How to stretch watercolor paper for better painting experience

TOPICS: How to stretch watercolor paper (step-by-step), materials and techniques for a better painting experience. (This Tutorial Guide Has: What it is, Materials, Step-by-step, Video and FAQ’s)

Stretching watercolor paper is a technique used to prevent warping or buckling of the paper when it becomes wet during the painting process and is an essential preparatory step for artists who want a smooth, flat surface throughout the painting process, especially when using large washes or working with heavy water applications.

This technique involves soaking the watercolor paper in clean water—usually for about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the paper’s weight—until the fibers fully expand. Once soaked, the paper is laid flat on a drawing board or stretching board and secured tightly along the edges with gummed tape or staples. As the paper dries, it shrinks and tightens, adhering firmly to the surface and eliminating the risk of buckling.

Once completely dry, the stretched paper forms a taut, drum-like surface ideal for watercolor paint. This method is especially recommended for lighter-weight papers (such as 90 lb or 140 lb) or for artists who plan to use many wet-on-wet techniques

Materials Needed:

Watercolor Paper – Preferably 140 lb (300 gsm) or lighter for best results with stretching. Heavier papers (like 300 lb) often don’t need stretching. (See our recommendation: New York Central® 100% Cotton Watercolor Paper Sheets & Rolls)

Clean Water Basin or Sink – For soaking the paper until it’s fully saturated and pliable.
(See our recommendation: Creative Mark Collapsible Water Cup and Bucket)

Flat Wooden Board or Stretching Board – Smooth, rigid surface such as plywood, gatorboard, or masonite to tape the paper down on.

Gummed Paper Tape – Water-activated tape (not masking or painter’s tape) to secure the wet paper to the board.

Large Soft Brush – (like a Mimik Squirrel Mop Brush (Wash Glaze), Creative Mark Berlin Mottler Brush or Mimik Kolinsky Mottler ) – Optional, for applying water evenly across the paper if not soaking.
(For a Full Collection of premium brushes for watercolorists see: New York Central Oasis Synthetic Set of 8 Short Handle Brushes)

Soft Sponge or Towel – To gently blot excess water after soaking.

Spray Bottle (like a AquaMyst Spray Bottle or a SoHo Urban Artist Acrylic Spray Bottle 100 ml)
Useful for lightly rewetting edges if they begin to dry before taping.

Steps for Stretching Watercolor Paper:

By following these steps, you can effectively stretch watercolor paper to ensure a flat, stable surface for your artwork

1. Soak the Paper: Immerse the sheet(s) of watercolor paper in clean water for about 5-10 minutes. The paper should be fully submerged and allowed to absorb water evenly. Alternatively, you can wet both sides of the paper with a sponge or brush.

2. Prepare the Surface: While the paper is soaking, prepare a clean, flat surface to stretch the paper. This could be a drawing board, a piece of plywood, or stretcher bars covered with plastic sheeting.

3. Remove Excess Water: After soaking, gently remove the paper from the water and let excess water drip off. Be careful not to wring or fold the paper.

4. Secure the Paper: Place the wet paper onto the prepared surface. If using a drawing board or stretcher bars, use painter’s tape or gummed paper tape to secure the edges of the paper to the surface. Make sure the paper is stretched taut and flat, without any wrinkles or bubbles.

5. Let it Dry: Allow the paper to dry completely. Depending on the humidity and temperature of the environment, this may take several hours to overnight. You can speed up the drying process by using a hairdryer on a low heat setting, but be careful not to overheat the paper.

6. Trim or Remove: Once the paper is dry and stretched, you can trim any excess paper around the edges or remove it from the drawing board or stretcher bars. Be careful when removing the tape to avoid tearing the paper.

7. Paint: Your stretched watercolor paper is now ready for painting. The stretched surface will resist warping or buckling when you apply water and paint, allowing for smoother, more even washes and better control over your watercolor painting.

See our Video Tutorial on: Stretching Watercolor Paper

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Answers

Q: Why should I stretch watercolor paper?

A: Stretching prevents the paper from warping or buckling when wet, ensuring a flat, even painting surface.

Q: Which watercolor paper requires stretching?

A: Typically, watercolor paper lighter than 300 lb (640 gsm)—especially 140 lb (300 gsm)—benefits most from stretching.

Q: What happens if I don’t stretch watercolor paper?

A: Unstretched paper can warp significantly when painted on, making pigment distribution uneven and affecting the appearance of your finished piece.

Q: How long should I soak the paper?

A: Usually between 5 to 10 minutes, just until it becomes fully saturated and pliable. Avoid over-soaking, as this could weaken the sizing or structure.

Q: What type of tape is best for stretching watercolor paper?

A: Gummed, water-activated paper tape is ideal. Avoid masking or painter’s tape, as these won’t properly secure damp paper.

Q: Can I stretch watercolor paper without soaking it fully?

A: Yes, you can evenly wet the paper surface with a sponge or brush, but fully soaking is more reliable and yields more consistent results.

Q; How long does stretched watercolor paper take to dry?

A: Typically overnight (6-12 hours), depending on humidity and room temperature. Ensure it’s completely dry and taut before painting.

Q: What surfaces can I use to stretch the paper?

A: Smooth, rigid surfaces such as plywood, masonite, MDF boards, gatorboard, or specifically designed watercolor stretching boards.

Q: Can stretched watercolor paper be re-stretched or reused?

A: Yes, unused stretched paper can be carefully re-soaked and stretched again, but previously painted paper cannot effectively be re-stretched.

Q: How do I remove my painting from the stretching board once finished?

A: Use a sharp craft knife or blade to cut gently along the tape edges once your painting is completely dry.

Q: Does stretching affect the paper’s texture or sizing?

A: Properly stretching watercolor paper won’t negatively impact the surface texture or sizing if done carefully and not excessively soaked.

Q: What do I do if my stretched paper still buckles slightly after drying?

A: Lightly wet the back of the paper again and allow it to re-dry flat. Minor adjustments like this can usually resolve slight buckling.

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More Resources

1. The Best Professional Watercolor Paint Brands
2. Different Types of Watercolor Paper and Their Unique Qualities
3. Watercolor Tubes or Pans? The Pros and Cons
4. A Unique Way To Display Watercolor Art