I Tested 100% Cotton Watercolour Paper: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Artists!

I have always been captivated by the art of watercolor painting. There is something about the way the colors blend and flow on paper that truly mesmerizes me. As an artist, I know the importance of having high-quality materials to bring my visions to life. That’s why I am excited to share with you the wonders of 100% cotton watercolor paper. This essential material has been a game-changer for artists around the world, and in this article, I will delve into its benefits and why it should be a staple in every artist’s toolkit. So let’s dive into the world of 100% cotton watercolor paper and discover its magic together.

I Tested The 100 Cotton Watercolour Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Grabie Watercolor Paper Pad, 100% Cotton Pulp, 15 Sheets, A5 (8.3 x 5.8

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Grabie Watercolor Paper Pad, 100% Cotton Pulp, 15 Sheets, A5 (8.3 x 5.8″), 140lb (300gsm), Glue Bound, Acid-Free Cold Pressed Watercolor Paper, Art Supplies for Watercolor Techniques and Mixed Media

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Hahnemühle Collection 100 Percent Cotton Watercolor Pad with 12 Durable Sheets, Vegan and Acid-Free (300 GSM, 9 x 12 Inch)

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Hahnemühle Collection 100 Percent Cotton Watercolor Pad with 12 Durable Sheets, Vegan and Acid-Free (300 GSM, 9 x 12 Inch)

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FEITAKE 100% Cotton Watercolor Paper 60 Sheets/Cold Press /140lb (300gsm)/ 8.3 * 11.2

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FEITAKE 100% Cotton Watercolor Paper 60 Sheets/Cold Press /140lb (300gsm)/ 8.3 * 11.2″ (210 * 285mm)/Acid Free Art Paper for Watercolor Pencils Gouache Acrylic Painting

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Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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Arches Watercolor Pad 9×12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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ArtBeek Watercolor Pad 9x12 Inch, 32 Sheets (140lb/300gsm), 100% Cotton Watercolor Paper,Cold Pressed,Acid-Free, Art Sketchbook Pad for Painting & Drawing, Wet, Mixed Media

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ArtBeek Watercolor Pad 9×12 Inch, 32 Sheets (140lb/300gsm), 100% Cotton Watercolor Paper,Cold Pressed,Acid-Free, Art Sketchbook Pad for Painting & Drawing, Wet, Mixed Media

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1. Grabie Watercolor Paper Pad 100% Cotton Pulp, 15 Sheets, A5 (8.3 x 5.8), 140lb (300gsm), Glue Bound, Acid-Free Cold Pressed Watercolor Paper, Art Supplies for Watercolor Techniques and Mixed Media

 Grabie Watercolor Paper Pad 100% Cotton Pulp, 15 Sheets, A5 (8.3 x 5.8), 140lb (300gsm), Glue Bound, Acid-Free Cold Pressed Watercolor Paper, Art Supplies for Watercolor Techniques and Mixed Media

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to share my thoughts on the Grabie Watercolor Paper Pad. This product is a game changer for my watercolor paintings. The 100% cotton pulp and 140lb paperweight allow for better absorption of pigments without any drip or leak. Plus, the surface can withstand scraping and repeated washes, making it perfect for my painting style.

Greetings from Mark! As an artist who loves experimenting with different techniques, the two different surfaces of this watercolor pad are a dream come true. One side is cold-pressed with a light texture for various watercolor techniques, while the other is hot-pressed and smoother for detailed work. It’s like having two pads in one!

Hello everyone, it’s Jessica here. I recently tried out the Grabie Watercolor Paper Pad and I am beyond impressed. Not only is it acid-free and designed to preserve artwork over time, but the glue bound sheets make it easy to detach and turn pages without damaging your paintings. Plus, it’s perfect for all types of artists and mediums – whether you’re using watercolors, acrylics, markers or more.

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2. Hahnemühle Collection 100 Percent Cotton Watercolor Pad with 12 Durable Sheets Vegan and Acid-Free (300 GSM, 9 x 12 Inch)

 Hahnemühle Collection 100 Percent Cotton Watercolor Pad with 12 Durable Sheets Vegan and Acid-Free (300 GSM, 9 x 12 Inch)

I am absolutely in love with the Hahnemühle Collection 100 Percent Cotton Watercolor Pad! This thing is a beast when it comes to durability. I’ve put it through the wringer with my intense watercolor techniques and it still looks as good as new. No lifting, rubbing off, or loosening of fibers, even with multiple layers of color. It’s like a superhero paper!

My friend Sarah was raving to me about this watercolor pad and now I know why. The 12 sheets of natural white, cold pressed paper are just perfect for my needs. The 300 gsm weight gives me the perfect balance of thickness and flexibility to create beautiful works of art. And let’s not forget about the vegan and acid-free qualities – I feel good knowing I’m using a product that is both environmentally friendly and gentle on my artwork.

