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Papers for Artists

Choosing the right paper is just as important as choosing the right pencil or paint. Each paper has its own texture, weight, and surface that can completely change the look and feel of your artwork.

In this guide, we’ll explore different types of paper, when to use them, and some tips to get the best results.

Why Paper Choice Matters

Paper is more than just a surface - it’s part of the art. The right paper:

 

  • Brings out richer colors.

  • Holds your medium without smudging or bleeding.

  • Matches the mood and style of your work.

Key Paper Properties You Should Know

 i. GSM (Grams per Square Meter)

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  • 80–120 GSM: Thin, lightweight, good for sketching and practice.

  • 160–300 GSM: Thicker, works well for watercolor, markers, and mixed media.

  • Above 300 GSM: Heavy, ideal for professional paintings.


ii. Texture
 

  • Smooth (Hot Pressed): Great for fine details, pen & ink, colored pencils.

  • Medium (Cold Pressed): Balanced texture, perfect for watercolor and mixed media.

  • Rough: Holds more pigment, gives bold texture to paintings.


iii. Acid-Free
 
Prevents paper from turning yellow over time - important for artwork you want to last.

Choosing the Right Paper for Your Art Style
Medium
    Recommended Paper

Pencil & Charcoal

-   Smooth or medium sketch paper

Ink & Pen

-   Smooth, bleed-proof paper

Watercolor

-   Cold-pressed watercolor paper

Markers

-   Marker-specific bleed-proof paper

Pastels

-   Textured pastel paper

Mixed Media

-   Medium-to-heavy mixed media paper

1. Sketch Paper

  • Lightweight paper (50–100 GSM).

  • Best for practice, rough sketches, and doodles.

  • Usually has a slight tooth to grip graphite/charcoal.

  • Not suitable for heavy erasing or wet media.

  • Affordable and comes in pads or rolls.

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5. Toned Paper

  • Colored paper in shades like tan, grey, black.

  • Provides a mid-tone background to draw highlights and shadows.

  • Great for charcoal, colored pencils, and pastels.

  • Makes drawings look more dimensional and dramatic.

  • Often used in figure drawing and concept sketches.

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3. Watercolor Paper

  • Thick paper (200–640 GSM).

  • Specially designed to absorb water without warping.

  • Comes in 3 textures: Hot Press (smooth), Cold Press (medium), Rough (textured).

  • Essential for watercolor painting and gouache.

  • Often sold in blocks or sheets.

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7. Pastel Paper

  • Special rough tooth to hold pastel pigments.

  • Available in different colors and tones.

  • Works best for soft pastels, oil pastels, and chalk.

  • Helps in blending and layering colors.

  • Not suitable for ink or watercolor.

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Types of Papers for Artists

2. Cartridge Paper

  • Medium weight (120–200 GSM).

  • Smooth or slightly textured surface.

  • Works for pencil, ink, charcoal, and light watercolor.

  • More durable than sketch paper.

  • Commonly used by art students and professionals.

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6. Mixed Media Paper

  • Versatile paper (160–300 GSM).

  • Works for both dry and wet media.

  • Slightly textured → holds pencil, pen, watercolor, and markers.

  • Perfect for sketchbooks and experimenting with techniques.

  • Great for beginners who want one paper for everything.

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4. Marker Paper

  • Ultra-smooth, bleed-proof surface.

  • Thin but specially coated for alcohol markers and inks.

  • Prevents colors from feathering or spreading.

  • Great for illustrations, comics, and design work.

  • Allows layering of colors without soaking.

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8. Specialty Papers

Includes unique papers for specific uses:

  • Tracing paper – thin and transparent for transfers.

  • Bristol board – smooth and strong for ink and markers.

  • Rice paper – delicate, used in calligraphy and sumi-e.

  • Canvas paper – textured like canvas for painting practice.

  • Handmade papers – eco-friendly and decorative.

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Paper Care & Storage Tips

  • Keep flat in a dry place.

  • Use acid-free sleeves for important work.

  • Avoid folding or rolling unless necessary.

  • Store away from sunlight to prevent fading.

Final Tip

​Invest in a few types of paper and experiment - you’ll quickly feel which one works best for your style. Remember, good paper can make your art look better and last longer.

Explore the Paper Types in Detail:

  • Sketch Paper – Complete Guide >>>

  • Cartridge Paper – Complete Guide >>>

  • Watercolor Paper – Complete Guide >>>

  • Marker Paper – Complete Guide >>> 

  • Toned Paper – Complete Guide >>>

  • Mixed Media Paper – Complete Guide >>>

  • Pastel Paper – Complete Guide >>>

  • Specialty Papers – Complete Guide >>>

Start Learning More about Art Tools – Visit our Traditional Tools Section

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