10 Best Watercolor Paper 2025 in the United States

The Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad is a solid choice for both beginners and experienced artists. Measuring 9 x 12 inches, each pad contains 20 sheets of 140 lb (300 gsm) cold-pressed paper. The heavyweight nature of the paper ensures durability and the slightly textured surface is ideal for mastering various watercolor techniques.

The paper's natural white color and acid-free properties make it suitable for a wide range of media including watercolor, acrylic, colored pencils, and more, ensuring your artwork remains vibrant over time. It's a budget-friendly option, recommended by educators, which makes it particularly suitable for students and hobbyists. However, the pad contains only 20 sheets, which may not be sufficient for heavy users. Additionally, while the paper is versatile, some professional artists might prefer a higher sheet count or different textures for specialized projects.

With an FSC certification, the paper is sourced responsibly, making it an eco-friendly choice. If you're looking for affordable and versatile watercolor paper that caters to various art forms and skill levels, the Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad is worth considering.

The Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is a solid choice for artists looking for good-quality watercolor paper. With its cold press textured surface, it offers excellent grip for watercolors, making it ideal for both beginners and more experienced artists. The paper is heavyweight, which means it can hold up well to repeated washes without warping or tearing, allowing for a variety of techniques, including layering and wet-on-wet applications. This versatility extends to other mediums too, as it's suitable for acrylics, colored pencils, and even charcoal, catering to mixed media enthusiasts. This flexibility can be quite appealing for those who like to experiment with different styles.

On the downside, the 9x12 inch size may feel limiting for artists who prefer larger canvases to fully express their creativity. While the pad is acid-free, which is great for preserving artworks, some users may find that it does not always provide the same smooth surface as other premium watercolor papers, potentially affecting the final outcome of finer details. Additionally, while the paper's natural white color is appealing, there are those who might prefer a more off-white or textured paper for specific styles.

The Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is a dependable paper option that balances quality and affordability, making it particularly suitable for students, hobbyists, and artists trying out different mediums. However, those seeking larger formats or specialized textures may want to explore other options. Whether you’re practicing techniques or working on finished pieces, this pad holds a lot of potential.

The Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is a solid choice for beginners and hobbyists looking for quality paper that won't break the bank. It features heavyweight, cold-pressed paper at 140lb (300gsm), which means it’s thick enough to handle multiple layers of watercolor without warping—a common issue with thinner papers. The cold-pressed texture offers a nice balance; it’s not too rough or too smooth, allowing you to work with various watercolor techniques like washes, layering, and fine details. The paper is acid-free, which helps your artwork stay vibrant and prevents yellowing over time. Each pad contains 30 sheets sized at 11x15 inches, a versatile format that gives you ample space for portraits, landscapes, or journaling.

The foldover binding makes it easy to flip through and use without damaging the pages. Being made in France, this pad benefits from a long tradition of quality papermaking. It does not come with a warranty, and while it’s great for watercolor and light acrylic or gouache, very heavy acrylic paints might cause some buckling. Additionally, if you prefer a smoother or rougher texture specifically, this cold-pressed option might not perfectly match your style.

Given its price and dependable quality, it is a popular pick for many artists starting out or practicing various watercolor methods.