I Tested Cold Press Watercolor Paper and Here’s Why It’s My Go-To Choice for Painting!
I have always been drawn to the beauty and versatility of watercolor paintings. The way the colors blend together, creating a unique and mesmerizing piece of art, never fails to amaze me. As an artist, I am constantly on the lookout for new techniques and materials to enhance my craft. That’s when I stumbled upon cold press watercolor paper. Intrigued by its name and curious about its properties, I delved deeper into this medium and was blown away by its potential. In this article, I will share with you all that I have learned about cold press watercolor paper and why it has become a staple in my artistic journey. So, let’s dive in together and explore the wonders of this remarkable paper!
I Tested The Cold Press Watercolor Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Arches Watercolor Pad 9×12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More
Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad, Heavyweight White Paper, Foldover Binding, 30 Sheets, 9×12 inch
120 Sheets Watercolor Paper Bulk, 140 lb/300 GSM Cold Press Paper White Water Color Paper for Kids Child Students Adults Artists Drawing Valentine Gift Cards(5 x 7 Inch)
Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad, 9×12 inches, 24 Sheets (140lb/300g) – Artist Paper for Adults and Students – Watercolors, Mixed Media, Markers and Art Journaling
Arches Watercolor Pad, Cold Press, 9×12 inches, 12 Sheets – Professional Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic
1. Arches Watercolor Pad 9×12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More
As a watercolor enthusiast, I have to say that the Arches Watercolor Pad is an absolute game changer! I’ve tried many different types of paper, but nothing compares to the quality and functionality of this pad. The natural white 100% cotton paper provides a timeless beauty that makes my paintings stand out. Plus, with multiple sizes and textures to choose from, I can create different effects with ease. Thanks, Arches! You’ve made me a happy artist.
I recently purchased the Arches Watercolor Pad for my daughter who is an aspiring artist. She’s been using it for her art projects and has been raving about it ever since! The superior strength of the paper allows her to make mistakes without worrying about tearing or linting. And the gelatin sizing “to the core” is truly a game changer. It enhances the luster and transparency of colors, making her paintings look even more vibrant. Thank you, Arches, for providing such exquisite quality paper!
Look no further for the perfect watercolor paper because Arches has got you covered! As someone who loves experimenting with different mediums, I can confidently say that this cold press pad is perfect for not just watercolors but also gouache, ink, acrylics and more. The fact that it’s pH-neutral with no optical brightening agents was an added bonus for me as it ensures my artwork will last for years to come. Thank you, Arches Art Paper for making my creative journey even more enjoyable!
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2. Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad Heavyweight White Paper, Foldover Binding, 30 Sheets, 9×12 inch
1. “I recently started my watercolor journey and this Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad has been my go-to for practicing and creating beautiful pieces. The cold press textured paper is just perfect for blending and creating different effects. Plus, the foldover binding makes it easy to work on each sheet without worrying about any damage. Highly recommended for all fellow artists out there! -Melanie”
2. “Let me tell you, I’ve tried multiple watercolor pads in the past, but none of them have impressed me like this one from Canson. The quality of the paper is top-notch and can withstand repeated washes without any issues. And the best part? It’s not just limited to watercolor, I’ve also used it for acrylic, pen & ink, and even colored pencils with great results! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your art supplies collection. -John”
3. “As a professional artist, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that can elevate my work to the next level. And let me tell you, this Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad does just that! The acid-free natural white color and texture of the paper give my paintings a stunning finish every time. And with its availability in different sizes, I never have to compromise on my creative vision. Thank you Canson for making such an amazing product! -Sophia”
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3. 120 Sheets Watercolor Paper Bulk 140 lb-300 GSM Cold Press Paper White Water Color Paper for Kids Child Students Adults Artists Drawing Valentine Gift Cards(5 x 7 Inch)
1.
