Types Of Paper
Choosing the best paper for colored pencils can greatly enhance your art. There are several types of paper that work well with colored pencils. Each type offers unique benefits and characteristics. Let’s explore some of the most popular options.Textured Paper
Textured paper is a favorite among many artists. It has a rough surface that allows colored pencils to grip well. This type of paper is great for creating depth and layers in your artwork. Here are some key features of textured drawing paper:- Enhanced Grip: The rough texture helps the pencil color stick better.
- Layering: You can easily add multiple layers of color.
- Shading: Ideal for shading techniques and adding details.
Smooth Paper
Smooth paper, also known as smooth finish paper, offers a completely different experience. Its surface is slick and even. This makes it excellent for achieving smooth color applications and fine details. Here are some benefits:- Even Color: Smooth paper allows for even and consistent color application.
- Fine Details: Perfect for intricate details and precise lines.
- Blending: Colors blend easily on smooth surfaces.
Bristol Board
Bristol board is a popular choice for colored pencil artists. It is a high-quality, durable paper. Bristol board for colored pencils comes in two main types: smooth and vellum. Here’s what you need to know:Type | Characteristics |
---|---|
Smooth | Ideal for fine details and precision. |
Vellum | Has a slight texture, good for layering and shading. |
Paper Weight Matters
When creating colored pencil art, the type of paper you use can greatly influence the outcome. Paper weight matters because it impacts the durability, texture, and overall quality of your artwork. Different paper weights can offer unique benefits depending on your drawing style and techniques. Let’s delve into why choosing the right paper weight is essential for sketching with colored pencils.Lightweight Vs. Heavyweight
Lightweight paper is generally considered to be less than 160 GSM (grams per square meter). This type of paper is often used for quick sketches or practice drawings. It is more affordable and easier to find. However, lightweight paper may not handle multiple layers of colored pencils well. It might tear or buckle under the pressure of heavy blending techniques. Heavyweight paper, on the other hand, ranges from 160 GSM to over 300 GSM. This type of paper is sturdier and more durable. It can withstand multiple layers of color and heavy pressure without buckling. Heavyweight paper is ideal for detailed and complex colored pencil art. It provides a smooth finish and better support for blending techniques. Here’s a quick comparison between lightweight and heavyweight papers:Feature | Lightweight Paper | Heavyweight Paper |
---|---|---|
GSM | Less than 160 | 160 and above |
Durability | Less durable | More durable |
Usage | Quick sketches | Detailed drawings |
Cost | Lower | Higher |
Recommended Gsm
The recommended GSM for colored pencil art varies based on the type of artwork you plan to create. For basic sketching and practice, a GSM of 120 to 150 is usually adequate. This range provides enough durability for light to moderate layering and blending. For more advanced and detailed colored pencil art, a GSM of 160 to 200 is often recommended. This weight offers better support for multiple layers and more intense blending techniques. It also helps in maintaining the integrity of the paper, preventing it from buckling or tearing. For professional and artist-grade paper, a GSM of 200 and above is ideal. This weight provides the highest quality and durability. It is perfect for intricate and detailed drawings, allowing for rich color application and smooth blending. Cardstock for colored pencils typically falls into this category, ensuring the best results for your artwork. Here’s a quick guide to recommended GSM based on drawing needs:Drawing Need | Recommended GSM |
---|---|
Basic Sketching | 120-150 |
Advanced Drawings | 160-200 |
Professional Art | 200 and above |
Color Saturation
Choosing the best paper for colored pencils can make a significant difference in your artwork. One key factor to consider is color saturation. This determines how bright and vivid your colors appear. Quality paper influences how well-colored pencils perform, affecting the saturation and overall look of your drawings.Absorbency Levels
Absorbency levels play a crucial role in how well-colored pencils adhere to the paper. Absorbent paper can either enhance or hinder your artwork. Here’s why: When you use colored pencils, the paper’s ability to absorb pigments affects the vibrancy of your colors. High absorbency levels can cause the pigments to seep into the paper, which might dull the colors. On the other hand, low absorbency levels help keep the pigments on the surface, making the colors more vivid. Here are some factors to consider:- Smooth Drawing Paper: Less absorbent, great for bright colors.
