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Best Watercolour Paper

Table of Contents

Embrace the Magic of Watercolor with The Finest Papers
Exploring the Types of Paper for Artistic Expression
The Importance of Selecting High-Quality Paper
The Importance of Selecting High-Quality Paper

Embrace the Magic of Watercolor with The Finest Papers

When it comes to watercolor painting, the quality of your paper can profoundly impact the result. Our curated selection of watercolor papers at The Sydney Art Store is designed to meet the diverse needs of both budding and seasoned artists. We understand the crucial role that paper weight, texture, and absorbency play in influencing the spread of pigment and water, the vibrancy of colours, and the overall look of your artwork. Our range comprises of premium papers from renowned brands, ensuring optimal performance and durability. Whether you prefer a rough or smooth texture, a heavy or light weight, or a hot- or cold-pressed finish, we have you covered. Beyond providing high-quality materials, we also strive to inspire your creativity and help you realise your artistic vision with ease and excellence.

Exploring the Types of Paper for Artistic Expression

Paper is one of the most versatile tools in an artist’s toolkit, offering a surface for every medium and technique. From smooth, durable drawing paper to textured watercolor sheets, each type of paper is uniquely suited to specific artistic needs. Pastel paper enhances blending and layering, while rice paper lends a delicate, ethereal quality to ink or brushwork. Sketchbooks offer convenience and portability, while canvas paper mimics the texture of stretched canvas for painters. Printmaking and conservation papers ensure long-lasting results for fine art projects. Choosing the right type of paper unlocks new creative possibilities, ensuring that each piece is perfectly paired with a surface that complements its style and medium.

The Importance of Selecting High-Quality Paper

Arches Watercolour Paper Sheets ( Natural White )
Arches Watercolour Paper Sheets ( Natural White )

$114.71

Fabriano Accademia Paper Rolls
Fabriano Accademia Paper Rolls

$83.61

Arches Watercolour Pads 300gsm
Arches Watercolour Pads 300gsm

$33.40

Choosing high-quality paper is critical for ensuring the success and longevity of your artwork. Premium papers are crafted to support specific mediums, offering smooth surfaces for detailed sketches or textured options for bold, expressive painting. Acid-free papers prevent yellowing and deterioration over time, making them ideal for archival-quality work. For wet techniques like watercolor or ink, thick, durable paper absorbs the medium without warping or bleeding. Artists working with pastels benefit from paper with a fine tooth, which holds pigment effectively. Poor-quality paper can lead to frustrating results, such as smudging or fading. By investing in superior paper, you provide your art with a strong foundation and lasting impact.

The Sydney Art Store: Premium Papers for Every Artistic Need

At The Sydney Art Store, we offer a comprehensive range of premium papers designed to support artists across all mediums and styles. From textured watercolor paper to smooth drawing and sketching options, our collection ensures the perfect surface for every technique. Our pastel and canvas papers are tailored for rich blending and painterly effects, while printmaking and conservation papers provide archival quality for fine art. For those exploring mixed media or experimental techniques, we stock versatile options that inspire creativity. With an emphasis on durability and performance, The Sydney Art Store’s papers deliver professional results and ensure your work is preserved for years to come.

Featured collection

  • ARCHES PADS ARCHES A5 (148x210mm) 300gsm - Smooth (HP) Arches Watercolour Pads
    ARCHES PADS ARCHES A5 (148x210mm) 300gsm - Medium (CP) Arches Watercolour Pads
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    Arches Watercolour Pads 300gsm

    ARCHES PADS
    $33.40 - $92.50
    $33.40 - $92.50
    $51.40
    $33.40 - $78.63
    $33.40 - $78.63
    $33.40

    Discover unparalleled durability and exceptional absorption with Arches Watercolour Pads. Crafted from pure cotton fibres, these pads are perfect f...

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    $33.40 - $92.50
    $33.40 - $92.50
    $51.40
    $33.40 - $78.63
    $33.40 - $78.63
    $33.40
    Save up to 15% Save %
  • CANVARS CANVAR Canvars Italian CYAN 18mm Depth Cotton
    CANVARS CANVAR Canvars Italian CYAN 18mm Depth Cotton
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    Canvars Italian CYAN 18mm Depth Cotton

    CANVARS
    $11.80 - $157.50
    $11.80 - $157.50
    $11.80
    $7.08 - $94.50
    $7.08 - $94.50
    $7.08

      Working with an international company Ars founded in Serbia who specialise in stretchers ( As this part of the world has the best quality pine) t...