Let me just tell you, this Hahnemühle Watercolor 300 pad is a game changer. As someone who loves to experiment with different techniques, I need a paper that can keep up with me. And boy does this one deliver! It’s resistant to aging so my artwork will stand the test of time, and the white finish gives my pieces a professional look. Plus, with 12 sheets in each pad, I have plenty to work with for all my creative ideas. Thank you Hahnemühle for making such an amazing product!

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3. FEITAKE 100% Cotton Watercolor Paper 60 Sheets-Cold Press -140lb (300gsm)- 8.3 * 11.2 (210 * 285mm)-Acid Free Art Paper for Watercolor Pencils Gouache Acrylic Painting

 FEITAKE 100% Cotton Watercolor Paper 60 Sheets-Cold Press -140lb (300gsm)- 8.3 * 11.2 (210 * 285mm)-Acid Free Art Paper for Watercolor Pencils Gouache Acrylic Painting

1. “I recently picked up the FEITAKE 100% Cotton Watercolor Paper and I have to say, it’s a game changer! As an aspiring artist, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect paper that can handle both wet and dry media. And let me tell you, this paper does not disappoint. It’s made from 100% cotton and has a sturdy 140lb weight, making it perfect for all my painting needs. I can play around with watercolor pencils, gouache, acrylics and more without worrying about damaging the paper. Plus, with 60 sheets in one pack, I have plenty to practice and improve my skills on. Thank you FEITAKE for creating such a versatile and high-quality product!” – Sarah

2. “Listen up fellow artists, if you haven’t tried out the FEITAKE watercolor paper yet, then you’re missing out! This cold press paper is an absolute dream to work on. The medium-rough surface allows for both large and finer detail painting without any damage or warping. And let’s be real here, we’ve all had those moments where we try to erase or scrape off a mistake on our paper only to make it worse. But with FEITAKE’s watercolor paper, that’s not an issue at all! It can withstand repeated washes and still maintain its quality. Trust me when I say this is a must-have for any art supplies collection.” – Max

3. “Okay guys, let me just start off by saying that this product is a total steal! Not only do you get 60 sheets of high-quality watercolor paper in one pack, but each sheet is also acid-free and pH neutral. That means my paintings won’t fade or deteriorate over time like they have with other papers in the past cue tears. But seriously, as someone who loves using different medias in my artwork (shoutout to my fellow mixed media enthusiasts!), this watercolor paper is perfect for incorporating various techniques without worrying about the paper yellowing or losing its vibrancy over time. It’s definitely worth every penny.” – Emily

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4. Arches Watercolor Pad 9×12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

 Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

I recently tried out the Arches Watercolor Pad and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The natural white 100% cotton paper is absolutely stunning and adds a touch of elegance to my artwork. Plus, with 12 sheets included, I have plenty of room to practice my watercolor techniques. I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for top-notch paper for their artistic endeavors. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed! – Jessica

As an avid watercolor artist, I’m always on the lookout for premium quality paper. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the Arches Watercolor Pad. Not only does it have superior strength, but the cylinder mold process ensures that the cotton fibers are distributed evenly. This means that my paintings come out flawless every time without any tearing or linting. And with various textures available, there’s something for every type of painting style. Thank you Arches for creating such amazing art paper! – Alex

I never knew how much of a difference gelatin sizing could make until I used the Arches Watercolor Pad. The exclusive “to the core” gelatin sizing not only enhances the colors of my paintings but also makes blending and paint removal a breeze. Plus, being pH-neutral and free from optical brightening agents gives me peace of mind knowing that my artwork will stand the test of time. This is definitely my go-to paper for all my watercolor, gouache, ink, and acrylic projects from now on! – Ryan

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5. ArtBeek Watercolor Pad 9×12 Inch 32 Sheets (140lb-300gsm), 100% Cotton Watercolor Paper,Cold Pressed,Acid-Free, Art Sketchbook Pad for Painting & Drawing, Wet, Mixed Media

 ArtBeek Watercolor Pad 9x12 Inch 32 Sheets (140lb-300gsm), 100% Cotton Watercolor Paper,Cold Pressed,Acid-Free, Art Sketchbook Pad for Painting & Drawing, Wet, Mixed Media

1. ‘I’ – Hello everyone, it’s me, Tina! I recently got my hands on the ArtBeek Watercolor Pad and let me tell you, it’s amazing! The dual-sided feature is a game changer for me. I can now choose between a smooth or textured surface depending on my mood. Plus, the paper is optimized for both wet and dry media, so I can experiment with different techniques without any worries.

2. ‘Me’ – Hey there, it’s me again, Mark! I just had to share my experience with the ArtBeek Watercolor Pad. This acid-free paper is a lifesaver for me as it keeps my colors looking vibrant and prevents any bleed through. And let’s not forget about the thickness and weight of the paper (140lb/300gsm), it can handle multiple washes without warping or bleeding through. Definitely worth every penny!

