If you’re a watercolor artist, you know that the quality of your artwork is heavily influenced by the type of paper you use. That’s where watercolor paper pads come in handy. These pads are specifically designed to absorb water and pigment, allowing you to create beautiful and vibrant watercolor paintings.
When looking for the best watercolor pad, there are a few things you should keep in mind. The first is the weight of the paper. Watercolor paper is typically available in three weights: 90lb, 140lb, and 300lb. The weight refers to the thickness of the paper, with 300lb being the thickest and most durable. The weight you choose will depend on your personal preference and the type of artwork you create.
Another important factor to consider is the texture of the paper. Watercolor paper comes in three textures: hot-pressed, cold-pressed, and rough. Hot-pressed paper is the smoothest and is ideal for detailed work, while cold-pressed paper has a medium texture and is great for a variety of painting techniques. Rough paper has the most texture and is ideal for creating a more organic and natural look.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the best watercolor pads on the market and help you find the perfect one for your needs.
Best Watercolor Pads
If you’re a watercolor enthusiast, you know that finding the right paper can make all the difference in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional artist, having a high-quality watercolor pad can greatly enhance your painting experience. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best watercolor pads on Amazon to help you find the perfect one for your needs. From size and texture to durability and value, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best watercolor pads.
Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile watercolor pad, the Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The cold press textured paper provides a durable surface that can withstand repeated washes, making it suitable for use with a variety of mediums including watercolor, acrylic, pen & ink, marker, colored pencil, pencil, charcoal, and pastel.
- The natural white color and texture of the paper adds depth and dimension to your artwork.
- The foldover binding keeps your pages securely in place while you work, and allows for easy removal of finished pieces.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the paper can buckle or warp when heavily saturated with water or paint.
- The paper may not be suitable for professional-level work, as it is a student-grade paper.
- The 30-sheet pad may not last as long as larger or more expensive pads.
The Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is an affordable and reliable option for artists of all skill levels. The cold press textured paper and natural white color provide a versatile surface for a variety of mediums, while the foldover binding keeps your pages secure. However, some users have reported issues with buckling or warping when heavily saturated, and the paper may not be suitable for professional-level work. Overall, the Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is a great choice for those looking for an affordable and versatile watercolor pad.
Amazon Basics Watercolor Pad
If you are looking for an affordable watercolor pad that can cater to all your painting needs, the Amazon Basics Watercolor Pad is a great option.
Pros
- The cold-press textural surface is perfect for a variety of media, including watercolor, ink, pencil, charcoal, pastel, and more.
- The heavy-weight, acid-free construction ensures archival longevity of your artwork.
- The true-to-size sheets can be easily removed from the pad, making it convenient to work with.
Cons
- The paper may warp slightly when used with wet media, but it is not a deal-breaker.
- The pad cover may not be as sturdy as some other high-end options.
- The paper may not be suitable for advanced artists who require a higher quality paper.
The Amazon Basics Watercolor Pad is an excellent choice for amateur, professional, and student artists who are looking for an affordable yet high-quality watercolor pad. The cold-press textural surface of the paper allows for a wide range of media to be used, while the heavy-weight, acid-free construction ensures that your artwork will last for years to come. The true-to-size sheets can be easily removed from the pad, and the heavy chipboard backing provides additional support while you work.
The only minor drawbacks of this product are that the paper may warp slightly when used with wet media, and the pad cover may not be as sturdy as some other high-end options. However, these issues are not significant enough to detract from the overall value of the product.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a reliable and affordable watercolor pad that can cater to all your painting needs, the Amazon Basics Watercolor Pad is definitely worth considering.
Prudiut Watercolor Paper Pad
If you’re looking for an affordable watercolor paper pad that’s great for beginners or anyone who wants to experiment with different techniques, the Prudiut Watercolor Paper Pad is worth considering.
Pros
- The pad comes with 30 sheets of 140 lb/300gsm cotton paper, which is thick enough to handle multiple layers of paint without warping or buckling.
- The cold-pressed texture of the paper provides a nice balance between absorbency and smoothness, making it suitable for a wide range of painting styles.
