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Paper Surfaces
The surface of the watercolor papers range from very slick and smooth to very textured and
rough. Each surface has its own personality and handling characteristics. Many award winning
watercolor artists will select different surfaces to work on, depending on their style of painting.
There are three surface (types) of paper available
Hot Pressed (HP) -- A smooth paper which is manufactured by a
method where heat and pressure are used as suggested in its name.
Great for details and sharp edges.
Cold Pressed (CP) or (NOT) -- A paper 'not' hot pressed with a
slightly rougher surface. CP is the easiest to use and is best for the
beginner. It has a texture that allows it the stay wet longer and makes
it a favorite to work with when learning to paint watercolors.
Rough - A rough paper has a heavy tooth which can be used to get
a more textured or dramatic effect.
New papers are being introduced that have two surfaces. One side is hot pressed (smooth)
and the other cold pressed (semi-rough). I have not had the pleasure of trying these yet.
The surface of the watercolor papers range from very slick and smooth to very textured and
rough. Each surface has its own personality and handling characteristics. Many award winning
watercolor artists will select different surfaces to work on, depending on their style of painting.
There are three surface (types) of paper available
Hot Pressed (HP) -- A smooth paper which is manufactured by a
method where heat and pressure are used as suggested in its name.
Great for details and sharp edges.
Cold Pressed (CP) or (NOT) -- A paper 'not' hot pressed with a
slightly rougher surface. CP is the easiest to use and is best for the
beginner. It has a texture that allows it the stay wet longer and makes
it a favorite to work with when learning to paint watercolors.
Rough - A rough paper has a heavy tooth which can be used to get
a more textured or dramatic effect.
New papers are being introduced that have two surfaces. One side is hot pressed (smooth)
and the other cold pressed (semi-rough). I have not had the pleasure of trying these yet.
Watercolor Supplies and Materials ~ Papers
The most common weights for watercolor papers are 90# light weight - 140# medium weight - and 300# heavy weight.
I recommend Arches 140# CP for beginners. It is very forgiving, has a nice texture for learning the basics and is durable.
I recommend Arches 140# CP for beginners. It is very forgiving, has a nice texture for learning the basics and is durable.