Getting started with watercolor painting can be a pretty exciting endeavor, however, the variety of watercolor supplies available can make it a baffling process to choose the most cost-effective and top-quality products. The heart of your watercolor painting, undeniably, will be the paper you choose. Using the wrong kind of paper can ruin your artwork, while the right quality paper will make your colors pop and ease your painting process altogether. This article aims to guide beginners through the world of high-quality and affordable watercolor papers.
The role of correct watercolor paper is often underestimated. It absorbs water and pigments, allowing you to manipulate your paint according to your desired result. It’s vital to understand that not all watercolor papers are created equal. Some papers can handle a lot of water and scrubbing, while others easily tear or pill. Knowing the type, texture, weight, and quality of watercolor paper is crucial for retrieving your desired results.
Types of Watercolor Paper
Watercolor papers are mainly divided into three types: hot-pressed (HP), cold-pressed (CP/NOT), and rough.
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Hot-Pressed Paper: This paper is smooth, making it ideal for detailed work, but it doesn’t hold washes as well as the other types.
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Cold-Pressed Paper: This is a semi-rough paper that is good for both detailed work and washes, making it a versatile preference among artists.
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Rough Paper: This paper has a pronounced tooth gripping the paint in all its crevices, making it excellent for washes, wet-on-wet approach, and other textural effects.
Watercolor Paper Weights
The weight of watercolor paper is an indicator of its thickness and sturdiness. It’s generally measured in grams per square meter (gsm) or pounds per ream (lb). The most common weights are 300gsm (140lb) or heavier, 200-300gsm (90-140lb), and less than 200gsm (less than 90lb).
Heavier paper can handle more pigment and water and doesn’t need stretching to prevent the paper from warping or buckling. However, they can be pricier. Lighter paper, while more affordable, will require stretching to avoid distortion when wet.
Quality: Student vs. Artist Grade
Watercolor papers come mainly in two qualities: student and artist. Artist-grade papers are designed with longevity in mind, made from high-quality cotton fibers, that showcase color brilliantly. They handle erasing, scrubbing, and scraping well without tearing or pilling. They are, however, pricey.
Student-grade papers are usually made from wood pulp or a blend of cotton and pulp. They are more economically packaged and are ideal for beginners, practice work, or quick studies. They lack the durability and strength of artist-grade paper.
Affordable and High-Quality Watercolor Papers for Beginners
There are many affordable and high-quality watercolor papers in the market ideal for beginners:
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Strathmore (200 Series) Good- Watercolor Pad: This is a student-grade paper that is acid-free and made from wood pulp. It’s perfect for light washes and easy to use, making it ideal for beginners.
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Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad: Also a student-grade quality paper, this Canson product is durable and comfortable to work with. It maintains the integrity of your brush strokes and is pretty affordable.
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Arches Cold Press Watercolor Pad: This artist-grade paper is made from pure cotton, offering an impressive absorbency that ensures vibrant and pure color rendering. Although a bit pricier compared to the former, it can currently be purchased as sheets, pads, or rolls, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
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Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paper: Another artist-grade paper, it is made from high-quality cotton providing excellent durability. The paper doesn’t yellow or degrade over time, ensuring the longevity of your artwork.
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Bee Paper Company Watercolor Paper: A great compromise between price and quality, this paper performs well under multiple washes and maintains the vibrancy of colors.
To select the perfect watercolor paper, factors such as what you love to paint, your painting style, and your budget should come into play. As a beginner, it would be wise to experiment with different types of paper, from student-batch to artist-grade, to decipher the kind that works best for you. Remember, the ‘right’ paper is subjective and depends solely on individual artist’s preferences.
Another key tip for beginners seeking to save money on watercolor paper is to buy in bulk or larger sizes – An A3 paper can be cut down into 4 A5 size papers, making it more cost-effective. A larger pad also gives you the freedom to paint larger images or to cut it down to custom sizes.
Never underestimate the value of good quality watercolor paper. The decision of which paper you use can make or break your artwork. It significantly affects how the watercolor is absorbed, how your painting dries, the brightness of your colors, and the overall final look of your painting. Investing in good quality watercolor paper is investing in the future grace and beauty of your artwork.
