WHAT IS THE BEST PAPER TO USE FOR COLORED PENCIL? Colored pencil works well on many surfaces like drawing paper, pastel paper, or watercolor paper —it works great even on wood, canvas and many other substrates. THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PAPER TEXTURE/FINISH — refers to the smoothness or roughness of a paper. This is noticeable in watercolor paper (Hot press, Cold Press, Rough) and in pastel paper. The choice of texture is a matter of personal preference; it depends on the look that you want to achieve. TOOTH — paper has microscopic grains that allow it to hold the pigment in place. The more tooth the paper has means the more layers of colors can be applied. The more layers it can handle the better. ACID FREE — ordinary paper deteriorates in time and will result in discoloration such as yellowing or fading which can have adverse effect on an artwork. You need to use acid free paper if you want your art to last for a long time. ARCHIVAL or MUSEUM GRADE — this is more permanent and durable than regular acid free paper but more expensive as well. This kind of paper will not fade or discolor and is expected to last for more than 100 years. WHAT KIND PAPER DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR BEGINNERS? DRAWING OR SKETCH PADS Affordable and great for starting out. It doesn’t take many layers but it’s enough for practicing the basic techniques. WATERCOLOR PAPER It comes in several finish/texture, Hot Press (smooth), Cold Press (in between Hot Press and Rough), and Rough. A smooth surface is ideal for beginners. These can be bought in pads, sheets, or rolls. It can take many layers and also can be used for watercolor pencils. OTHER SELECTIONS Stonehenge, Bristol Vellum/Smooth, Canson Mi-Teintes (use the smooth side), Strathmore Artagain Drawing Paper, Strathmore 400 series Colored Pencil Paper. CONCLUSION The best art supplies are not the ones used or recommended by famous CP artists, the best art supplies are the ones that work for you. Different colored pencils behave differently on different kinds of paper under the hands of different artists. As you gain more experience you will find the right match of colored pencil and paper that will suit your style.
2 Comments
sarahharas
10/21/2012 07:23:49 am
Thanks for sharing, I always like to read your updates
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Hendrik Hermans
10/24/2012 02:38:38 pm
Interesting article. Very encouraging for all beginners.
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Bleuie AcostaSharing with you my knowledge and experience in the art of colored pencils. Your colour pencil drawings are an inspiration to me as you show what can be done with these pencils and introduce a variety of colours which I would not think of using. Thank you. --Valerie Clare
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