Drawing Papers
Ready to put your drawing skills to the test? Look no further than our roundup of top drawing paper options. From smooth lines to bold strokes, we’ve got you covered with a variety of high-quality paper choices perfect for all artists. Prepare to unleash your creativity and enhance your art with our carefully curated selection of drawing paper.
The Top 13 Best Drawing Papers
- Canson Pure White Drawing Art Board — Acid-Free and Durable Canvas for Detailed Sketches — Canson Pure White Drawing Art Board — Smudge-resistant, durable, and permanent paper for detailed drawings, perfect for framing without mounting.
- Prang Lightweight Drawing Sketch Pad for Young Creatives — Ignite your child’s creativity with this durable, 100-sheet sketch book from Prang, perfect for dry media and featuring an acid-free, recyclable design.
- Premium 9" x 12" XL Drawing Pad with 60 Micro-perforated Sheets — Unleash your creativity on the smoothing drawing pad, offering 60 eraser-ready sheets, and compatible with a diverse range of sketching tools.
- Heavy-Duty 90 lb. Acid-Free Drawing Paper for Various Media — Borden & Riley’s 90 lb. acid-free drawing paper is a versatile and heavy-duty choice, perfect for dry and wet media and recommended for watercolor, pen & ink, markers, pencils, charcoal, and pastels.
- Daler-Rowney 45 GSM A4 80 Sheet Layout Pad — Unleash your creativity with the Daler-Rowney 45 GSM A4 80 Sheets Series A Layout Pad — an acid-free, sustainably made choice for students, artists, and professionals alike.
- Legion Stonehenge 18" x 24" Drawing Paper Pad — Experience affordability and precision with the Legion Stonehenge Drawing Paper Pad — an American-made, archival-quality paper perfect for artists seeking a smooth and flawless vellum surface.
- Canson Ingres Moonstone Drawing Paper — 19" x 25 — Experience the versatility and quality of Canson Ingres Moonstone drawing paper, offering a premium blend of cotton, durability, and versatility perfect for dry techniques.
- Medium-Weight, Acid-Free, Recycled Drawing Paper — Experience the versatility and high-quality performance of Pacon’s PAC4728 Drawing Paper, featuring medium-weight design, excellent tooth and retention, and acid-free material for a long-lasting, bright finish. Perfect for multiple drawing purposes!
- Kids Drawing Paper Roll with Patterns — Discover the fun and creativity of drawing with Amind4U Kids Drawing Paper Roll, a 120-inch roll perfect for young artists of all ages to develop skills, imagination, and hand-eye coordination.
- Warm White Stonehenge Drawing Mini Pad for Artists — Experience the exceptional quality of Stonehenge’s warm white 250gsm mini pad, ideal for artists seeking versatility and tradition in their drawing paper.
- Seawhite A3 Heavyweight Drawing Paper Pads — Ideal for Painting, Sketching, and Technical Drawing — This Seawhite A3 Cartridge Paper Pad is a British-made, 220 GSM heavyweight drawing paper, perfect for painting, sketching, and technical drawing, and boasts wet strength and 2mm greyboard backing.
- Easel Roll Drawing Paper: 18" x 200FT 50-IB White — Experience the versatility of Easel Roll Drawing Paper, a 18” x 200’ roll of high-quality sulphite paper specifically designed for both wet and dry media, perfect for professional and amateur artists alike.
- High quality Drawing Paper — Fade-resistant Art Paper, 50 lbs, Multicolor Designs — Ink-coated art paper that provides superior fade-resistance for vibrant, long-lasting projects, oversized 18"x24" sheets, and features 60 sheets in 20 different colors — perfect for paper sculpture and more!
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Reviews
Canson Pure White Drawing Art Board — Acid-Free and Durable Canvas for Detailed Sketches
I recently started using the Canson Pure White Drawing Art Board for my sketches, and I’m impressed with its quality. The paper is smooth and consistent, making it perfect for detailed drawings and layouts.
I appreciate the smudge-resistance and durability, as my sketches stay looking great without any disruptions. The boards are also great for framing without mounting, saving me time and effort. However, I do wish they were a little more resistant to erasing, as I often make mistakes when working on my art.
Overall, this Canson Pure White Drawing Art Board has been a reliable and high-quality option for my creative projects.
