WHAT TYPE OF WATERCOLOUR PAPER SHOULD I USE?

By Daniela Ciobanu

A common question for someone just starting out.

Let me tell you, you don't need anything fancy to start to learn the foundations of watercolour or any other expensive suppliers. In fact, simplicity can sometimes be more beneficial. Basic materials like an inexpensive watercolor set and paper are all you need to grasp the fundamentals of this beautiful art form. However, as you progress and experiment with higher-quality paints and paper, you'll notice a significant difference in the outcome of your work and you wouldn't want to go back to the cheap paper or paints you may have used in the past.

On my learning journey I've started and used Canson a lot to begin with. I was on a budget, I was young and I was learning. I had then had my first commission - someone paying me for my art was amazing! So because I care and want to have the best possible outcome for the customer I decided to go to my local art shop in Portugal, called Arco Iris, still my favourite place to go. Good memories perphaps. But then I was looking to the paper options and I just choose the one by the texture feel, and loved the thick type of paper. The name of it was Arches. I would at the time care about the price, and let me tell you, I was not charging for the materials or framing properly. I mean was just my first commission. I wanted to make it special. So I bought 2 sheets of it.

At that time, I was unaware that I was using one of the top-tier papers available. Yes, you heard it right, TOP OF THE TREE! Why, you ask? Well, not only is it made of 100% cotton, but it's also a paper that allows you to correct your mistakes! Sounds unbelievable, doesn't it? This is possible due to its very high resistance to reworking on paint and enduring rough handling making it ideal for watercolour.

Here are some factors to consider before selecting your watercolor paper:

Weight Matters

#1 90 lb (190gsm) - Thin paper. Ideal for light washes; however, it may buckle under heavier applications of water or multiple layers.

#2 140 lb (300gsm) - This versatile, my top choice, offers a great balance between weight and performance, making it ideal for various watercolor techniques without causing much buckling.

#3 300 lb (640 gsm) - Perfect for heavy washes and advanced techniques, this is. a very thick paper which withstands multiple layers and manipulation without buckling.

Texture doesn't matter?

When you're picking paper for your art, remember that the texture is super important for how your artwork turns out. Sure, the weight matters too, but the texture can really change how your piece looks and feels. So, don't underestimate the power of texture over weight!

300 gms or 640 gsm - but I personally do not work on Hot press paper. Ever. I do not like how it looks or feels. Knowing your preferences based on what you've tried before, it also shoes that you've got an eye for what you like in your art materials. It's all good if you want to stick to what works for you.

Don't be afraid to mix it up and try different papers – you might be surprised by what you find! Even if you've had some bad experiences in the past, exploring new textures and weights could lead you to the perfect match that takes your art to the next level. Getting out of your comfort zone and testing out new materials can bring some awesome and unexpected results!

#1 Hot Pressed (HP)    - Smooth surface with minimal texture, perfect for detailed work and fine lines. It dries quickly, which can be advantageous for layering.

#2 Cold Pressed (CP)  - Slightly textured, making it the most versatile choice for various techniques. It's suitable for beginners and experienced artists alike.

#3 ROUGH (NOT) - Highly textured, providing a pronounced surface that adds a dramatic effect to washes and large strokes. Very good for more abstractive work.

Tips for Beginners

Each artist has unique preferences, and what works for me may not work for you. I encourage you to experiment with different weights, textures, and brands to find the perfect match for your style. Testing different papers helped me understand their individual characteristics and how they react to various techniques. Remember, I started with Canson, and that didn't make me stop painting!

Want advice? Feel free to contact me at info@ciobart.com

Happy painting!