Choose the Right Paper for Your Art: Exploring Watercolor and Mixed Media Options
As an artist, selecting the right paper is crucial to the success of any artwork, and watercolor and mixed media are no exception. The type of paper used can affect the outcome of the piece, and it is important to understand the different types of paper available and what they are best suited for.
When it comes to watercolor, it is essential to choose a paper that can handle the wet medium. Watercolor paper is specially designed to absorb water and pigment, preventing the paint from bleeding or warping the paper.
3 Types of Watercolor Paper
There are three main types of watercolor paper: hot press, cold press, and rough.
Hot press paper has a smooth surface and is ideal for detailed work and glazing techniques. Cold press paper has a slightly textured surface and is the most popular choice for watercolor artists as it allows for a balance between control and diffusion of the pigment. Rough paper has a heavily textured surface that creates a unique texture in the finished work, making it a popular choice for landscapes and abstract paintings.
Choose at least 140lb Paper for Watercolor
Weight is another important factor to consider when choosing watercolor paper. The weight of the paper is measured in pounds per ream (500 sheets) or grams per square meter (gsm). The higher the weight, the thicker and more durable the paper is. A weight of 140 pounds or more is recommended for watercolor painting.
What about Mixed Media Paper?
While the watercolor paper is ideal for watercolor painting, many artists prefer to use mixed media paper for their artworks.
Mixed media paper is designed to handle multiple mediums, including watercolor, acrylic, and oil paint. It is a versatile paper that can be used for a variety of techniques and styles.
One of the benefits of using mixed media paper is its ability to handle wet and dry mediums without bleeding or warping. Mixed media paper is also available in various weights, allowing artists to choose a thickness that suits their style and technique.
Another advantage of mixed media paper is that it is often less expensive than watercolor paper, making it an accessible option for artists on a budget.
However, there are some disadvantages to using mixed media paper for watercolor painting. The texture of mixed media paper is often smoother than watercolor paper, which can make it difficult to control the flow of water and pigment. The surface may also be less absorbent, resulting in a more faded appearance of the paint.
