Watercolor painting is a beautiful and expressive art form that requires the right materials to achieve the desired effect. One of the most important materials is the paper used for painting. Watercolor paper comes in different types, and choosing the right one can be a daunting task, especially if you’re on a budget. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best budget watercolor paper options available on the market.
When it comes to watercolor paper, there are three main types: hot-pressed, cold-pressed, and rough. Hot-pressed paper is smooth and ideal for detailed work, while cold-pressed paper has a slightly textured surface that gives paintings a more organic look. Rough paper has the most texture, making it suitable for creating a more textured and expressive painting.
When choosing the best budget watercolor paper, it’s important to consider the weight of the paper. The weight of the paper refers to how thick and sturdy it is. A heavier paper will be able to handle more water and pigment without buckling or warping.
In this article, we’ll be reviewing some of the best budget watercolor papers available, taking into consideration factors such as weight, texture, and affordability. With our recommendations, you’ll be able to find the best paper for your watercolor painting needs without breaking the bank.
Best Budget Watercolor Paper
If you’re an artist on a budget, finding affordable yet high-quality watercolor paper can be a challenge. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best budget watercolor paper options on Amazon. These papers are perfect for practicing new techniques or creating beautiful watercolor paintings without breaking the bank. Check out our top picks below.
Sadaunbe Watercolor Paper
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly watercolor paper, the Sadaunbe Watercolor Paper is a great option.
Pros
- Small size makes it perfect for kids, students, and beginners
- Made from Cold Press paper, which is thick and durable
- Can be used with a variety of mediums including pencils, ink, crayons, and pastels
Cons
- Only comes in one size (5 x 7 inches)
- Limited number of sheets (60)
- Not suitable for professional artists
This watercolor paper is perfect for those who are just starting out with watercolor painting. The small size makes it easy to handle and the Cold Press paper is thick and durable, making it resistant to wear and tear.
While the limited number of sheets may be a downside for some, it’s a great way to try out the product without committing to a larger pack.
Overall, the Sadaunbe Watercolor Paper is a great option for those who are looking for a budget-friendly option for their watercolor painting needs.
Prudiut Watercolor Paper Pad
If you’re looking for an affordable watercolor paper pad, the Prudiut Watercolor Paper Pad might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The cotton material of this watercolor paper pad allows for good water absorption, even pigment distribution, and durability.
- With 30 sheets in the pad, you’ll have plenty of paper to work with.
- The single-sided glued binding makes it easy to flip and separate sheets, providing convenience and speed.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the paper warps and bends easily.
- The paper may not be suitable for advanced artists who require higher quality paper.
- The size of the paper may not be ideal for larger paintings.
This watercolor paper pad is designed with cold press and is suitable for kids, students, beginners, or amateurs. It can be used for creating various types of art, such as wedding invitations, holiday cards, and more. The cotton material of the paper allows for even pigment distribution, and the single-sided glued binding makes it easy to use. However, some users have reported that the paper warps and bends easily, and it may not be suitable for advanced artists who require higher quality paper. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable option for your watercolor needs, the Prudiut Watercolor Paper Pad might be worth considering.
Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly watercolor paper that can handle a variety of techniques, the Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is a great option.
Pros
- The cold press textured paper is versatile and works well with watercolor, acrylic, pen & ink, marker, colored pencil, pencil, charcoal, and pastel.
- The durable surface can withstand repeated washes, making it a great choice for experimenting and practicing.
- The acid-free paper has a natural white color and texture, ensuring your colors look vibrant and true to life.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the paper can buckle or warp when wet, especially if you use a lot of water.
- The paper may not be as smooth as some higher-end watercolor papers, which could make it more difficult to achieve certain effects.
- While the paper is heavyweight, it may not be as thick as some other options on the market.
Overall, if you’re just starting out with watercolors or looking for an affordable option for practicing and experimenting, the Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is definitely worth considering. Its versatility and durability make it a great choice for artists of all skill levels.
