Shop by artistic need
Cold Press or Hot Press? Find Your Perfect Surface.
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Cold press
A gently textured surface that takes washes evenly and still holds detail. The most versatile choice, and a good first paper.
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Hot press
Smooth and even, for fine lines, crisp edges and pen and wash. Paint sits on the surface, and finished work scans cleanly.
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Rough
The deepest texture. Pigment settles into the grain, which suits bold, loose landscapes and granulating colors.
Weight, cotton and format
How heavy should my paper be?
300 gsm (140 lb) is the standard weight for watercolor. It takes repeated wet washes and buckles less than lighter paper. Lighter papers, such as 200 gsm, suit sketching, studies and practice.
Cotton or cellulose?
Paper made from 100% cotton absorbs water evenly, stays workable longer and takes lifting and layering well, which is why it is the usual choice for finished paintings. Cellulose (wood-pulp) paper costs less and is fine for practice.
Block, pad or loose sheets?
A block is glued on all four sides, so the sheet stays flat while you paint. Once the painting is dry, slide a blade under the edge to lift it off. Pads and loose sheets are easier to cut to size and to frame.
Why we care about paper
All About Art International is run by three art lovers who personally test every product before bringing it to you. Our aim: the most affordable, best-quality art supplies for every artist who loves to paint.
We believe paper matters most, because it shapes everything that happens on it: how a wash spreads, how pigment settles and how many layers a sheet will take.
What artists are saying
Artist spotlight
Amber Lane
“My hope is to encourage others to stay curious, keep learning and find the fun in art. And of course laugh along the way.”