Art Papers & Surfaces

Just about everyone's artistic experience starts with a piece of art paper and something to draw or paint with. And as any artists knows, the right kind of paper is just as important as a good idea. With the extremely broad range of paper found throughout this category, from sketchbooks, greeting cards, vellum, drawing paper, pastel paper, blank cards, and digital printing paper you will find the absolute best for your needs to create better art.

At Jerry’s Artarama, you’ll discover the widest selection of fine art paper at the best prices. No matter what mediums you work with, we carry the perfect paper to make sure your art look its finest. Our exceptional customer service team is available to help you find and order everything you need. Browse our extensive offerings today!

What's the Difference Between Art Paper and Canvas?

The main difference between paper for art and canvas is that once your piece is complete, art paper requires a frame with glass to protect the artwork, while canvas can be hung without a frame and does not need a mat or glass. Other differences include:

• Cost: Paper is typically less expensive than canvas.
• Storage and portability: Paper can be rolled and stored in a tube, while canvas cannot be rolled.
• Materials available: Paper comes in different weights, finishes, and fibers, while canvas is typically made of cotton or linen.

 

What Are the Different Types of Art Paper?

The different types of art paper include:

• Drawing paper
• Sketchbooks
• Pastel paper
• Watercolor paper
• Paper for acrylic and oil painting
• Printmaking paper
• Handmade and decorative paper
• Transfer paper
• Marker paper
• Colored pencil paper
• Mixed media paper
• Inkjet paper
• Vellum

The paper that is best for art depends on the type of art you are creating and your desired finished aesthetic. You have a wealth of options to choose from when selecting art paper, and it’s important to choose the paper that is best for your medium.
Art paper is made in different specifications that work specifically for mediums such as:

• Watercolor
• Acrylic paint
• Mixed media
• Oil paint
• Pastel
• Pen and ink
• Pencil
• Printmaking

By selecting the art paper that best represents your medium, you can ensure your finished masterpiece looks its best.

Deciding whether to paint on paper or canvas is really up to you! Both options provide a good surface for painting, and both offer benefits and drawbacks. Canvas tends to be the traditional choice, and it results in a high-quality finished appearance along with a painting that is long-lasting and easy to hang or frame. Canvas is not, however, as easy to travel with or ship.

Paper, on the other hand, is more economical and is convenient to roll up and carry or store. It can make sense for times when you want a quick setup and are comfortable with simple framing. Paper is more likely than canvas to flex or change depending on humidity.