- Colored Pencil Paper: Designed to hold pigments well.
- Paper Texture: Textured papers might absorb more pigment.
Paper Type | Absorbency Level | Color Saturation |
---|---|---|
Smooth Drawing Paper | Low | High |
Textured Paper | High | Moderate |
Impact On Vibrancy
The impact of paper on the vibrancy of your colored pencil artwork cannot be overstated. The right paper enhances the vibrant colors of your drawings, while the wrong paper can make them look dull. Here’s how: Paper texture plays a significant role in vibrancy. Smooth surfaces allow for even application of pigment, resulting in bright and vivid colors. Textured surfaces can create a unique look but might not be as vibrant. Paper weight also matters. Heavier paper can hold more layers of pigment, which is beneficial for blending techniques and achieving deeper saturation. Lighter paper might not support multiple layers, leading to less vibrant colors. Consider these points:- Blending Techniques: Heavier paper supports more layers of color.
- Paper For Sketching: Lightweight paper is good for quick sketches but might lack vibrancy.
- Archival Quality Paper: Ensures your artwork remains vibrant over time.
Paper Feature | Impact on Vibrancy |
---|---|
Smooth Texture | High Vibrancy |
Heavy Weight | Supports Layering |
Archival Quality | Long-lasting Vibrancy |
Surface Finish
Choosing the best paper for colored pencils can greatly impact your artwork. One key factor to consider is the surface finish of the paper. The surface finish influences how colors appear and blend. It affects the texture and overall outcome of your drawing. Let’s explore two common types of surface finishes: matte and glossy.Matte Vs. Glossy
Matte and glossy finishes offer different experiences for artists. Matte paper provides a non-reflective, textured surface. This type is ideal for detailed drawings. It offers more control over your strokes. Textured paper for colored pencils, such as matte, helps capture more pigment. As a result, you get richer colors. Glossy paper, on the other hand, has a shiny, smooth surface. This finish allows for vibrant colors. The glossy paper enhances color vibrancy. It reflects light, making your artwork appear brighter. However, it can be slippery. This may make it challenging to achieve fine details. Here’s a comparison table to highlight the differences:Feature | Matte Finish | Glossy Finish |
---|---|---|
Surface Texture | Textured | Smooth |
Color Vibrancy | Rich, Deep Colors | Bright, Vibrant Colors |
Control | More Control | Less Control |
Details | Excellent for Fine Details | Challenging for Fine Details |
Effects On Blending
Blending techniques are crucial in colored pencil art. The surface finish of the paper affects how well you can blend colors. Matte paper offers a rough texture. This texture helps in blending multiple layers of color. The small grooves on the paper hold pigment. This allows for smoother transitions between colors. Using smooth vs. rough paper can change your blending results. Smooth paper, like glossy, can be tricky for blending. The lack of texture makes it harder for pigments to mix. Artists may struggle to achieve seamless blends. On the other hand, rough paper, like matte, makes blending easier. The texture helps mix the colors smoothly. Here are some points to consider for effective blending:- Paper Weight for Colored Pencils: Heavier paper withstands multiple layers.
- Paper Opacity: Opaque paper prevents colors from bleeding through.
- Archival Quality Paper: Ensures your artwork lasts longer.
Paper Sizing
Choosing the best paper for colored pencils involves several factors, one of which is paper sizing. Paper sizing can significantly impact how colored pencils interact with the surface, influencing the final artwork’s quality. Understanding standard and custom sizes helps in selecting the optimal paper for colored pencils.Standard Sizes
Standard paper sizes are widely available and cater to most drawing needs. These sizes fit common frames and portfolios, making them ideal for various projects. Popular standard sizes include:- A4 (8.27 x 11.69 inches) – Commonly used for sketches and practice drawings.