- The single-sided glued binding allows you to easily tear off sheets without damaging the rest of the pad, which is convenient for both travel and studio use.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the paper doesn’t handle water as well as more expensive brands, and that the colors can appear dull or muddy.
- The size of the pad (8.3×5.8 inches) may be too small for some artists who prefer larger sheets of paper.
- The pad doesn’t come with a cover or backing board, which can make it more difficult to transport and protect the paper.
If you’re a beginner or casual watercolor artist who wants to practice without breaking the bank, the Prudiut Watercolor Paper Pad is a solid choice. While it may not have the same level of quality as premium brands, it offers good value for the price and is versatile enough to handle a variety of techniques.
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’re looking for a high-quality watercolor pad that works well with all wet and dry media, the ARTISTO Watercolor Pads are a great choice. With 60 sheets per pack, you’ll have plenty of paper to work with, and the glue-bound edge ensures that each sheet is easy to remove without causing damage to your painting.
Pros
- The paper is acid-free and pH neutral, which helps to preserve your artwork over time.
- Each sheet measures 9×12 inches and has a weight of 140lb/300gsm, making it suitable for a wide range of artistic effects.
- The paper surface is durable and can withstand scraping, erasing, and repeated washes, making it highly suitable for better paint performance and durability.
Cons
- Some users have noted that the grain is more prominent than with other watercolor papers.
- The paper may still buckle when wet, so you may need to tape it down to avoid this issue.
- While the paper is suitable for most wet and dry media, some users have noted that it may not work as well with certain types of paint or markers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile watercolor pad that offers great quality at an affordable price, the ARTISTO Watercolor Pads are definitely worth considering. Whether you’re a professional artist or a beginner, this paper is sure to help you create beautiful and lasting works of art.
Rinrda Watercolor Pads 9x12in 2 Pack
If you’re looking for a great value watercolor pad, the Rinrda Watercolor Pads 9x12in 2 Pack is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 2 pack watercolor pad is made of 90% cotton, ensuring high quality paper.
- Each sheet measures 9×12 inches, providing ample space for your artwork.
- The paper weight of 140lb (300gsm) meets most requirements.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the paper is not as absorbent as they would like.
- The paper may buckle or warp when too much water is used.
- The binding may come apart after extended use.
The Rinrda Watercolor Pads 9x12in 2 Pack provides high-quality paper at an affordable price. The 90% cotton composition ensures that your artwork will look great, and the 140lb weight is suitable for most painting techniques.
One downside to this product is that some users have reported that the paper is not as absorbent as they would like, which can result in longer drying times. Additionally, the paper may buckle or warp when too much water is used, which can be frustrating for artists who are looking for a more stable surface.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Rinrda Watercolor Pads 9x12in 2 Pack is a great option for anyone looking to get started with watercolor painting or for those who want to experiment with different techniques. And with its affordable price point, it’s a great value for the money.
Artisto Watercolor Pads 5.5×8.5”, Pack of 3 (90 Sheets), Spiral Bound, Acid-Free Paper, 140lb (300gsm), Perfect for Most Wet & Dry Media, Ideal for Beginners, Artists & Professionals
If you are looking for a high-quality watercolor pad that can perform well with all wet and dry media, then the Artisto Watercolor Pads 5.5×8.5” Pack of 3 is a great option for you.
Pros
- The high-quality paper absorbs ink effectively without causing a drip or leak.
- The acid-free paper is pH neutral, making it suitable for all artists and artworks.
- The spiral-binding makes it smooth and easy to turn pages, and the micro-perforated pages can be easily removed without affecting your painting.
Cons
- Some users may find the paper to be too thick for their liking.
- The size of the pad may be too small for some artists.
- The paper may buckle slightly with heavier paints.
The Artisto Watercolor Pads are perfect for both professional and aspiring artists. The high-quality paper has been tested and proven to perform brilliantly with all wet and dry media, including watercolor, oil, gouache, colored pencils, charcoal, and pastels. The acid-free paper is pH neutral, making it suitable for all artists and artworks.
