A Unique Way To Display Watercolor Art

The more traditional ways to display watercolor paintings are frames with white matting, multi-opening collage frames, clear acrylic floating frames, mounting to acid-free board and using the proper art frame along with many other ways. (see more details below, see also: Mounting board)

However, we are here to talk about a new unique way to display your watercolor art.

There is a modern movement among watercolor artists who want to change the way that their artwork is displayed. The Soho Select stretched cotton watercolor paper may be an answer to their desires.

Join us for this article as we dive into what stretched watercolor paper is and how to use it along with images and video as seen below to help guide you on the journey into this unique way to display watercolor art.

By Mot Tuman

The traditional way to display watercolor work is in a picture frame behind glass. This creates challenges that other mediums, such as acrylics or oils, do not have. Reflections, glare, haziness, and more can destroy the intimacy that a viewer has with a painting.

While there have been many advancements in the world of picture framing that allow for the best experience possible, some watercolorists want to break from tradition, seeking out new and interesting surfaces to paint on and different ways of displaying their artwork.

What Is Soho Select Stretched Paper?

It’s Not Canvas, It’s Stretched Cotton Watercolor Paper!

Though it may look deceiving, this product is not a canvas primed for watercolor. Rather, it is a 140 lbs. hot pressed watercolor paper that has been placed onto stretcher bars just like canvas. The paper is carefully folded and stapled onto wooden bars that hold the paper taut.

See video: Presented by Mot Tuman / Full details, demo and explanations

There are several benefits to this. The Soho Select paper can be hung straight onto a wall just like any other canvas on stretcher bars. The stretcher bar construction also provides air flow to the back of the paper, allowing wet paint to dry faster. On top of this, artists can paint the edges just like canvas.

The creators of the Soho Select stretched paper were able to mould the product in such a way as to not cause any damage to the paper along the edges of the stretcher bars. This allows for a seamless transition from the front of the artwork to the edges, creating the same three dimensional look that canvas can achieve.

Is It Fragile?

Despite the benefits, some artists may be naturally wary of paper on stretcher bars. While paper is inherently more fragile than canvas there are several factors that make this paper durable enough to be used on stretcher bars. 

It is made of 100% cotton which has naturally long fibers that create a strong network, as compared to cellulose papers made from wood fibers. 

It is also internally as well as externally sized. Sizing is an ingredient that controls the way paper absorbs water. Internal sizing is used during the paper moulding process, while external sizing is applied to the outside of the paper once it is formed. Having both of these together can create a more durable paper because it prevents over absorption of water, allowing the paper fibers to expand consistently. 

So while the idea of a stretched paper might feel risky to some artists, this paper is strong enough to withstand sketching, large amounts of water, and many layers of paint without damage.

Prepping The Paper

Even though this paper is moulded onto stretcher bars, it still needs to be prepped to avoid buckling, just like typical watercolor paper. Luckily, due to its stapled construction, this is incredibly easy. 

Prior to painting take a spray bottle, large brush, or sponge and soak the paper with water. Make sure to wet both the front and the back of the paper for best results. At this stage the paper should start to buckle.

If too much water is applied and starts to pool on the paper, take a dry rag or sponge and carefully blot the surface until the paper is evenly soaked with no water pooling. After that leave the paper flat on its back in a safe place to dry. Tilting or hanging the paper may cause an uneven surface. 

As the paper dries it will slowly tauten on the stretcher bars and the buckling will disappear. This process allows the fibers of the paper to release tension and even out, which will reduce buckling while it is painted.

Varnishing And Finishing

Once it is fully dry, this paper is ready for use. Any medium that can be used on watercolor paper, such as gouache, ink, pencil, and of course watercolor, can be used on the Soho Select stretched paper. 

This hot pressed paper comes in a wide variety of different sizes and can be hung directly on the wall, just like any typical canvas. It can even be displayed in frames, such as a floater frame, and varnished. 
Jerry’s Recommended Floater: Illusions Aluminum Floater Frames

In order to varnish a watercolor piece, first make sure to use a spray fixative to help seal in the painting and keep it in place. Once it has at least a couple coats of a fixative, then apply a spray varnish following the instructions on the bottle. 

Be aware that varnish and fixative can slightly alter the colors and values of your piece. It is best to do a test swatch prior to spraying to have an accurate idea of how your piece will be affected.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Soho Select stretched paper?

A: Soho Select stretched paper is 100% cotton, 140lbs, hot pressed watercolor paper that has been moulded over stretcher bars, like a canvas. 

Is paper on stretcher bars durable?

A: While not all paper will be strong enough to withstand being placed on stretcher bars, the Soho Select stretched paper was created with durability in mind. 

Can you put paper on Stretcher bars?

A: Yes, paper can be placed onto stretcher bars. 

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More Resources

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