10 Best Watercolor Papers 2025 in the United States

The Arches Watercolor Pad is a solid choice for artists looking for high-quality watercolor paper. Weighing in at 140 lb (300 GSM), it boasts a thickness that offers excellent durability, making it resistant to tearing and abrasion. The 100% cotton material is a significant plus, providing a luxurious feel and allowing for vibrant color application. The cold press texture is particularly great for those who enjoy applying washes and details with ease, as it holds water well without warping. For those interested in other textures, Arches also offers hot and rough press options, catering to diverse artistic styles.

One standout feature is the unique gelatin sizing that penetrates the paper, which enhances color luster and transparency while preventing paints from soaking too deeply. This means that artists can enjoy greater control over their techniques, be it blending or lifting colors. Additionally, the pads are pH-neutral, promoting longevity in artwork, which is an essential factor for serious artists.

In summary, the Arches Watercolor Pad is a premium choice for both professional and serious hobbyist watercolorists looking for durability and performance in their art. Its strengths lie in its material quality and unique sizing, making it well-suited for vibrant and detailed watercolor work.

The Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is an excellent choice for artists looking for a reliable surface for various mediums, especially watercolor. One of its main strengths is the heavyweight cold press paper, which offers a textured finish that enhances the appearance of your artwork and is durable enough to handle multiple washes without warping or tearing. This makes it suitable not only for watercolor but also for acrylics, inks, and even colored pencils or pastels, providing versatility for different artistic styles.

The size of 9x12 inches is convenient for both sketching and finished pieces, and Canson offers larger sizes for those who prefer more space to work. Additionally, the acid-free material ensures that your artwork will resist fading over time, preserving the vibrancy of your colors. The natural white color of the paper provides a great backdrop for various hues, allowing colors to pop beautifully.

There are some areas to consider before purchasing. While the paper's texture is ideal for watercolor techniques, some artists may prefer a smoother surface for certain applications. If you’re working primarily with fine detail or pen and ink, you might find the texture slightly challenging. Additionally, since this is a pad with a foldover binding, it might not lay completely flat when opened, which could be a drawback for those used to working on flat surfaces.

The Arches Watercolor Block is a premium choice for artists seeking high-quality watercolor paper. At 9x12 inches and 140 lb weight, it strikes a solid balance between flexibility and strength, making it suitable for a variety of mediums including watercolor, gouache, ink, and acrylics. The long cotton fibers give it a beautiful texture and the cold press format provides a versatile surface for blending and layering colors.

One of the standout features is the exclusive gelatin sizing 'to the core' that helps keep paints from bleeding through, allowing for vibrant colors and easy corrections. This sizing enhances both the luster and transparency of the paint, making it easier for artists to achieve their desired effects. The paper’s resistance to scratching and tearing adds to its durability, which is a big plus for both professional and hobbyist artists.

The price point is on the higher side, which may not be ideal for beginners or casual artists who might not require such a premium product. Additionally, while its thickness is a strength, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer a lighter paper for sketching or practice work. Some might find that the cold press texture can feel a bit rough, which may not suit everyone’s style.