The spiral-binding makes it smooth and easy to turn pages, and the micro-perforated pages can be easily removed without affecting your painting. Each sheet measures 5.5×8.5 inches and is 140lb/300gsm, which contributes to helping artists create different artistic effects and styles.
The only downside to the Artisto Watercolor Pads is that some users may find the paper to be too thick for their liking. Additionally, the size of the pad may be too small for some artists, and the paper may buckle slightly with heavier paints.
Overall, the Artisto Watercolor Pads 5.5×8.5” Pack of 3 is a great option for artists looking for a high-quality watercolor pad that can perform well with all wet and dry media.
U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Pad
If you’re looking for a reliable watercolor pad that can handle a variety of media, the U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Pad is worth considering.
Pros
- The paper is thick and heavyweight, making it ideal for watercolor techniques.
- The cold-pressed texture of the paper provides a slightly textured surface that is great for mastering watercolor techniques.
- The acid-free, neutral pH paper is suitable for wet, dry, and mixed media and all skill levels of artists.
Cons
- Some reviewers have noted that the paper pills easily.
- Others have found that the paper is not water-resistant and disintegrates when water and paint are applied.
- While the price is reasonable, some reviewers have noted that the paper is not the highest quality and may not be suitable for serious projects.
If you’re an aspiring artist or art student looking for a versatile watercolor pad, the U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Pad is a great option. The thick, heavyweight paper is perfect for watercolor techniques, and the cold-pressed texture provides a slightly textured surface that is great for mastering watercolor techniques. The acid-free, neutral pH paper is suitable for wet, dry, and mixed media and all skill levels of artists.
However, some reviewers have noted that the paper pills easily and is not water-resistant, which may be a concern for some artists. Additionally, while the price is reasonable, some reviewers have noted that the paper is not the highest quality and may not be suitable for serious projects. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable watercolor pad that can handle a variety of media, the U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Pad is worth considering.
Arches Watercolor Paper Pad
If you’re looking for a high-quality watercolor pad, the Arches Watercolor Paper Pad is a great option.
Pros
- Superior quality paper that can handle multiple washes without buckling
- Acid-free and pH-neutral paper that preserves colors
- Available in different sizes and textures to suit your needs
Cons
- Expensive compared to other watercolor pads
- Some users find the paper too thick and difficult to work with
- Not suitable for beginners who are still learning watercolor techniques
This watercolor pad is made with 100% cotton and is suitable for professional artists who need a durable and reliable paper that can withstand frequent use. The paper is thick and can handle multiple washes without buckling, ensuring that your artwork looks neat and polished.
The acid-free and pH-neutral paper also preserves colors and prevents them from fading over time. The paper is available in different sizes and textures, so you can choose the one that suits your needs.
However, the Arches Watercolor Paper Pad is quite expensive compared to other watercolor pads, so it may not be suitable for artists on a budget. Some users also find the paper too thick and difficult to work with, especially if they are used to thinner paper. Additionally, this pad may not be suitable for beginners who are still learning watercolor techniques, as it requires some skill to use effectively.
Overall, if you’re a professional artist who needs a high-quality watercolor pad, the Arches Watercolor Paper Pad is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re on a budget or just starting out with watercolors, you may want to look for a more affordable and beginner-friendly option.
Canson Montval Watercolor Paper Pad
If you’re looking for a high-quality watercolor pad that can deliver consistent performance, the Canson Montval Watercolor Paper Pad is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The Montval Watercolor Paper Pad is made with cold press paper, which provides a desirable textured surface that can withstand erasing and scraping. It also allows for multiple layers of color and washes without warping.
- This paper pad is acid-free and archival quality, which means that your artwork will stand the test of time. The acid-free nature of the paper prevents yellowing or deterioration, ensuring that your creations retain their original colors and integrity.
- The Montval Watercolor Paper Pad is available in multiple sizes, including blocks, spiral bound pads, and glued pads in 4×6″, 5.5×8.5″, 6×9″, 9×12″, 10×15″, 12×16″, 15×20″, and 18×24″. It is also available as sheets and rolls.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the glue on the pad does not hold up well, which can result in the paper falling out of the pad.
