2. The most challenging task for most water color artists is
to choose the best paper for their work. This situation
has been aggravated by the fact that there are too many
types of papers in the market which tend to confuse
them. For instance several artists have wasted huge
amounts of money in purchasing rolls of papers which
turn out to be inappropriate for their job. Since most
outlets do not offer options to return such papers, the
artists end up disposing them thus losing their money.
However, this can change for the better if you follow the
points as explained below.
3. The qualities of the paper you are bound to purchase
form the greatest factor to be considered at before
doing any purchase. Issues such as texture and weight
should be thoroughly scrutinized before making the
purchase. For texture, you should be fully aware of the
various types available in the market. Three types,
namely rough, hot and cold press texture papers are
available for you. Understand the details of each type
and where to apply them. As a description, hot press
types are smooth and work well with different inks and
color pencils. Cold press types on the other hand are
designed for use by experienced artists. They can be a
challenge to most beginners as the papers are very
5. As for the weight issue, choose the paper which is light.
Specifically, go for the 90lb weight paper. This type of
paper is ideal for beginners. Once you age in this
profession, you can graduate to using the 140lb or the
300lb types of papers. These types are best for a more
detailed artistic works.
6. The absorbent properties of the paper need to be keenly
looked at. Chose the types which will not let the
pigment absorb to the other side of the paper. You can
do a small test before procuring for huge quantities. Just
apply a few drops of pigment on the sample paper
provided by the outlet and observe the results. Be sure
that you leave the outlet with the right work for your
drawing works.
7. The cost of papers forms another important factor which
should be on the fore before doing the purchase. Some
outlets tend to overprice their stationery. These are the
outlets you need to avoid. Do a spot check on the price
range of different outlets. This will give you a hint on
which outlet is cheaper.
8. The format and size of paper for different artistic
drawings needs to be factored in before the purchase.
The size of the paper you need to purchase will depend
on your requirements. If you need to do detailed work,
then you can go for the minimum paper of 18 by 24
inches in size. These papers are available in sheets, pads
or blocks.
9. Clean drawings are always appealing to the eye. The
secret to this is to purchase papers which are spotlessly
clean. Make sure that the papers you are purchasing are
all clean.
10. It is of extreme consideration that you should not
purchase a paper which has been manufactured from
acidic ingredients. This kind of paper extensively reacts
with different pigments and thus it is not good for use.
Most water color artists have complained that such
papers are difficult to work on. You need to scrutinize
the labels in the packaging material of papers to ensure
that they are acid free. If you are not sure, you are free
to ask the attendants of the outlet. They will help in
choosing the right acid free paper.