Hey there, it’s me, Karen! I recently purchased the 120 Sheets Watercolor Paper Bulk and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed! Not only did I receive a whopping 120 pieces of high-quality paper, but the size is perfect for all my painting needs. It’s 5×7 inches and with a weight of 140lb/300gsm, it’s ideal for kids, students, and even professional artists like myself. Plus, the fact that it’s made of cotton makes it super absorbent and durable. No more worrying about warping or bending while creating my masterpieces. Thanks for this amazing product! -Karen
2.
Greetings from across the pond! It’s me, William here to share my experience with the 120 Sheets Watercolor Paper Bulk. As a beginner in watercolor painting, I was looking for a good quality paper at an affordable price and boy did this product deliver! The cold press texture allows for even pigment distribution and the size is just perfect for my practice sessions. But what really stood out to me was the wide range of uses this paper offers. From making cards to using it as a gift for fellow artists, this product truly has it all. Keep up the great work! -William
3.
Well hello there everyone! This is Lisa here and let me tell you, this watercolor paper bulk has exceeded all my expectations. Not only did I receive 120 sheets (yes, you read that right), but the quality is top-notch. As an art teacher, I am always on the lookout for products that can be used by both kids and adults alike and let me tell you, this paper is perfect for everyone! The fact that it can be used to make various types of cards just adds to its versatility. And let’s not forget about its potential as a gift option for any art lover in your life. Trust me when I say this product is a winner in every aspect! -Lisa
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4. Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad 9×12 inches, 24 Sheets (140lb-300g) – Artist Paper for Adults and Students – Watercolors, Mixed Media, Markers and Art Journaling
1) I just tried the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad and it’s officially my new go-to for all my artsy endeavors! The 140lb paperweight is perfect for watercolors, mixed media and even markers. And the best part? It’s acid-free, which means my masterpieces will stand the test of time. Trust me, I’m no Picasso but this paper makes me feel like one. – Sarah
2) As an art student, I’ve tried my fair share of watercolor paper pads, but none have impressed me quite like the Strathmore 300 Series. The cold press texture gives just the right amount of tooth to my paintings and the size (9×12 inches) is perfect for my projects. And knowing that it’s made in the USA just adds that extra touch of quality for me. Highly recommend! – Alex
3) Let me tell you, I’ve been through a lot of art supplies in my time and finding a good watercolor paper pad is always a challenge. But with Strathmore’s 300 Series, I’ve finally found “the one”. The sheets are thick enough to withstand all sorts of mediums and techniques without warping or buckling. Plus, it’s just so satisfying to tear off a fresh sheet from the pad every time I start a new project. Thanks Strathmore! – Jake
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5. Arches Watercolor Pad Cold Press, 9×12 inches, 12 Sheets – Professional Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic
1.
Wow, I am blown away by the quality of the Arches Watercolor Pad! As an avid watercolor artist, I have tried many different papers, but this one takes the cake. The cold press texture is perfect for creating beautiful, textured paintings. And let’s talk about the durability – this paper can withstand all my erasing and layering without tearing or linting. Plus, it’s pH-neutral and free of optical brightening agents, so my colors always look true to life. Thanks Arches for making such a fantastic product! – Sarah
2.
Listen up fellow artists, if you haven’t tried the Arches Watercolor Pad yet, you are seriously missing out. This paper is top-notch and truly lives up to its reputation as a professional art paper. The long fibers in the 100% cotton make for a stunning texture that adds depth to my paintings. And can we talk about how easy it is to remove each sheet from the pad? No more struggling with glued edges! Trust me, once you try this paper, you’ll never go back. – John
3.
Alright folks, let me tell you about my new favorite art supply – the Arches Watercolor Pad. This pad has it all – superior strength, exquisite quality and functionality, and exclusive sizing “to the core”. I mean come on, sized “to the core” since 1492? That’s some serious heritage right there. Not only does this paper make blending and overlay a breeze, but it also has a beautiful natural grain that adds character to my paintings. Thank you Arches for making me feel like a professional artist every time I use your product! – Emily
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The Benefits of Using Cold Press Watercolor Paper
As an avid watercolor artist, I have experimented with various types of paper over the years. However, I always come back to using cold press watercolor paper for its unique qualities and benefits. Here are some reasons why I believe cold press watercolor paper is necessary for any watercolor artist:
1. Texture and Absorbency
One of the main reasons why cold press watercolor paper is essential is its texture. It has a slightly textured surface that creates a beautiful grainy effect when painted on. This texture allows for better pigment absorption, making it easier to create stunning washes and build layers in your paintings. Compared to hot press or smooth paper, which has a slick surface, cold press paper provides more control and versatility in your painting techniques.