ARTISTO Watercolor Pads 9×12”, Pack of 2 (60 Sheets), Glue Bound, Acid-Free Paper, 140lb (300gsm), Perfect for Most Wet & Dry Media, Ideal for Beginners, Artists & Professionals
If you are looking for a budget-friendly watercolor paper, the ARTISTO Watercolor Pads are definitely worth considering. With high-quality paper that works excellently with all wet and dry media, this set is perfect for both professionals and beginners.
Pros
- The paper is acid-free, pH neutral, and can withstand scraping, erasing, and repeated washes, making it highly suitable for better paint performance and durability.
- Each sheet measures 9×12 inches, providing ample space for your artworks.
- The glue-bound feature of each sheet creates a smooth edge that, when removed, doesn’t cause damage to your painting.
Cons
- Some users may find the grain more prominent than other watercolor papers, which can affect the overall texture of the artwork.
- Although the paper is thick, it still needs to be taped down to avoid buckling.
- The paper may not be suitable for advanced artists who are looking for a more premium quality paper.
The ARTISTO Watercolor Pads are perfect for those who are just starting with watercolor painting or for those who are looking for a budget-friendly alternative to premium quality papers. The high-quality paper, ample space, and glue-bound feature make it a great choice for most wet and dry media.
LEATHER VILLAGE Watercolor Paper
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly watercolor paper that can also handle other mediums, the LEATHER VILLAGE Watercolor Paper is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Convenient and vintage deckle edge adds character to your artwork
- Thick and durable paper that can handle a variety of mediums
- Acid-free sheets help preserve the vibrancy of your artwork
Cons
- May be too lightweight for heavy watercolor applications
- Some users have experienced bleeding with certain mediums
- Some users have received damaged or defective paper in their orders
This handmade paper is made from 100% virgin cotton, ensuring that it will last for generations. The vintage toned antique/vintage 7″x11″ paper comes in a pack of 50 sheets and is available in five different sizes to fit your specific needs. The thick 150 GSM paper is bleedproof and can be used for dry and wet mediums, including watercolor, oil pastel, pencil color, charcoal, and pen and ink drawings.
While some users have experienced bleeding with certain mediums, others have found that the paper takes ink very well and is great for marbling. The deckle edge adds a unique touch to your artwork and makes for a great keepsake if you take the time to fill it up with nice drawings.
Overall, the LEATHER VILLAGE Watercolor Paper is a great option for artists on a budget who want a versatile paper that can handle a variety of mediums. Just be aware of the potential for bleeding with certain applications and make sure to check your paper upon receipt to ensure that it is not damaged or defective.
U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Paper
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for your watercolor projects, the U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Paper is worth checking out.
Pros
- The heavyweight, cold-pressed textured surface of the paper is perfect for mastering watercolor techniques.
- The paper is versatile and durable, making it suitable for wet, dry, and mixed media techniques.
- The neutral pH and acid-free nature of the paper make it a safe option for all skill levels of artists.
Cons
- The paper may buckle with prolonged water use.
- The natural white color of the paper may appear grey to some users.
- The paper may be too thin for some users’ preferences.
This paper is an excellent choice for aspiring artists, art students, and professional artists who are looking for a reliable, budget-friendly option for their watercolor projects. The paper is also suitable for use with other mediums such as acrylics, colored pencils, graphite pencils, pens, markers, charcoal, pastels, and more.
The U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Paper comes in a pack of two 9″ x 12″ pads, each with 24 sheets of 90-pound (190gsm) paper. The paper is cold-pressed and has a slightly textured surface that is perfect for creating beautiful watercolor paintings. The paper is also acid-free and has a neutral pH, making it safe for artists of all skill levels to use.
Overall, the U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Paper is a great option for those who are looking for a budget-friendly, versatile, and reliable option for their watercolor projects.
Art-n-Fly Watercolor Sketchpad Mini Book
If you are looking for budget-friendly watercolor paper that is durable and versatile, the Art-n-Fly Watercolor Sketchpad Mini Book is worth considering.
Pros
- The acid-free and pH neutral paper ensures your watercolor creations won’t fade or deteriorate over time.
