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Watercolour Paper

Watercolour paper is a type of paper specifically designed for use with watercolour paints. It is generally heavier than standard drawing or printing paper, and has a higher absorbency, which helps to prevent the colours from spreading and bleeding. Watercolour paper is available in a variety of textures and finishes, including rough, smooth, and hot-pressed (which has a very smooth surface).

What kind of paper is watercolour paper?

Watercolour paper is made from a variety of different materials, including cellulose, cotton, and linen. The type of material used will affect the absorbency and texture of the paper. Watercolour paper is generally available in sheets or blocks (which are glued together at the edges).

Watercolour paper is graded by its weight, which is usually expressed in grams per square metre (gsm). The heavier the paper, the higher the quality. Watercolour paper is generally available in weights ranging from 90 gsm to 300 gsm.

What is the difference between watercolour paper and other types of paper?

Watercolour paper is specifically designed for use with watercolour paints. It is generally heavier than standard drawing or printing paper, and has a higher absorbency, which helps to prevent the colours from spreading and bleeding. Watercolour paper is available in a variety of textures and finishes, including rough, smooth, and hot-pressed (which has a very smooth surface).

Other types of paper, such as drawing or sketching paper, can be used for watercolour painting, but they may not produce the same results. Watercolour paper is generally a better choice for painting, as it is specifically designed to work well with watercolour paints.

Are there any drawbacks for watercolour paper?

Some watercolour papers can be quite expensive, particularly the higher quality ones. Watercolour paper is also generally not reusable, so you will need to buy new paper for each project.

Watercolour paper can also be tricky to work with, as it is more absorbent than other types of paper. This can make it difficult to achieve an even and consistent result. Watercolour paper is also more likely to buckle and warp when wet, so it's important to stretch it before painting (this is a process where the paper is wetted and then taped down at the edges to prevent it from moving).

What are some tips for using watercolour paper?

Here are some tips for using watercolour paper:

Choose the right type of paper for your project. If you're not sure, ask for advice at your local art supply store.
If you're using a block of watercolour paper, make sure to wet it thoroughly before beginning to paint. This will help to prevent the paper from buckling and warping.
Use a good quality watercolour brush, and make sure to load it with enough paint.
Work in small sections, and don't try to cover too much ground at once.
Allow each layer of paint to dry completely before adding another.
If you make a mistake, you can usually correct it by wetting the area and then blotting it dry with a paper towel.
Experiment with different types of watercolour paper to see which one you prefer.
Have fun and be creative! There are no rules when it comes to painting, so let your imagination run wild.