Prang Lightweight Drawing Sketch Pad for Young Creatives
This lightweight sketchbook from Prang is a fantastic choice for budding artists of all ages. With 100 sheets of smooth paper, perfect for dry media such as pencils, colored pencils, and crayons, it’s an ideal blank canvas for young minds to explore their creative potential. The spiral binding on the side allows the book to lay flat for easy use, and the acid-free, recyclable pages ensure that artwork will stay vibrant and colorful over time.
Despite some users wishing the pages were slightly thicker, the majority of reviewers praise the high-quality construction and durability of this sketchbook, making it a must-have for any art enthusiast.
Premium 9" x 12" XL Drawing Pad with 60 Micro-perforated Sheets
Imagine sketching like never before on the Canson XL drawing pad! This 9" x 12" pad boasts 60 sheets of 70-pound/114 gram acid-free paper, perfect for pencils, charcoal, and pastel. Its smooth surface erases easily, while the micro perforation allows for simple sheet removal.
The wire-bound design ensures durability, and its versatility makes it an ideal choice for artists of all levels.
Heavy-Duty 90 lb. Acid-Free Drawing Paper for Various Media
Get ready to embark on your creative journey with Borden & Riley’s 90 lb. drawing paper, a versatile and high-quality medium suitable for a wide range of media. The paper is made in the USA, offering an artful touch that you can truly appreciate. Its smooth, acid-free surface is perfect for both dry and wet applications, making it an excellent canvas for your watercolor, pen and ink, marker, pencil, charcoal, and pastel masterpieces.
One of the key features of this drawing paper is its exceptional erasability. Say goodbye to smudgy mistakes as you can easily correct your work while maintaining the paper’s integrity. Another advantage is that the paper doesn’t bleed-through or feather even when used with permanent ink markers.
The paper’s robust 90 lb. weight provides a sturdy foundation for your creations, giving you the assurance that your artwork will be well-preserved. It’s also a budget-friendly choice for watercolor lovers, as it effectively holds up to a light wash, creating a cost-effective solution for colorful prototypes.
In conclusion, Borden & Riley’s 90 lb. drawing paper is a top-notch choice for artists of all levels, offering a reliable and professional platform for showcasing your artistic flair. The product’s durability, versatility, and erasability make it a must-try for anyone seeking the perfect blend of style and practicality in their art supplies.
Daler-Rowney 45 GSM A4 80 Sheet Layout Pad
In my quest for a sustainable alternative to plain sketchbooks, I stumbled upon the Daler-Rowney 45 GSM A4 80 Sheets Series A Layout Pad. This gorgeous, eco-friendly layout pad, part of Daler Rowney’s Graphic Series, arrived in a sleek and minimalistic packaging, ready to unleash my creativity.
The 80 sheets of 45 gsm (grams per square meter) lightweight layout paper are perfect for sketching initial designs without the heft of traditional sketchbooks. I found the paper to be a delight to work with, offering a smooth surface that is just right for drafting intricate designs. The fact that it is internally sized with synthetic sizing adds to its durability and prevents bleeding when working with various pens and inks.
One of the most impressive features of this layout pad is its sustainability. The paper is sustainably manufactured, making it a guilt-free choice for artists and students alike. The A4 size is perfect for smaller projects and easily fits into a bag or backpack, making it ideal for on-the-go sketching.
While using this layout pad, I couldn’t help but notice the occasional issue with the gummed adhesive not sticking as well as I would have liked, causing a few sheets to release prematurely. Nevertheless, this tiny setback did not detract from the overall quality and ease of use of the pad.
In conclusion, the Daler-Rowney 45 GSM A4 80 Sheets Series A Layout Pad is a fantastic choice for anyone in search of a sustainable, lightweight, and versatile layout pad. Its superior quality, combined with its affordability, makes it a worthwhile investment for both students and professionals alike.
Legion Stonehenge 18" x 24" Drawing Paper Pad
The Legion Stonehenge Drawing Paper Pad is a versatile and high-quality choice for artists seeking archival qualities at an affordable price. This paper, made in the USA using 100% cotton, boasts a smooth, flawless vellum surface with a mild tooth and fine, even grain. Its slight tooth provides a consistent texture for all types of drawing and sketching media, while its acid-free nature ensures long-lasting vibrancy. With 15 sheets offered in an 18-by-24-inch pad, the paper is perfect for those looking for a durable and versatile option for their artistic endeavors.