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    $11.80 - $157.50
    $11.80 - $157.50
    $11.80
    $7.08 - $94.50
    $7.08 - $94.50
    $7.08
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  • ART SPECTRUM OILS ART SPECTRUM Art Spectrum Titanium White
    ART SPECTRUM OILS ART SPECTRUM Art Spectrum Titanium White
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    Art Spectrum Titanium White

    ART SPECTRUM OILS
    $18.55 - $626.25
    $18.55 - $626.25
    $18.55
    $14.84 - $501.00
    $14.84 - $501.00
    $14.84

    Art Spectrum Professional Quality Artists’ Oil Colour is a prestigious Australian brand. It has been locally made for 50 years with lightfast pigme...

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    $18.55 - $626.25
    $18.55 - $626.25
    $18.55
    $14.84 - $501.00
    $14.84 - $501.00
    $14.84
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  • CANVARS CANVAR Canvars Italian GRANDE 38mm Depth Cotton
    CANVARS CANVAR Canvars Italian GRANDE 38mm Depth Cotton
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    Canvars Italian GRANDE 38mm Depth Cotton

    CANVARS
    $21.00 - $73.20
    $21.00 - $73.20
    $21.00
    $12.60 - $43.92
    $12.60 - $43.92
    $12.60

      Working with an international company Ars founded in Serbia who specialise in stretchers ( As this part of the world has the best quality pine) t...

    View full details
    $21.00 - $73.20
    $21.00 - $73.20
    $21.00
    $12.60 - $43.92
    $12.60 - $43.92
    $12.60
    Save up to 40% Save %
  • ARCHES SHEETS ARCHES Arches Watercolour Paper Sheets ( Natural White )
    ARCHES SHEETS ARCHES Arches Watercolour Paper Sheets ( Natural White )
    Save up to 15% Save %

    Arches Watercolour Paper Sheets ( Natural White )

    ARCHES SHEETS
    $118.00 - $724.00
    $118.00 - $724.00
    $134.95
    $114.71 - $615.40
    $114.71 - $615.40
    $114.71

    Indulge in creativity with Arches Watercolour Paper Sheets. Crafted from 100% cotton, these sheets provide the perfect balance of strength and stab...

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    $118.00 - $724.00
    $118.00 - $724.00
    $134.95
    $114.71 - $615.40
    $114.71 - $615.40
    $114.71
    Save up to 15% Save %
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Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Different Types of Paper for Art?

Art paper comes in many varieties, each suited to specific mediums and techniques. Watercolor paper is thick and textured, designed to absorb water without warping. Sketch paper is lightweight and smooth, perfect for pencil or pen. Mixed-media paper combines durability and versatility, accommodating both wet and dry mediums. Pastel paper features a slightly gritty texture for holding pigments, while canvas paper mimics a primed canvas surface for acrylic or oil painting.

How to Choose the Best Paper for Watercolor Painting?

When selecting watercolor paper, weight and texture are key. Opt for 140 lb (300 gsm) or heavier paper to prevent buckling when wet. Paper textures include hot-pressed (smooth), cold-pressed (medium texture), and rough (highly textured), with cold-pressed being the most versatile for various watercolor techniques. Acid-free paper is essential to prevent yellowing over time, ensuring your artwork remains vibrant and preserved for years to come.

What Is the Best Paper for Acrylic Painting?

Acrylic painting requires thick, durable paper capable of handling heavy paint layers. Look for acrylic-specific paper, which mimics the texture of canvas while being portable and easy to use. Mixed-media paper is another option for light acrylic work, offering versatility across mediums. Ensure the paper is at least 300 gsm (140 lb) to withstand wet applications without warping. Pre-primed paper adds convenience, offering better paint adhesion and vibrant results.

Can You Use Watercolor Paper for Acrylics?

Yes, watercolor paper can be used for acrylic painting, but results depend on preparation. Heavier watercolor paper, like 300 gsm (140 lb), can handle the weight of acrylic paint without buckling. However, it is recommended to prime the paper with gesso for better paint adhesion and color vibrancy. For light acrylic washes, unprimed watercolor paper works well, blending the softness of watercolor techniques with the boldness of acrylics.

How to Choose Paper for Pencil Drawing?

Choosing paper for pencil drawing depends on the level of detail and shading techniques you plan to use. Smooth paper is ideal for fine, intricate details, while textured paper enhances shading and depth. Look for acid-free, medium-weight paper (around 80–100 gsm) for durability and longevity. Sketchpads are great for practice, while higher-quality drawing paper suits more detailed or final works. Spiral-bound pads offer convenience for on-the-go artists.

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