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 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.