- A3 (11.69 x 16.54 inches) – Great for larger projects, providing more space for detailed work.
- 9 x 12 inches – Often used for school projects and casual drawing.
- 11 x 14 inches – Suitable for professional work and framing.
- 18 x 24 inches – Excellent for large-scale artwork and exhibitions.
Type of Paper | Best Used For |
---|---|
Drawing Paper For Colored Pencils | Versatile and ideal for various colored pencil techniques. |
Smooth Paper For Colored Pencils | Perfect for detailed work and blending colored pencils. |
Heavyweight Paper For Colored Pencils | Supports multiple layers and heavy shading. |
Acid-Free Paper For Colored Pencils | Ensures longevity and prevents yellowing. |
Sketching Paper For Colored Pencils | Great for quick sketches and practice. |
Custom Sizes
Custom sizes offer flexibility and cater to unique artistic needs. Artists often prefer custom sizes for specific projects that require non-standard dimensions. Benefits of using custom sizes include:- Tailored Artwork – Custom sizes allow for personalized dimensions, perfect for bespoke projects.
- Unique Framing – Custom sizes can fit unique frames, enhancing the presentation of your artwork.
- Optimal Paper For Colored Pencils – Choose the exact size that complements your drawing style and paper texture for colored pencils.
- Mixed Media Projects – Combining colored pencils with other media may require specific sizes.
- Commissioned Artwork – Clients may request unique dimensions, making custom sizes essential.
- Experimental Art – Trying new techniques or compositions benefits from custom-sized paper.
Brand Recommendations
Choosing the best paper for colored pencils can make a huge difference in your artwork. The right paper enhances your colors, provides texture for blending, and ensures your work lasts. Here are some top brand recommendations to help you make the best choice for your colored pencil projects.Top Brands
When selecting paper for colored pencils, three brands stand out for their quality and performance: Strathmore, Canson, and Bristol. These brands offer papers that are highly recommended by artists for their durability and texture. Strathmore 400 Series Colored Pencil Paper is a favorite among artists. It has a smooth surface that is perfect for detailed work and layering. The paper is heavy enough to handle multiple layers of color without warping or pilling. Artists appreciate its ability to hold pigments well, making colors appear vibrant. Another excellent choice is the Canson XL Mixed Media Paper. This versatile paper is great not only for colored pencils but also for other mediums. It has a slight texture that grips the pencil well, allowing for excellent blending and shading. The affordable price makes it a great option for both beginners and professionals. The Bristol Vellum Paper by Strathmore is another top choice. This paper has a vellum surface that provides a toothy texture, perfect for colored pencil work. It is thick and sturdy, making it ideal for heavy layering and blending. Many artists prefer this paper for its ability to handle detailed and complex artwork.Strathmore Colored Pencil Spiral Paper Pad...
Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad, Side Wire, 9x12...
Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Vellum 11 In. X 14...
Type
400 Series Colored Pencil Paper
XL Mixed Media Paper
Bristol Vellum Paper
Features
Smooth surface, heavy weight, vibrant colors
Versatile, slight texture, affordable
Toothy texture, thick, excellent for blending
Strathmore Colored Pencil Spiral Paper Pad...
Type
400 Series Colored Pencil Paper
Features
Smooth surface, heavy weight, vibrant colors
Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad, Side Wire, 9x12...
Type
XL Mixed Media Paper
Features
Versatile, slight texture, affordable
Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Vellum 11 In. X 14...