Using this paper results in a luxurious drawing experience, as artists can layer their media without worrying about buckling or fraying. This makes Stonehenge a top choice for those working with colored pencils, watercolors, or other delicate mediums. Its consistent quality and toothy texture mean that artists can rely on a consistent surface for their creations, resulting in a professional and polished final product.
While some users have encountered issues with the paper’s binding or packaging, the overall response to the Legion Stonehenge Drawing Paper Pad has been overwhelmingly positive. The paper’s affordability and high-quality characteristics are widely recognized and appreciated by artists in many different fields and skill levels. As a result, many customers have reported that they would purchase this product again, making it a reliable and reliable option for a wide range of artistic projects.
Canson Ingres Moonstone Drawing Paper — 19" x 25
It’s been a while since I started using Canson Ingres Drawing Paper, and I must say, it has been a game-changer for my art projects. The 19-inch by 25-inch sheet is just the right size for my canvas, and the Moonstone color adds an elegant touch to my drawings.
One of the things I love about this paper is its versatility. It works effortlessly with charcoal, pencil, and pastel, giving me the most stunning results. The paper is also light-resistant, mold-resistant, and acid-free, which I appreciate as it ensures my artwork will last for years to come.
However, there’s one downside — the paper is a bit thin for my liking. It doesn’t hold as many layers as I would like, and it can be a bit tricky when I erase mistakes. But overall, this paper’s quality makes it worth the occasional inconvenience.
In conclusion, Canson Ingres Drawing Paper is an excellent addition to any artist’s toolkit. Its versatility and stunning results make it a must-try for those seeking a high-quality paper for their projects.
Medium-Weight, Acid-Free, Recycled Drawing Paper
Pronounced “Pa-con, “ this drawing paper brand may sound unfamiliar to many, yet its PAC4728 model is quite popular among art enthusiasts. With an impressive tooth and retention, it boasts a medium-weight design that works wonders with dry media like pencils and charcoal. Despite not having any user reviews, the paper’s high-quality construction and acid-free materials are well-appreciated for preserving brightness.
Furthermore, the paper is both recycled and process-chlorine free, proving it’s not just an excellent art companion but also a responsible choice for the environment.
Kids Drawing Paper Roll with Patterns
The AMind4U Kids Drawing Paper Roll is an impressive, 120-inch long roll of paper that comes with a variety of patterns for little ones to explore and develop their drawing skills. Perfect for children of all ages, this paper roll can be cut into smaller pieces and used as stickers, adding a touch of creativity to any space.
The high-quality material ensures that it’s both safe and fun for kids to use, helping to improve their hand-eye coordination and imagination. This drawing paper roll makes a fantastic gift for any young artist, sparking their interest in creating and enhancing their communication skills through interactive drawing.
Warm White Stonehenge Drawing Mini Pad for Artists
Stonehenge Drawing Paper is a versatile 100% cotton product that has gained popularity among various artists working in diverse media. Available in medium to lightweight variants such as 135gsm and 250gsm, these mini pads offer 15 sheets measuring 9.5 x 6.3cm, all of which bear warm white tones and a traditional feel. Buffered with calcium carbonate, this paper is suitable for handling multiple layers of color. It supports a wide range of media and techniques, including watercolor, oil pastels, and colored pencils.
One of the main benefits of this drawing paper is its acid- and chlorine-free nature. This makes it an ideal choice for creating long-lasting artworks that can be proudly displayed without fear of paper deterioration. Additionally, its buffering with calcium carbonate provides extra durability and resistance to fading. Moreover, being pH neutral, this paper is less likely to cause issues with prints or other artworks.
However, as mentioned in the reviews, some users have reported that the binding of these mini pads has been inconsistent, with sheets being stuck together. Other complaints include creased or bent edges, which could make it challenging to work with, especially for small-scale projects.
Overall, Stonehenge Drawing Paper excels in its functionality, versatility, and durability. It appeals to a wide range of artists and showcases a traditional feel in its warm white tones. Nonetheless, while it may surpass other acid-free drawing papers in its quality, it is essential to note its occasional binding issues and need for proper care during storage and handling to get the most out of this premium paper.
