Arches: Watercolor Paper and Pads

Better quality paper is so important for the final outcome of your art! Find at Jerry's, your experts in supplies, only the best artist watercolor paper, pads & water-media surfaces. Shop papers, blocks, panels, journals, boards, books and more including individual sheets, pads, sketchbooks, cards for creating your very own personalized greetings. Jerry's offers a large range of watercolor paper specially designed to meet the specific needs of watercolor painting techniques. Choose from features such as texture, weight, absorbency, sizing, acid free and tape or block bound.

See Also Recommended: Watercolor paint, Watercolor brushes, Watercolor pencils, Printmaking papers

Jerry's is the Artists' Trusted Choice!

As a trusted source for over 50 years, artists choose Jerry's Artarama for better materials, great sales, curated products and expert service. We’re committed to providing artists with 100% satisfaction and we’ll be happy to help you find the perfect watercolor paper needed for any type of style!

What is watercolor paper?

There are kinds of watercolor paper each offering unique qualities that enhance both the functionality and visual appeal of the paper. Artists can choose from sheets, pads, blocks or rolls to find the surface for their artistic creations. This paper is specifically designed to endure the use of water and pigment without bending or degrading ensuring a foundation, for crafting watercolor masterpieces.

Determining the best watercolor paper depends on various factors and preferences. Typical features and most common characteristics are:

Absorbency: Watercolor paper is engineered to absorb water and pigment evenly, allowing for controlled blending, layering, and washes of color. This absorbency prevents the paint from pooling or spreading unpredictably on the surface.

Weight: Watercolor papers are most measured in pounds (lbs). For example, such as 90lb (190 gsm) is suitable for practice sketches and studies, heavier weights such as 140lb (300 gsm) and 300lb (640 gsm), are more durable and can withstand multiple layers of paint and extensive wet-on-wet techniques. 140lb. paper is the most widely used.

Texture: Various textures include cold-pressed (textured), hot-pressed (smooth) and rough,. Texture affects how paint behaves and the overall appearance of the finished artwork. Cold-press papers are the most popular. Rough paper produces more pronounced texture and is suitable for expressive, loose painting styles, while smooth paper is better for detailed work.

Acid-free: Using acid paper helps maintain the look of artwork by preventing yellowing, damage and color changes over time. Watercolor paper of archival quality is usually acid free. Has a pH level ensuring long term preservation of the artworks integrity.
Jerry's Top Choice: New York Central® Watercolor Blocks

What is sizing? Watercolor paper undergoes a process where sizing is applied a material that regulates how much the paper can absorb and stops the paint from seeping into the fibers. Sizing also aids in ensuring that the paint glides evenly over the paper and enhances the richness of colors. Certain papers come with sizing while others feature surface sizing or even both.

Hot press and cold press watercolor paper are two kinds of textures often seen in watercolor papers. The key distinction is in the surface texture and finish of the paper, which can greatly affect how watercolor paint looks and behaves. Deciding between cold press and hot press depends on the artists painting style, techniques and desired outcome. Cold press paper has a level of absorbency which enables it to retain water and pigment while also offering a degree of paint control. In contrast hot press paper has lower absorbency. Its smooth surface allows water and pigment to sit up on the paper, for extended time providing artists with time to work with the paint. Cold press paper has texture great for expressive painting styles while hot press paper offers a smoother surface for intricate details and precise brushwork. Some papers are both internally and surface-sized.