Why Should You Use Watercolor Paper?

Watercolor paper is specifically designed for use with watercolors and is essential for achieving the best results in watercolor painting. Here are some reasons why you should use watercolor paper for your watercolor paintings:

1. Absorption: Watercolor paper is designed to absorb water and color, which allows for the colors to flow smoothly and blend easily. This is important because watercolor paints are translucent and allow the white of the paper to show through, creating the effect of light and luminosity.
2. Durability: Watercolor paper is made of high-quality materials and is designed to withstand the repeated soaking and drying that is required in watercolor painting. This means that it won’t tear, buckle or become damaged over time, ensuring that your artwork remains in good condition for years to come.
3. Texture: Watercolor paper comes in different textures, such as rough, cold-pressed, and hot-pressed, each providing a unique surface for painting. These textures allow for different effects in your painting, such as the creation of fine lines, smooth washes, or a rough and textured appearance.
4. Archival Quality: Watercolor paper is made of acid-free and lignin-free materials, ensuring that it will not yellow or deteriorate over time. This makes it an excellent choice for artists who want their artwork to last for generations.
5. Versatility: Watercolor paper can be used for various water-based media, including watercolor, gouache, and acrylics. This makes it a versatile choice for artists who enjoy experimenting with different techniques and styles.

In conclusion, using watercolor paper is essential for achieving the best results in watercolor painting. It provides absorption, durability, texture, archival quality, and versatility, making it an essential part of your painting toolkit.

You can find any number of quality papers through Utrecht or Blick. Just a warning though — it can be overwhelming to open that can of worms. If you want some help, read the following posts.