- The heavy 140lb or 300gsm sheets are perfect for all wet on dry and wet on wet watercolor techniques, as well as gouache, acrylic painting, watercolor brush pens, and even charcoal and graphite.
- The cold-pressed texture of the paper makes it ideal for large areas of wash and fine details, without bleeding through or warping.
Cons
- The paper is not made of cotton, so it may not be suitable for completed pieces.
- The perforated edges of the pages may not be desirable for some artists.
- The mini book size may not be large enough for some artists.
If you are a beginner or a casual artist looking for a reliable and affordable watercolor paper, the Art-n-Fly Watercolor Sketchpad Mini Book is a good choice. The acid-free and pH neutral paper ensures your watercolor paintings will last for years, and the heavy 140lb or 300gsm sheets are perfect for various techniques. The cold-pressed texture of the paper also adds depth and dimension to your artwork. However, if you are looking for a paper made of cotton or a larger size, this may not be the best option for you.
Wanderings Handmade Blank White Deckle Edge Paper
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly watercolor paper that is eco-friendly and handmade by artisans, Wanderings Handmade Blank White Deckle Edge Paper is a great option.
Pros
- Handmade by artisans using traditional practices
- Tree-free, acid-free, and chemical-free
- Supports most media including watercolor, acrylic, gouache, ink, gel pen, marker, pencil, and charcoal
Cons
- May not dry perfectly flat when used with watercolors
- Some sheets may have imperfections
- Printer settings and tolerances may vary, so try with a sample first
Wanderings Handmade Blank White Deckle Edge Paper is a great alternative to traditional watercolor paper or writing paper. The paper sheets are made using traditional practices passed through generations dating back to 14th century India. The paper is dried in the sun, giving it a gorgeous textured appearance that is a timeless and inspiring alternative to ordinary paper. The paper may also be referred to as rag paper, cotton rag paper, raw edge, rough edge, or torn edge.
The eco-friendly deckled edge hand-made papers are conscientiously and sustainably sourced using 100% recycled cotton with remnants from the local garment industry. The paper is archival quality for long-term preservation, making it perfect for crafts, doodling, letters, artwork, or maps for hidden treasures.
Wanderings Handmade Blank White Deckle Edge Paper supports most media including watercolor, acrylic, gouache, ink, gel pen, marker, pencil, and charcoal. The paper is printer-friendly on home printers when fed one sheet at a time in the manual feed tray of the printer. However, printer settings and tolerances vary, so it’s best to try with a sample first.
Overall, Wanderings Handmade Blank White Deckle Edge Paper is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly watercolor paper that is eco-friendly and handmade by artisans.
MyArtscape Graphite Transfer Paper
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use transfer paper for your art projects, MyArtscape Graphite Transfer Paper might just be what you need.
Pros
- With 20 sheets of A4 size high-grade transfer papers, you’ll have plenty to work with for a while.
- The graphite base of the paper makes it easy to erase with a kneaded eraser, making it more convenient than ink-based carbon paper.
- You can reuse each sheet multiple times, saving you money in the long run.
Cons
- The paper is black, which may not be suitable for all projects.
- Some users have reported that the paper can arrive folded or crumpled, making it difficult to use.
- You may need to press hard to get the transfer, which could result in unwanted marks.
MyArtscape Graphite Transfer Paper is perfect for tracing on papers, watercolor paintings, canvas, wood, and more. The smudge-free copy paper makes tracing a breeze, and the 100% satisfaction guarantee ensures that you’ll be happy with your purchase.
In summary, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly transfer paper that is easy to use and can be reused multiple times, MyArtscape Graphite Transfer Paper is definitely worth considering.
Pacon UCreate Watercolor Paper
If you’re looking for budget-friendly watercolor paper, the Pacon UCreate Watercolor Paper is a great option for students and classrooms.
