10 Best Watercolor Books 2025 in the United States

The U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Book set is a solid choice for artists of various skill levels, whether you're a beginner or more experienced. With its compact size of 5.5" x 8.5" and included two-pack, this product is convenient for travel and on-the-go sketching. Each book is filled with 76 sheets of heavyweight 110 lb (230 GSM) paper, which is thick enough to handle watercolors without bleed-through, making it suitable for both wet and dry media.

One standout feature is the cold-pressed textured surface that enhances the blending of colors and helps achieve clean lines. The acid-free nature of the paper also ensures that your artwork won’t fade over time, which is a great advantage for preserving your pieces. The linen-bound hardcover design adds durability, making these books resistant to daily wear and tear, while the elastic band closure keeps your projects protected from environmental factors.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The size might be limiting for those who prefer larger canvases to work on, especially for expansive watercolor techniques. While the textured finish is beneficial, some artists might find it less suitable for precision work that requires a smoother surface. Additionally, being a mixed media book, it may not excel in all types of media, so it's best suited for watercolor and sketching rather than heavy applications like oils or pastels.

The Arches Watercolor Pad (Hot Press, 11.69x16.53 inches, 12 sheets) is a top-tier choice for watercolor artists seeking professional quality paper. Made from 100% cotton, its long fibers and unique gelatin sizing "to the core" provide excellent durability and smooth texture, making it easy to blend and lift paint without damaging the surface. The hot press finish offers a smooth, fine grain ideal for detailed work or styles that require precise brush control. This pad is great for both watercolor and other mediums like gouache, ink, or acrylic, offering versatility for mixed media artists.

One key strength is its resistance to scratching and tearing, thanks to the evenly distributed cotton fibers from the cylinder mould process. This makes it suitable for artists who like to erase or rework areas. The paper’s natural white color and pH-neutral quality mean your artwork will stay vibrant and fresh over time. Each sheet detaches easily from the pad, which is convenient when working on multiple projects.

Though this pad is a bit pricier than student-grade papers, its quality justifies the cost for serious amateurs and professionals. Beginners might find the hot press texture less forgiving compared to cold press papers, which have more texture for washes and softer effects. The pad includes 12 sheets sized generously for larger compositions, but if smaller formats or more sheets are preferred, other options may be more suitable. This Arches pad is ideal for artists who want reliable, archival-quality paper with a smooth surface that enhances fine detail and color vibrancy, while it may be less suited for those favoring textured paper or working within a tight budget.

The Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch is a top-tier choice for watercolor artists, whether beginners or professionals. One of its biggest strengths is the use of 100% cotton paper, which ensures a luxurious feel and excellent durability. The cold press texture allows for great moisture absorption, giving artists control over their paints. The paper's unique gelatin sizing prevents colors from bleeding and enhances blending, making it ideal for various techniques. Additionally, the pH-neutral quality helps preserve artworks over time without the risk of yellowing, which is essential for anyone serious about their craft.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The price point may be on the higher end, which could be a drawback for those just starting out or on a tight budget. While the pad is designed for watercolors, it is also compatible with other mediums like gouache and ink, but some artists may prefer specific pads for certain materials.

The layout is straightforward with sheets that can be easily removed, making it convenient for artists who like to work on individual pieces. However, the 9x12-inch size may not suit everyone, especially if you prefer larger or smaller formats for your projects.

This watercolor pad is a fantastic investment for dedicated artists who value quality and longevity in their materials. It may be less suitable for casual users or those exploring various art forms without a commitment to watercolor painting.