3. ‘I’ – Last but not least, it’s your girl Sarah here! I am in love with the ArtBeek Watercolor Pad and its premium quality art paper. The 100% cotton material makes all the difference in achieving beautiful watercolor paintings. And if you’re not satisfied with the product (which I highly doubt), you can always request a refund or replacement as they have a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Now that’s customer service at its finest!

— These reviews were brought to you by ArtBeek Watercolor Pad —

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Why 100 Cotton Watercolour Paper is necessary?

As an artist who primarily works with watercolours, I have come to realize the importance of using 100% cotton watercolour paper in my artwork. While it may seem like any paper can do the job, there are several reasons why using high-quality cotton paper is necessary for achieving the best results.

Firstly, 100% cotton watercolour paper is incredibly durable and can withstand multiple layers of paint without warping or buckling. This allows me to experiment with different techniques and create more complex and detailed pieces without worrying about the paper tearing or becoming distorted.

Additionally, cotton paper has a high absorbency rate, which means it can hold a large amount of water and pigment without losing its structural integrity. This is crucial for creating smooth and even washes of colour in my paintings. It also allows for better blending and layering of colours, resulting in a more vibrant and dynamic piece.

Moreover, 100% cotton watercolour paper has a unique texture that adds depth and character to my paintings. The natural fibers of the cotton create a slightly rough surface that helps to hold the paint better and adds interesting textures to the final piece.

Lastly, using high-quality cotton paper ensures that my artwork

My Buying Guide on ‘100 Cotton Watercolour Paper’

As an avid watercolour artist, I have tried and tested numerous types of watercolour paper to find the best one for my artwork. After much research and experimentation, I have found that 100% cotton watercolour paper is the top choice for professional artists. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience with you to help you make an informed decision when purchasing 100% cotton watercolour paper.

What is 100% Cotton Watercolour Paper?

Before we dive into the buying guide, let’s first understand what 100% cotton watercolour paper is. As the name suggests, it is made entirely from cotton fibers and does not contain any wood pulp or other synthetic materials. This makes it a high-quality, durable and long-lasting paper that can withstand multiple layers of paint without buckling or tearing.

Paper Weight

The weight of the paper refers to its thickness and is measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). When it comes to watercolor paper, the ideal weight range is between 140-300 lbs or 300-640 gsm. The higher the weight, the thicker and more absorbent the paper will be, allowing for better color saturation and blending.

Cold Press vs Hot Press

There are two main types of finishes for watercolor paper: cold press and hot press. Cold press paper has a textured surface with a slight tooth, while hot press paper has a smooth surface. Cold press is more commonly used by artists as it allows for better paint control and creates interesting textures in your artwork. However, if you prefer a smoother finish or are working on detailed pieces, hot press may be a better option.

Paper Sizing

Sizing refers to the coating applied to the surface of the paper to prevent paint from being absorbed too quickly. This allows for more control over your brushstrokes and prevents colors from bleeding into each other. There are two types of sizing: internal (added during production) and external (applied after production). Internal sizing provides better results as it penetrates deeper into the fibers.

Brand

The brand of your 100% cotton watercolor paper can also play a significant role in its quality. Some well-known brands include Arches, Fabriano, Saunders Waterford, and Strathmore. It’s always best to do some research on different brands’ quality and pricing before making a purchase.

Price

The price of 100% cotton watercolor paper can vary depending on its weight, size, brand, and number of sheets in a pack. It’s essential to consider your budget when making your purchase but keep in mind that investing in high-quality paper will result in better-looking artwork.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when purchasing 100% cotton watercolor paper consider its weight, finish, sizing type,
brand reputation,and price.
Personally,I have found that Arches cold press
paper with internal sizing works best for me due to its durability,textured surface,and ability to handle multiple layers
of paint without warping.However,it’s crucial to experiment with different brands,types,and weights
to find what works best for your unique style.Good luck on your search for the perfect 100%
cotton watercolor papere!

Author Profile

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Bradd Kern
Bradd Kern, originally from New England, is deeply passionate about natural products and environmental conservation. As a co-founder of Sea Bottle, based in Newport Beach, California, Bradd has been instrumental in creating skincare products that are as kind to your body as they are to our oceans.

Under his guidance, Sea Bottle has committed to eco-friendly practices at every stage—from conception to delivery—ensuring that each product not only nourishes the skin but also upholds the health of our marine environments.

Driven by a revelation about the toxic chemicals prevalent in everyday personal care products, Bradd set out to offer healthier and more aesthetically pleasing alternatives. This commitment is evident in Sea Bottle’s use of ocean-inspired essential oils, marine ingredients, and recyclable materials.

His efforts extend beyond product formulation to include support for crucial environmental causes, with a portion of every sale benefiting organizations such as the Lonely Whale Foundation and Rigs-To-Reefs.