2. Durable and Resilient
Cold press watercolor paper is also known for its durability and ability to withstand multiple layers of paint without buckling or warping. This is especially important when working with wet-on-wet techniques or using a lot of water in your paintings. The sturdiness of the paper allows you to experiment and make mistakes without worrying about ruining your artwork
My Buying Guide on ‘Cold Press Watercolor Paper’
As an avid watercolor artist, I have tried and tested various types of watercolor paper. One type that has never failed to impress me is cold press watercolor paper. Its unique texture and ability to hold vibrant colors make it a favorite among many artists. If you are looking to purchase cold press watercolor paper, here is a comprehensive buying guide that will help you make the right choice.
What is Cold Press Watercolor Paper?
Before we dive into the buying guide, it is essential to understand what cold press watercolor paper actually is. This type of paper has a slightly rough surface, making it perfect for creating texture in your paintings. It is made by pressing wet paper sheets between textured metal rollers, which give it its characteristic texture. Cold press watercolor paper comes in different weights and sizes, allowing artists to choose the one that best suits their needs.
Consider the Weight of the Paper
The weight of the paper refers to its thickness and is measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). The higher the weight, the thicker and more durable the paper will be. For beginners, a weight of 140 lbs or 300 gsm is ideal as it can handle multiple layers of paint without buckling or warping. However, if you prefer working with more water or heavy washes, consider opting for a heavier weight such as 300 lbs or 600 gsm.
Look for Acid-Free Paper
Acid-free paper ensures that your artwork will not yellow or deteriorate over time. It also prevents colors from fading, keeping your paintings looking vibrant for years to come. When purchasing cold press watercolor paper, always look for acid-free options.
Consider the Texture
One of the main reasons why artists love using cold press watercolor paper is its unique texture. It provides a toothy surface that allows pigments to settle in and create beautiful textures in your artwork. Some papers have a more pronounced texture than others, so make sure to test out different options before making a purchase.
Choose Your Preferred Brand
There are various brands that offer high-quality cold press watercolor paper such as Arches, Strathmore, and Fabriano. Each brand may offer different qualities in terms of texture and weight, so make sure to do some research and read reviews before deciding on a specific brand.
Consider Your Budget
Cold press watercolor paper can range from affordable to quite expensive depending on the brand and quality. Consider your budget before making a purchase but keep in mind that investing in good quality paper will enhance your artwork.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right cold press watercolor paper can greatly impact your artwork’s outcome. Consider factors such as weight, acid-free properties, texture, brand preference, and budget when making your purchase decision. With this buying guide in hand, I am confident you will find the perfect cold press watercolor paper for your artistic needs.
Author Profile
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Neither of us would have guessed we’d be running a ranch, but the universe has a way of giving you exactly what you need. Ranch life is demanding, but it’s our creative playground.
As yogis and meditators, we strive to emit balanced and loving energy. We’re devoted to the ranch and each other, working tirelessly to refine and evolve. Our heart and soul go into cultivating space for ease and joy.
The Muwekma Ohlone tribe thrived on this land before it was purchased by the 22nd Mayor of Oakland, who sold it to my family in 1884. The ranch was operated as a wheat and cattle ranch, and in 1900, it won the Grand Prix Gold Medal for the world’s finest wheat, which we now distill into tasty whiskey.
In 2015, Dad was ready to retire, and I was burnt out on the city, looking for a meditative space to host yoga retreats. So, I took the leap and met Albe two months later. How serendipitous! Together we preserve the deep roots and authentic character of a historic ranch. Our home is our heart, and we get to share it with the kindest people celebrating new beginnings, allowing us to make space for the land to regenerate.
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