Choosing the right paper for your art can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of paper available and some factors to consider when selecting. We’ll also provide some recommendations for the best paper for various art types. So whether you’re a watercolorist, an acrylic painter, or a mixed media artist, you’ll be sure to find the perfect paper for your needs.
What Paper Should I Use for My Art?
Different Types of Paper
There are many different types of paper available on the market, each with its unique benefits and drawbacks. Knowing which type of paper is right for your artwork can be tricky, but it’s important to choose carefully to get the best results. Here are some of the most common types of paper used in art:
Watercolour Paper: Watercolour paper is specially designed to hold up against water-based media without warping or buckling. It is typically made from cellulose fibres treated with sizing, making it durable and absorbent. Watercolour paper comes in various weights and surfaces, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Acrylic Paper: Acrylic paper is designed for acrylic paint, though it can also be used with other media. It is typically made from a synthetic material like polypropylene, which makes it resistant to water damage. Acrylic paper comes in various finishes, so you can find the one that best suits your painting style.
Oil Paper: Oil paper is designed for oil paint, though it can also be used with other media. It is typically made from a natural material like cotton or linen, which gives it a textured surface that helps create interesting effects in oil paint. Oil paper comes in various weights and surfaces, so you can find the one that best suits your needs.
Mixed Media Paper: Mixed media paper is designed for any combination of media, including pencils, paints, pastels, and more. It is typically made from a heavyweight stock like Bristol board or watercolour paper, which makes it sturdy enough to handle multiple mediums without warping or buckling. Mixed media paper comes in various surfaces, so you can find the one that best suits your needs.
How to Choose the Right Paper for Your Art?
Consider the Type of Art You Make
Different types of art require different types of paper. For example, watercolour paintings are typically done on absorbent paper, while oil paintings are done on paper that is non-absorbent. Consider the type of art you make when choosing the right paper for your needs.
Consider the Medium You Use
The medium you use will also dictate the type of paper you need. For example, if you use watercolours, you’ll need a different type of paper than acrylics or oils. Consider the medium you use when choosing the right paper for your needs.
Consider the Surface of the Paper
The surface of the paper can also affect your choice of paper. For example, if you want a smooth surface for your painting, you’ll need to choose a different type of paper than if you want a textured surface. Consider the paper’s surface when choosing the right paper for your needs.
The Best Paper for Various Types of Art.
The Best Paper for Watercolour Art
The watercolour paper needs to be able to withstand a lot of water without warping or buckling. A high-quality watercolour paper will have a “hot press” finish, meaning it is smooth and doesn’t have any texture. This type of paper is ideal for detailed work. You can also get the watercolour paper in a “cold press” finish with a slightly textured surface. This type of paper is good for washes and wet-on-wet techniques.
There are two types of watercolour paper: those made from wood pulp and those made from cotton. Cotton papers are more expensive but also more durable and absorbent. Wood pulp papers are less expensive but tend to warp and buckle more easily.
The Best Paper for Acrylic Art
Acrylic paint can be used on many different surfaces, but the best type of paper is a heavyweight, smooth Bristol board. The Bristol board is specifically designed for use with acrylics, so it won’t warp or buckle when the paint is applied. It also has a smooth surface that is ideal for detailed work.
If you want to experiment with other surfaces, you can use canvas, wood, metal, or glass. Just keep in mind that each surface will require its specific preparation before you start painting.
The Best Paper for Oil Art
Oil paints require a highly absorbent surface to work properly. Canvas is the most popular surface for oil painting, but there are also specially made oil painting papers available. These papers are usually made from linen or cotton and have been treated as extra absorbent. They can be tricky to work with because they tend to wrinkle easily, but they provide a beautifully textured surface for oil paintings.
The Best Paper for Mixed Media Art
Mixed media art can be created on any surface, but the best papers to use are heavyweight, smooth Bristol boards. Bristol boards provide a sturdy surface that won’t warp or buckle under the weight of multiple mediums. They also have a smooth surface that is ideal for detailed work.
If you want to experiment with other surfaces, you can use canvas, wood, metal, or glass. Just keep in mind that each surface will require its specific preparation before you start working.
Conclusion
Different types of paper can be used for different types of art. When choosing the right paper for your art, consider the type of art you make, the medium you use, and the paper’s surface. The best paper for watercolour art is different from the best paper for acrylic or oil art. Mixed media artists may prefer a different type of paper than those who only use one medium. Consider all these factors when choosing the right paper for your art.