Pros
- Quality paper with a smooth uniform finish on front and back
- Sturdy sheets are versatile and ideal for both wet and mixed media techniques
- Economical large 250 count pack of 9″ x 12″ sheets is perfect for classrooms and groups
Cons
- Not suitable for professional artists or advanced techniques
- Warps easily when used with a lot of water
- Not as thick as other watercolor papers
This watercolor paper is perfect for young artists who want to experiment with new techniques. The smooth uniform finish on both sides of the paper allows for versatility in wet and mixed media techniques. The large 250 count pack of 9″ x 12″ sheets is an economical way to provide enough sheets for the whole classroom, daycare, and more.
However, this paper may not be suitable for professional artists or advanced techniques as it is not as thick as other watercolor papers. It also warps easily when used with a lot of water. Despite these cons, the Pacon UCreate Watercolor Paper is a great option for students and classrooms who want to explore and learn new techniques in a budget-friendly way.
PaperPopular Watercolor Paper Block
If you’re looking for an affordable watercolor paper block that can handle wet, dry, and mixed media painting, the PaperPopular Watercolor Paper Block might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The paper is thick and made of 100% cotton, making it sturdy and durable.
- The cold-pressed finish gives a nice texture to the paper, allowing for better color absorption and blending.
- The binding of the paper block is strong, preventing the paper from falling apart or tearing easily.
Cons
- Some reviewers noted that the paper is not as high quality as more expensive brands like Arches or Waterford.
- The paper may not hold up as well with multiple layers or washes, causing buckling or warping.
- A few reviewers had issues with the paper causing “cauliflower” effects when going over brushstrokes multiple times.
Overall, if you’re a beginner or looking for an affordable option for watercolor paper, the PaperPopular Watercolor Paper Block might be worth considering. However, if you’re a professional artist or looking for higher quality paper, you may want to invest in a more expensive brand.
Phinus Watercolor Paper
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly watercolor paper that doesn’t compromise on quality, Phinus Watercolor Paper is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Made of 300gsm cotton pulp, this watercolor paper is thick and durable, with good absorbency, anti-pilling, acid-free, and abrasion-resistant properties that ensure it can be kept for a long time. It’s suitable for beginners and painters’ practice use.
- Each sheet measures approximately 12.8 x 17.8 cm / 5 x 7 inches, and the cold-pressed surface is suitable for a wide range of painting techniques, including direct, wet, and dry painting. The Watercolor Pad can satisfy artists’ needs for different styles and effects.
- The cold-pressed process with a medium rough surface provides excellent pigment adhesion and diffusion. During the painting process, the artist can set up unusual textures and effects such as water patterns, mottling, blurring, etc. Watercolor paper by controlling the amount of pigment and the painting method to enhance the layering and expressiveness of the image.
Cons
- Some users may find the texture of the paper to be rougher than other cold-pressed paper, which may not be to everyone’s liking.
- The paper may not hold up as well when heavily saturated with water, which could be a drawback for some artists.
- The package contains 60 sheets of 5×7 watercolor paper, which may not be enough for those who require a larger quantity.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly watercolor paper that offers excellent quality and versatility, Phinus Watercolor Paper is definitely worth considering. Its thick, durable, and acid-free properties make it an excellent choice for beginners and painters’ practice use. The cold-pressed surface provides excellent pigment adhesion and diffusion, allowing artists to create unique textures and effects. However, the paper’s rough texture may not be to everyone’s liking, and it may not hold up as well when heavily saturated with water. Overall, Phinus Watercolor Paper is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality.
TaoBary Watercolor Paper
If you’re looking for budget-friendly watercolor paper, TaoBary’s 60-pack round watercolor paper is a good option to consider.
Pros
- Plentiful quantity for usage
- Cold pressed watercolor paper with good texture
- Creative round watercolor paper for a unique painting experience
Cons
- Not suitable for wet-on-wet techniques
- Paint sits on top of the paper, not absorbed
- Not suitable for professional artists
TaoBary’s watercolor paper is an excellent option for beginners and those on a budget. With 60 sheets in each pack, you’ll have ample amounts of paper to satisfy your daily drawing needs and DIY requirements. The cold-pressed watercolor sketchbook paper has a good texture, neither too rough nor too smooth, and is stable and resistant to color bleeding, making it suitable for different media such as wet and dry. These watercolor papers can greatly show a good visual experience, and their creative round design allows you to start painting from any angle, providing a unique painting experience.