Seawhite A3 Heavyweight Drawing Paper Pads — Ideal for Painting, Sketching, and Technical Drawing
This handmade cartridge paper from Seawhite of Brighton is perfect for artists and those in need of high-quality drawing materials. With 25 sheets of 220gsm All-Media Cartridge Paper, it is versatile and ideal for a variety of mediums, including sketching, drawing, pastels, paint, and more. The acid-free paper is sized for extra wet strength, making it suitable for watercolor and even heavier wet-in-wet techniques.
The stiff 2mm greyboard backing adds durability, and the glued and tape-bound edges ensure the pad stays intact. With a relaxing, human tone, this product is a go-to for those looking for a versatile, heavyweight cartridge paper.
Easel Roll Drawing Paper: 18" x 200FT 50-IB White
When I first opened the roll of Easel Roll Drawing Paper, I was impressed by the sturdy sulphite material. It’s perfect for accepting both wet and dry media, which is ideal for my artistic experiments. The ease of dispensing the paper onto my standard easel is a true game-changer.
One small downside that stood out is the limited warranty period of just 30 days. However, the paper’s excellent performance and convenience more than make up for it. The 18" x 200' size of the paper is great for large-scale work, and the white color offers a clean canvas for any design. Overall, this drawing paper makes an excellent addition to any artist’s toolkit.
High quality Drawing Paper — Fade-resistant Art Paper, 50 lbs, Multicolor Designs
I recently tried out Fadeless Art Paper, a 50-lb, 18 x 24-inch art paper with ink-coated color on one side and superior fade-resistance. This paper is perfect for a wide range of projects like paper sculpture, bulletin board work, signs, posters, and backgrounds. The oversized sheets measure in at 18 inches by 24 inches, making it ideal for larger displays.
One of the biggest highlights of Fadeless Art Paper is its fade-resistance, ensuring a brighter and longer-lasting project. Plus, the smooth matte finish makes it great for mounting artwork, origami, and block printing. What’s even better is that this paper comes with three sheets each of 20 different colors, making it perfect for scrapbooking and creative activities.
In the past, I often used construction paper for bulletin board work, but the fraying and buckling really dampened the quality of the project. However, with Fadeless Art Paper, I found that the paper was much stronger, resulting in a more professional-looking display. The vibrant colors were also an added bonus!
Despite its many advantages, Fadeless Art Paper did have a few downsides. I noticed that the colors weren’t as diverse as I had hoped, with similar shades not being quite different enough. This meant that in some cases, I had to order more sheets than I desired to get the specific shade I was looking for.
Additionally, while there is no denying the great value this paper offers, some users have reported that it can be brittle. This has led to the need for more careful handling during the cutting and folding process.
Overall, my experience with Fadeless Art Paper has been quite positive, with the bright, versatile paper making my projects stand out. Though there have been a few drawbacks, like color limitations and brittleness, these have been outweighed by the paper’s excellent fade-resistance and vibrant colors. I definitely see myself using it for future projects!
Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to drawing paper, there are several important features and considerations to keep in mind. This buyer’s guide aims to provide you with general advice and information about various aspects of drawing paper that can help you make an informed purchasing decision.
Size of Drawing Paper
Drawing paper comes in various sizes, ranging from small 5x7-inch sheets to large 24x36-inch sheets. Some common drawing paper sizes include 9x12-inch, 11x14-inch, and 18x24-inch. Consider the size of the drawing you plan to create or the canvas you’ll be working on. Larger sheets may offer more space, but they can be more expensive and less portable.
Paper Type and Material
Drawing paper can be made from different materials, like bond paper, rag paper, or cotton paper. Bond paper is coated with chalk or clay, while rag paper is made from cotton rags. Cotton paper is often used for fine art or calligraphy, as it offers better resilience and doesn’t crack when wet. Choose the type of paper that best suits your drawing preferences and requirements.
Paper Weight and Resistance to Smudging
Drawing paper comes in various weight ranges, typically between 50 and 130 pounds. Heavier paper tends to be more durable and less prone to tearing. Additionally, consider the paper’s resistance to smudging, especially if you’ll be using a mechanical pencil or erasable pens. Certain drawing papers are designed to withstand smudging, while others may require additional pencils or tools to prevent smudge marks.
Artistic Properties
Drawing paper can have specific artistic properties like non-bleed or lightfast features. Non-bleed paper ensures your coloring or sketching won’t bleed through the sheet. Lightfast paper can help prevent fading or discoloration when exposed to light over time. Consider the artistic properties that are important to you and ensure the drawing paper you choose meets those requirements.
