid creating overly light areas. If you want to preserve areas of white paper in your sky, you would not pre-wet the paper.
5. Why is watercolor paper so expensive?
The high cost of the best quality watercolor paper is due to the materials used and the time-consuming production process. The best watercolor paper is made from 100% cotton, which is a premium material. Additionally, the compression process during manufacturing determines the surface texture, such as hot pressed, cold pressed, or rough, further adding to the cost.
6. What are the three types of watercolor paper?
Watercolor paper comes in three types based on the amount of pressure applied during the compression process. These types are hot pressed (very compressed), cold pressed (semi-compressed), and rough (loosely compressed). Each type offers a different surface texture for artists to explore.
7. Do you need to stretch 300 lb watercolor paper?
If you are using heavyweight watercolor paper, such as 300 lbs, you may choose to stretch it before painting if you anticipate heavy paint application or multiple washes. Alternatively, you can wet the paper with a sponge to help minimize warping. Stretching heavyweight paper for watercolor is a preference among some artists.
Editor's Notes
During our watercolor paper research, we found 25 watercolor paper products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 260,279 customer reviews through our big data system to write the watercolor paper list. We found that most customers choose watercolor paper with an average price of $13.26.
The watercolor paper are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of watercolor paper, including Canson, UCREATE, Strathmore, Colorations, Hapikalor. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
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.