While the paper is suitable for pencils, inks, crayons, and more, it’s not suitable for wet-on-wet techniques, and the paint sits on top of the paper rather than being absorbed. This makes it less suitable for professional artists who require more advanced watercolor paper. However, for beginners and hobbyists, this is an excellent option that won’t break the bank.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly watercolor paper option, TaoBary’s 60-pack round watercolor paper is a good choice to consider.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best budget watercolor paper, there are a few features that you should consider. By keeping these features in mind, you can make an informed decision that will help you achieve the best results for your artwork.
Weight
The weight of the paper is an important factor to consider. Watercolor paper is typically sold by weight, with heavier paper being more expensive. However, heavier paper also tends to be more durable and less likely to buckle or warp when wet. If you plan to use a lot of water in your painting, it’s best to choose a heavier weight paper.
Texture
The texture of the paper can also affect the final look of your painting. Watercolor paper comes in three main textures: hot-pressed, cold-pressed, and rough. Hot-pressed paper has a smooth surface and is ideal for detailed work, while cold-pressed paper has a slightly rougher texture that is better for creating texture and depth. Rough paper has a very textured surface that can create interesting effects, but may not be suitable for all types of paintings.
Acid-Free
Acid-free paper is important for preserving your artwork over time. Acidic paper can cause your painting to yellow and deteriorate over time. Look for paper that is labeled as acid-free or pH-neutral to ensure that your artwork will last for years to come.
Price
Price is always a consideration when choosing any art supply. While it’s important to stay within your budget, it’s also important to remember that the quality of the paper can affect the final result of your painting. Look for paper that offers a good balance of quality and affordability.
In summary, when choosing the best budget watercolor paper, consider the weight, texture, acid-free properties, and price to make an informed decision that will help you achieve the best results for your artwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top affordable watercolor paper options for beginners?
There are several affordable watercolor paper options available for beginners. Some of the top budget-friendly options include Canson XL Watercolor Paper, Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper, and Fabriano Studio Watercolor Paper. These papers are all great choices for beginners as they are easy to work with and offer good quality at an affordable price.
How does Fabriano compare to other budget-friendly watercolor paper brands?
Fabriano Studio Watercolor Paper is a popular choice among artists due to its affordability and quality. Compared to other budget-friendly brands, Fabriano paper is known for its durability and ability to handle multiple washes without buckling. It is a great option for both beginners and professionals alike.
What should I look for in watercolor paper as a beginner artist?
As a beginner artist, it is important to look for watercolor paper that is easy to work with and forgiving. Look for paper that is designed specifically for watercolor painting and has a weight of at least 140lb. It is also important to consider the texture of the paper, as this can affect the way the paint interacts with the surface.
Which budget watercolor paper is best for professional-level artwork?
While budget-friendly watercolor papers are great for beginners and hobbyists, they may not offer the same level of quality as more expensive options. However, there are some budget-friendly papers that can produce professional-level artwork. Some of the top options include Arches Watercolor Paper, Fabriano Artistico Watercolor Paper, and Saunders Waterford Watercolor Paper.
What are the differences between Canson and Strathmore watercolor papers?
Canson and Strathmore are both popular brands of watercolor paper. While they are similar in many ways, there are some differences to consider. Canson paper is known for its smooth surface, making it a good choice for detailed work. Strathmore paper, on the other hand, has a slightly rougher texture, which can add depth and texture to your paintings.
How can I purchase high-quality watercolor paper without overspending?
One way to purchase high-quality watercolor paper without overspending is to look for sales and discounts. Many art supply stores offer discounts on paper throughout the year, so keep an eye out for these deals. Another option is to purchase paper in bulk, as this can often lead to cost savings. Finally, consider purchasing paper from a less well-known brand, as these options can often be just as good as more expensive brands.