FAQ
What is drawing paper?
Drawing paper is a type of paper specifically designed for artists and illustrators. It comes in various sizes, grades, and finishes, allowing you to choose the perfect paper for your specific drawing needs. Some popular types of drawing paper include sketchbooks, watercolor paper, and bristol paper.
Drawing paper is usually made from cotton or wood pulp, ensuring that it is durable and capable of holding a wide range of pencil, ink, and paint marks. It is typically acid-free, which means it will not yellow or deteriorate over time, preserving your artwork for the long term. The paper’s surface may be smooth or textured, depending on the type and intended use, and it may be available in a variety of colors or pre-printed with grid lines for guidelines.
What are the different types of drawing paper?
There are several types of drawing paper available, each with its own unique characteristics and intended uses. Some popular types include sketchbooks, which are bound collections of papers with blank pages that can be used for various drawing techniques; watercolor paper, which is heavier and more absorbent, allowing for blending and wet techniques; and bristol paper, which is thick and durable, perfect for working with charcoal or pastels.
Other types of drawing paper include layout paper, which is used for initial planning and sketching; vellum, which is a translucent paper great for tracing or light drawing; and hot press paper, which has a smooth finish that is ideal for detailed pencil or ink work. The choice of paper depends on the artist’s preferred medium, drawing style, and intended application.
What is the best drawing paper for pencil sketching?
The best drawing paper for pencil sketching is usually a 60-pound weight cold-pressed paper. This paper has a slightly textured surface that can help prevent smudging, while also providing excellent tonal range for light to heavy pencil marks. Additionally, using paper with a slight tooth can help the pencil marks grip the surface and create a more textured appearance, which is desirable in many pencil drawings.
You might also consider using a pencil-specific sketchbook, which often includes higher quality paper that is designed to handle a variety of pencil techniques. It is worth considering the thickness of the paper as well, as 90-pound or 100-pound paper will provide more resistance to smudging and allow for longer drawing sessions without the need for frequent paper changes.
What is the best drawing paper for watercolors?
The best drawing paper for watercolors is a 140-pound cold-pressed or hot-pressed paper. Cold-pressed paper has a slightly textured surface that helps to prevent the water from spreading too quickly, while hot-pressed paper has a smoother surface that allows for more precise and detailed brushwork. Both types of paper are highly absorbent, which means they can handle a lot of water without becoming overly saturated or warped.
Watercolor paper typically comes in sheets that are pre-cut to standard sizes, such as 9x12 inches or 15x11 inches. However, you can also purchase watercolor sketchbooks, which offer the same level of quality and are convenient for on-the-go sketching or painting sessions. Many artists find that using a higher quality watercolor paper leads to better color blending and a more professional-looking final product.
What is the difference between cold-pressed and hot-pressed drawing paper?
The difference between cold-pressed and hot-pressed drawing paper lies in their surface textures. Cold-pressed paper has a slightly textured surface, which can help to prevent smudging and provide a subtle, toothy texture that adds depth and character to your drawings. This type of paper is ideal for sketching, pencil work, and dry mediums.
Hot-pressed paper, on the other hand, has a smoother surface that is perfect for more precise and detailed work, particularly with ink, watercolor, or other wet mediums. The smoother surface helps to reduce the appearance of brush strokes and allows for better color blending and subtle shading. This type of paper is often preferred by artists working with finer point pens, brushes, and other detailed tools.
How do I choose the right drawing paper for my needs?
Choosing the right drawing paper for your needs depends on several factors, including the size of your artwork, the medium you plan to use, and your personal artistic preferences. Some things to consider when selecting drawing paper include the type of paper (e. g. , sketchbook, watercolor paper, or bristol paper), the weight and thickness of the paper, the texture of the surface, and whether the paper is acid-free and suitable for long-term storage of your artwork.
It’s also important to think about the size of your artwork, as different papers come in various sizes to accommodate different drawing styles and projects. Be sure to consider the paper’s weight, as lighter paper will require more frequent paper changes, while heavier paper may be more durable and resistant to smudging. Additionally, consider the type of medium you plan to use, as certain papers are better suited for specific drawing techniques. Ultimately, the right drawing paper will depend on your own artistic requirements and preferences.
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