- The Montval Watercolor Paper Pad is relatively expensive compared to other watercolor pads on the market.
- If you’re not a professional artist, you may not need the high-quality paper that this pad provides.
The Canson Montval Watercolor Paper Pad is an excellent choice for artists who demand consistent performance without compromise. The paper is designed to perform beautifully with all wet media, making it a versatile choice for both beginners and professional artists. Whether you’re working on a painting, a sketch, or a mixed media project, the Montval Watercolor Paper Pad is a reliable and high-quality choice.
Phinus Watercolor Paper Pad
If you’re looking for an affordable watercolor paper pad that provides good quality, then the Phinus Watercolor Paper Pad is a great option.
Pros
- The paper is made of high-quality 300gsm cotton pulp, which is thick, durable, and has good absorbency.
- The cold pressing process creates a medium rough surface for excellent pigment adhesion and diffusion, allowing for unique textures and effects.
- The 60 sheet pad of 5×7 inch paper is perfect for everyday use and a great value for the price.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the sizing, which can cause the watercolor to not adhere to the paper in some spots.
- The rougher texture may not be suitable for artists who prefer a smoother surface.
- The paper is not acid-free, which may cause it to yellow over time.
Overall, if you’re a beginner or looking for a budget-friendly option for your watercolor projects, the Phinus Watercolor Paper Pad is a great choice. The high-quality paper and cold pressing process allow for unique effects and the 60 sheet pad provides a great value. However, if you’re looking for acid-free paper or prefer a smoother surface, this may not be the best option for you.
Strathmore Watercolor Pad
If you’re looking for a watercolor pad that’s great for experimentation, the Strathmore Watercolor Pad is a solid choice.
Pros
- This paper is heavy-weight and cold press, making it ideal for watercolor experimentation.
- The pad includes 12 sheets of 140-pound weight paper, giving you plenty of space to create.
- Made in the USA, you can trust the quality of this artist paper.
Cons
- Some reviewers have noted that the price could be lower for the number of pages included in the pad.
- While the paper is thick and absorbent, a few reviewers have mentioned that it does not hold up as well to heavy washes as some other watercolor papers.
- A few reviewers have also noted that the paper may not be suitable for more advanced or professional watercolor work.
If you’re a beginner or intermediate watercolor artist looking to experiment with different techniques and styles, the Strathmore Watercolor Pad is a great choice. The heavy-weight and cold press paper make it ideal for watercolor experimentation, and the fact that it’s made in the USA gives you added peace of mind. While the price could be lower for the number of pages included, the quality of the paper is still worth it.
In terms of cons, some reviewers have noted that the paper may not hold up as well to heavy washes as some other watercolor papers. Additionally, a few reviewers have mentioned that the paper may not be suitable for more advanced or professional watercolor work. However, if you’re just starting out or looking to experiment, this watercolor pad is a solid choice.
Grabie Watercolor Paper Pad
If you are looking for a high-quality watercolor pad that can deliver excellent results, then the Grabie Watercolor Paper Pad is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Made of 100% cotton for better color absorption
- Two different surfaces for versatility
- Acid-free and designed to endure
Cons
- May not be suitable for beginners
- Only 15 sheets in total
- May be more expensive than other options
This watercolor pad is ideal for artists who want to experiment with different techniques and ideas. It features a smooth side and a textured side, which makes it perfect for a variety of watercolor techniques. The acid-free paper ensures that your artwork stays vibrant over time, while the glue binding allows for easy detachment and page turning.
The Grabie Watercolor Paper Pad is perfect for all artists, whether you are painting with watercolor paints, acrylic paints, gouache paints, markers, pencils, ink, or charcoal for painting, sketching, printmaking, or drawing. It is both of high quality and reasonable price.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a watercolor pad that can deliver excellent results and is versatile enough for a variety of techniques, then the Grabie Watercolor Paper Pad is an excellent choice.
