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Watercolor painting requires specialized paper designed to absorb and retain water without warping or deteriorating. Standard papers such as copy paper, sketch paper, or gouache paper are unsuitable due to insufficient thickness and poor water retention.
Key Considerations in Watercolor Paper Selection
1. Basis Weight: Opt for paper weighing at least 300 g/m². Heavier paper resists buckling and supports multiple washes and layering.
2. Fiber Composition:
- Cotton Pulp Paper: Higher cost, warm tone, excellent water absorption, and smooth blending. Ideal for detailed work and layered techniques.
- Wood Pulp Paper: More affordable, brighter appearance, smoother surface, easier to erase. However, it absorbs water less effectively and is prone to staining and uneven drying.
3. Texture: Available in three finishes:
- Hot-Pressed (Fine Grain): Smooth surface; pigment dries quickly. Suitable for detailed illustrations such as portraits and botanicals.
- Cold-Pressed (Medium Grain): Balanced texture; combines detail retention with subtle tooth. Most versatile; recommended for beginners.
- Rough (Coarse Grain): Pronounced texture; enhances granulation effects. Ideal for expressive landscapes and wet-on-wet techniques.
Both sides of watercolor paper can be used, though textures may differ. One side is typically smoother.
Recommendation for Beginners
While wood pulp paper is more economical for practice, cotton pulp paper offers superior performance and longevity. Beginners are encouraged to experiment with both to understand their differences. With experience, artists can select paper based on desired style and budget.
Popular Brands: Baohong (cost-effective domestic option), Barbizon, Famenger, Arches, and Hahnemühle. While personal experience may vary, Arches and Hahnemühle are internationally recognized for quality.
Purchasing Channels: Available on Taobao, Pinduoduo, and Xianyu. Second-hand or surplus lots on Xianyu may offer cost savings, especially for bulk purchases.
Paper Sizes: Common formats include 4K, 8K, 16K (≈A4), and 32K (≈half-A4). Larger sizes are more expensive. Choose based on intended use-smaller sizes for studies, larger ones for framing or gifting.
Summary
Always use genuine watercolor paper for watercolor painting. Select a weight of at least 300 g/m² for stability. Cotton pulp paper is recommended for its superior handling and durability. Among textures, cold-pressed (medium grain) is the most versatile choice for beginners unsure of their preference.
