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Best Watercolor Paper

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
#1

Winner

Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9"x

Hapikalor

Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9"x12" Water Color Paper, 140lb/300gsm Artist Painting Drawing Paper Book, Art Supplies for Adults Kids, Watercolors, Watercolor Paint Set, Sketchbook, Journal, Teal

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#2
Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad, He

Canson

21%OFF

Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad, Heavyweight White Paper, Foldover Binding, 30 Sheets, 9x12 inch

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#3
Arches Watercolor Pad, Cold Press,

Canson

Arches Watercolor Pad, Cold Press, 9x12 inches, 12 Sheets - Professional Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic

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#4
Arches Watercolor Block 8x10-inch N

Arches

33%OFF

Arches Watercolor Block 8x10-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 20 Sheets of Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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#5
Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Nat

Arches

Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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#6
Fingraspuro Watercolor Paper Pad 9x

Fingraspuro

Fingraspuro Watercolor Paper Pad 9x12 Inch, 30 Sheets, 100% Cotton, Acid-Free, Cold Pressed, for Painting, Drawing, Art Journaling, Professional Artist Quality

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#7
Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Pa

Strathmore

15%OFF

Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad, Tape Bound, 11x15 inches, 12 Sheets (140lb/300g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students - Watercolors, Mixed Media, Markers and Art Journaling

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#8
Arches Watercolor Travel Journal 6x

Arches

47%OFF

Arches Watercolor Travel Journal 6x10-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 15 Sheets of Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press - Arches Watercolor Journal for Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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#9
Strathmore 460-55 400 Series Visual

Strathmore

25%OFF

Strathmore 460-55 400 Series Visual Watercolor Journal, 140 LB Cold Press, 5.5"x8", 22 Sheets , White

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#10
Strathmore 440-1 400 Series Waterco

Strathmore

10%OFF

Strathmore 440-1 400 Series Watercolor Pad, 9"x12" Wire Bound, 12 Sheets

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Buying Guide for the Best Watercolor Paper

Choosing the right watercolor paper is crucial for achieving the best results in your artwork. Watercolor paper comes in various types, weights, and textures, each suited for different techniques and styles. Understanding these specifications will help you select the paper that best fits your artistic needs and preferences.
Paper WeightPaper weight refers to the thickness and sturdiness of the paper, usually measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm). Heavier paper (300 lb/640 gsm) is more durable and can handle more water without warping, making it ideal for heavy washes and wet techniques. Medium weight paper (140 lb/300 gsm) is versatile and suitable for most watercolor techniques. Lighter paper (90 lb/190 gsm) is more affordable but may buckle with heavy water use. Choose a weight based on the amount of water you plan to use and the durability you need.
Paper TextureWatercolor paper texture, or 'tooth,' affects how the paint interacts with the surface. There are three main textures: hot-pressed (HP), cold-pressed (CP), and rough. Hot-pressed paper has a smooth surface, ideal for detailed work and fine lines. Cold-pressed paper has a slightly textured surface, making it versatile for both detailed and loose styles. Rough paper has a pronounced texture, perfect for creating expressive, textured effects. Choose a texture based on your painting style and the level of detail you want to achieve.
Paper MaterialWatercolor paper can be made from different materials, primarily cotton or wood pulp. 100% cotton paper is the highest quality, offering excellent absorbency and durability, and is preferred by professional artists. Wood pulp paper is more affordable and suitable for beginners or practice work. Some papers are a blend of both materials, balancing quality and cost. Choose the material based on your experience level and the importance of archival quality in your work.
Paper SizingSizing refers to the treatment applied to watercolor paper to control its absorbency. Internal sizing is mixed into the paper pulp, while external sizing is applied to the surface. Properly sized paper allows for better control of water and pigment, preventing colors from bleeding excessively. Most quality watercolor papers are both internally and externally sized. Ensure the paper you choose has adequate sizing for the techniques you plan to use, especially if you work with wet-on-wet methods.
Paper FormatWatercolor paper is available in various formats, including sheets, pads, blocks, and rolls. Sheets offer flexibility in size and are often used for larger works. Pads are convenient for travel and practice, with multiple sheets bound together. Blocks are glued on all sides, preventing the paper from warping during painting, ideal for plein air painting. Rolls provide the most flexibility in size but require cutting and stretching. Choose a format based on your working environment and the size of your projects.