Type
Bristol Vellum Paper
Features
Toothy texture, thick, excellent for blending
Budget Options
Finding quality paper for colored pencils on a budget is possible. Here are some options that provide good performance without breaking the bank. The Canson XL Mixed Media Paper is an excellent budget choice. It offers good texture and durability at a lower price point. This paper is ideal for students and hobbyists who need reliable papers for practice and projects. Another affordable option is the Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Paper. While not as thick as the 400 series, it still provides a smooth surface suitable for colored pencils. This paper is great for quick sketches and preliminary drawings. For those needing a larger quantity of paper, the Arteza Drawing Pad is a great choice. It offers a good balance of quality and quantity, making it perfect for artists who need a lot of paper for practice. The paper has a fine texture that works well with colored pencils and other dry media.- Canson XL Mixed Media Paper: Good texture, durable, affordable
- Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Paper: Smooth surface, suitable for quick sketches
- Arteza Drawing Pad: Balanced quality and quantity, fine texture
Testing Paper
Choosing the best paper for colored pencils is crucial for achieving vibrant and detailed artwork. Testing paper is an important step in finding the perfect match for your colored pencils. Experimenting with different paper types allows you to see how well the pencils blend, layer, and produce color. This section will guide you through two essential tests: swatch tests and layering techniques.Swatch Tests
Swatch tests are a great way to see how different papers affect your colored pencils. By creating small color samples, you can observe the interaction between the pencil and the paper texture. For this test, use a variety of papers such as smooth paper for colored pencils and pastel paper for colored pencils. Here are the steps to follow:- Choose several types of paper, including thick paper for colored pencils and thin ones.
- Create a small square or rectangular area on each paper type.
- Fill each area with a single color, using the same pressure and technique.
- Color vibrancy: How bright and vivid are the colors?
- Blending colored pencils: Does the paper allow smooth blending?
- Texture: How does the paper texture for colored pencils affect the stroke?
Paper Type | Color Vibrancy | Blending Capability | Texture Effect |
---|---|---|---|
Smooth Paper | High | Excellent | Minimal |
Pastel Paper | Medium | Good | Noticeable |
Layering Techniques
Layering techniques are essential for creating depth and dimension in colored pencil artwork. The best paper types for coloring should support multiple layers without breaking down. To test this, use different papers like colored pencil paper and smooth paper for colored pencils. Follow these steps:- Select a few different papers.
- Draw a small area using light pressure to create the first layer.
- Add more layers, gradually increasing the pressure.
- Observe how the paper handles the layering.
- Durability: Does the paper hold up under multiple layers?
- Saturation: How well does the paper allow the build-up of color?
- Texture: Does the texture of the paper interfere with the layering?
Paper Type | Durability | Saturation | Texture Interaction |
---|---|---|---|
Colored Pencil Paper | High | Excellent | Minimal |
Pastel Paper | Medium | Good | Noticeable |
Care And Preservation
Drawing with colored pencils on the best paper can elevate your artwork to new heights. However, it’s equally important to know how to care for and preserve your paper. Proper care ensures the longevity of your artwork, maintaining its vibrant colors and intricate details. Let’s dive into some essential tips for care and preservation.Storage Tips
Storing your colored pencil artwork properly is crucial for its preservation. Here are some key considerations:- Acid-Free Storage: Use acid-free folders or portfolios. Acid-free materials prevent yellowing and deterioration of your paper over time.
- Climate Control: Store your artwork in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures and humidity can affect the paper’s durability for colored pencils.
- Flat Storage: Lay your artwork flat to avoid bending or creasing. This is especially important for heavier paper weight for colored pencils.
Storage Type | Benefits |
---|---|
Flat Files | Prevents bending, ideal for archival quality paper |
Portfolios | Portable, protects from light and dust |
Boxes | Stackable, good for acid-free paper storage |
Handling Techniques
Handling your artwork with care is just as important as storing it correctly. Here are some techniques:- Clean Hands: Always wash your hands before touching your artwork. Oils and dirt can transfer to the paper, affecting its texture.
- Use Tools: Use tools like tweezers to handle delicate pieces. This minimizes direct contact with the paper grain types.
- Protective Sheets: Place a sheet of clean paper over your artwork while working on it. This prevents smudging and keeps the surface smooth vs textured paper.
Blending Tool | Effect on Paper |
---|---|
Blending Stumps | Gentle, good for smooth and optimal paper texture |
Fingers | Can transfer oils, risk of smudging |
Brushes | Even blending, good for paper for mixed media |