Arches Watercolor Pad
If you’re looking for a high-quality watercolor pad, the Arches Watercolor Pad is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The long fibers in Arches natural white 100% cotton watercolor paper provide timeless beauty and an inimitable touch.
- Superior strength and resistance to scratching and erasing without tearing or linting.
- Gelatin sizing “to the core” makes blending, overlay, or paint removal easy, wet or dry.
Cons
- The paper is expensive compared to other options.
- The rough texture may not be suitable for all painting styles.
- The paper may buckle if too much water is used.
Arches Watercolor Pad is a premium quality paper that is pH-neutral with a harmonious natural grain and no optical brightening agents. Each sheet is easily removed from the edge-glued pad. The cylinder mold process distributes cotton fibers evenly to provide exceptional resistance to scratching and erasing without tearing or linting. The exclusive gelatin sizing “to the core” increases the luster and transparency of colors while preventing paints from penetrating into the paper.
The paper is available in multiple sizes and three revered textures: cold press, hot press, and rough. The cold-pressed watercolor paper slackens uniformly when wet for outstanding control. The paper is imported and contains one pad with 12 sheets, 300 GSM. The product dimensions are 12″L x 9″W, and the sheet size is 9 x 12 inches.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality watercolor pad, the Arches Watercolor Pad is an excellent choice. Its superior strength, exquisite quality, and functionality make it a favorite among artists worldwide. However, it is expensive compared to other options, and the rough texture may not be suitable for all painting styles.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best watercolor pad, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind as you make your selection:
Paper Quality
The quality of the paper is perhaps the most important factor to consider when choosing a watercolor pad. Look for paper that is thick and able to withstand the water and pigment without buckling or warping. The paper should also have a good texture that allows the paint to adhere well and produce a range of effects.
Size
Consider the size of the pad you need based on your intended use. If you plan to create small sketches or studies, a smaller pad may suffice. However, if you want to create larger works or more detailed pieces, a larger pad may be necessary.
Binding
The binding of the pad can also affect your experience when using it. Look for a pad that has a sturdy binding that allows you to easily flip through pages without them falling out. Some pads may also have spiral bindings that allow you to fold the pad back on itself for easier use.
Sheets Per Pad
The number of sheets per pad can also be a consideration. Some pads may have fewer sheets but thicker paper, while others may have more sheets but thinner paper. Consider your needs and preferences when choosing the number of sheets per pad.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the pad. While some high-end pads may offer exceptional quality, they may also come with a higher price tag. Consider your budget and the features that are most important to you when making your selection.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best watercolor pad for your needs and create beautiful works of art with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the characteristics of high-quality watercolor paper for professionals?
High-quality watercolor paper for professionals should have a good absorbency rate, allowing the paint to flow smoothly and evenly. It should also have a good texture that can hold the paint and create interesting effects. The paper should be acid-free and have a good weight to prevent warping.
Which watercolor paper brands are recommended for beginners?
Some of the watercolor paper brands recommended for beginners are Canson, Strathmore, and Fabriano. These brands offer affordable options that are suitable for practicing and experimenting with watercolors.
How does paper weight, measured in GSM, affect watercolor painting?
The weight of the paper affects how much water it can absorb without warping or buckling. A heavier paper, measured in GSM (grams per square meter), can withstand more water and is less likely to warp. It also allows for more layers of paint and creates a more textured and professional-looking finish.
What are the differences between watercolor pads and loose sheets?
Watercolor pads are bound sheets of paper that are convenient for outdoor painting or travel. Loose sheets, on the other hand, offer more flexibility in terms of size and can be easily removed and framed. Both options offer a variety of textures and weights to choose from.
How do Arches watercolor pads compare to other top brands?
Arches watercolor pads are considered one of the top brands in the market due to their high-quality paper, excellent texture, and durability. They are also known for their ability to withstand multiple layers of paint without warping or buckling.
What are the best watercolor paper options available on Amazon?
Some of the best watercolor paper options available on Amazon include Arches Watercolor Paper Pad, Canson XL Watercolor Pad, and Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Pad. These brands offer a variety of textures and weights to choose from, making them suitable for both beginners and professionals.
