The Right Paper

Watercolor is not the easiest medium to learn as it is a moving force. Trying to control what it does is a learning experience and only comes with practice and experience. One thing that can help move this along a little more quickly is using the right paper. Watercolor is a finicky medium and anything you can do to appease it is a welcome thing! Working on 140lb cold press paper is the standard for most watercolorist. However, there are many different brands with a wide range of quality. Watercolor paper can be made of cotton rag and linters, which can be new fibers or recycled from old fabrics, wood pulp exclusively, or mixed with cotton fibers; a combination of wood pulp and cellulose, or cotton and cellulose mix (with cotton at just 25%). It can be artist grade (made with cotton fibers) or cheaper (made of a mixture of wood pulp or a mixture of wood pulp and cotton fibers). Yes, buy what you can afford but buy the best you can afford, and you will notice a difference in how the paper handles the water. Better paper helps the colors blend more evenly and lowers your frustration level. Better quality paper can be scrubbed without damaging the paper as much. I prefer block paper, which is paper glued down on all four sides except a small slit at the top where you release the paper once you are done painting. Most people expect the watercolor to bleed through. This does not happen. I prefer 100% cotton fiber paper as it handles the water well and evens out the pigments on the paper. There is less streaking, and it can give your painting a velvety look. It is more expensive, but worth it as the end result is much better than with cheaper papers Try a variety of papers to see what works for you. Everyone has different preferences, budgets and goals. Go in search of yours!