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 Arches Watercolor Block offers high-quality paper for watercolor enthusiasts and professionals. The paper weight is substantial at 140 lb (300 GSM), providing a sturdy surface that can handle multiple layers of paint without warping or tearing. The cold press texture gives a slightly textured finish, ideal for a variety of painting techniques including watercolor, gouache, ink, and acrylic.

Made from 100% cotton, this paper offers durability and responsiveness, allowing artists to work confidently without concern for the paper deteriorating or tearing during use. The gelatin sizing 'to the core' enhances the transparency and luster of colors, making it easier to blend and overlay paints, and also prevents the paint from soaking through the paper. The block format, glued on all sides, maintains the integrity of the paper and allows for easy transport and use without the need for a separate board or tape.

However, the premium quality comes at a higher price point, and the 8x10-inch size may be limiting for those who prefer larger canvases. Additionally, some users might find the block format less flexible compared to loose sheets. The Arches Watercolor Block is well-suited for artists seeking a reliable, high-quality paper that enhances their painting experience.

The Arches Watercolor Paper Block in 7" x 10" size is a solid choice for artists who want high-quality paper that holds up well with watercolors. Its 140-pound weight (about 300 GSM) means it’s thick and durable enough to handle multiple washes without warping. The cold press texture offers a light grain that’s popular among watercolorists because it balances detail and texture nicely—allowing paints to settle evenly while showing some subtle surface texture.

This paper is made from long fibers using a traditional cylinder mould process, which makes each sheet strong and resilient. Plus, it’s tub-sized with natural gelatin, adding extra durability and preventing the paint from soaking through too much. Coming in a block with 20 sheets makes it convenient since the edges stay glued, so you can paint on a flat surface without taping down your paper.

The 7" x 10" format is great for smaller works or practice, although it might be limiting if you prefer larger paintings. Also, the cold press finish, while versatile, might not satisfy artists who want a very smooth surface (hot press) or a very rough texture (rough). The Arches block is praised for its careful quality control and consistent performance, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced watercolor painters who want reliable, professional-grade paper.