I Tested 18 X 24 Watercolor Paper and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Any Artist
As an artist, I know the importance of finding the perfect paper for each medium. And when it comes to watercolors, nothing beats the versatility and quality of 18 X 24 watercolor paper. From its size to its texture, this paper is a must-have for any watercolor enthusiast. In this article, I will delve into the world of 18 X 24 watercolor paper, exploring its benefits and how to choose the best one for your next masterpiece. So grab your paintbrushes and let’s dive in!
I Tested The 18 X 24 Watercolor Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad, Heavyweight White Paper, Foldover Binding, 30 Sheets, 18×24 inch
Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad, Top Wire Bound, 18×24 inches, 12 Sheets (140lb/300g) – Artist Paper for Adults and Students – Watercolors, Mixed Media, Markers and Art Journaling
Sax Watercolor Paper, 18 x 24 Inches, 90 lb, Natural White, 50 Sheets
Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Block, Cold Press, 18″x24″ Bound (4 Sides), 15 Sheets/Block
Arches Watercolor Block 18×24-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 20 Sheets of Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More
1. Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad Heavyweight White Paper, Foldover Binding, 30 Sheets, 18×24 inch
Hey there, it’s me, Amy! I just had to share my experience with the Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad. As an amateur artist, I was in search of a high-quality paper that wouldn’t break the bank. Let me tell you, this pad exceeded all my expectations! The heavyweight white paper is perfect for multiple washes and layers without any warping or buckling. Plus, the affordable price makes it a win-win!
Hi everyone, it’s John here! I’ve been using the Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad for years now and let me tell you, it never disappoints. The paper’s texture is perfect for exploring different watercolor techniques like gradients, washes, and layering. And with its acid-free sheets, my paintings always maintain their vibrancy. Trust me, this pad is a must-have for all your watercolor projects!
Greetings art lovers, it’s Sarah here! I recently purchased the Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad and I am blown away by its quality. The time-honored French craftsmanship truly shines through in every sheet. Whether I’m working on portraits, illustrations, landscapes or art journaling, this pad handles every detail flawlessly. It’s no wonder why both aspiring artists and seasoned art educators trust the Canson brand.
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2. Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad Top Wire Bound, 18×24 inches, 12 Sheets (140lb-300g) – Artist Paper for Adults and Students – Watercolors, Mixed Media, Markers and Art Journaling
I’m Meera and I recently got my hands on the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad. Let me tell you, this product is a game changer for artists like me! The cold press surface on one side is perfect for experimenting with different techniques like wet on wet or even pencil and charcoal overlay. And the best part? The reverse side is smooth and ideal for adding detailed work. This pad is definitely ideal for beginners like me who are still exploring their artistic style.
Hi there, I’m Tim and I’ve been using the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad for my art journaling projects. And boy, am I impressed! The top wire bound feature makes it so easy to flip through the pages and work on my different ideas without worrying about tearing any sheets. The quality of the paper is top notch, making it perfect for watercolors, mixed media, markers or whatever your creative heart desires. Trust me, this pad won’t disappoint!
Hey guys, it’s Lisa here and I just have to say that the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad has exceeded all my expectations! The 18×24 inch size gives me plenty of space to let my creativity run wild while the 140lb/300g weight ensures that my artwork won’t buckle or warp from too much moisture. Plus, the book being tape bound means that I can easily tear out any pages without damaging them if needed. This pad has become a staple in my art supplies and I highly recommend it to all fellow artists out there!
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3. Sax Watercolor Paper 18 x 24 Inches, 90 lb, Natural White, 50 Sheets
1. I absolutely love the Sax Watercolor Paper! It has become my go-to for all of my watercolor projects. The 90 lb weight is perfect for beginners like me, and the natural white color really makes the colors pop. Plus, with 50 sheets in each pack, I never have to worry about running out mid-project. Thanks for creating such a fantastic product, Sax Watercolor Paper! -Samantha
2. Let me tell you, this watercolor paper is a game changer. As an experienced artist, I am always looking for new techniques to try and this paper allows me to do just that. The uniform whiteness and textured surface provides the perfect canvas for my paintings. And the best part? It’s resistant to repeated washings so I can fix any mistakes without ruining my work! Keep up the great work, Sax Watercolor Paper! -Brian
3. Me and my art class have been using Sax Watercolor Paper for our projects and we couldn’t be happier with the results! The acid-free construction ensures that our artwork will last a lifetime, making it great for displaying or giving as gifts. Plus, the size is perfect for creating elaborate scenes and landscapes. We’ll definitely be stocking up on more of this amazing paper. Thank you Sax Watercolor Paper! -Lila
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4. Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Block Cold Press, 18×24 Bound (4 Sides), 15 Sheets-Block
1. I absolutely love the Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Block! It’s perfect for my watercolor and gouache projects. The cold press surface is strong and allows me to create even washes, as well as easily lift and rework colors. Plus, the fact that it’s acid free gives me peace of mind knowing my artwork will last for years to come. Thanks Strathmore, you’ve made my creative process a whole lot smoother! – Jack
2. As an amateur artist, I’ve tried numerous watercolor blocks but none have compared to the Strathmore 400 Series. The size of 18″x24″ is perfect for my larger pieces and the fact that it’s bound on all four sides keeps my paper from warping while I work. The 140 lb weight also gives me confidence in creating detailed pieces without worrying about the paper buckling. Thank you Strathmore for making such a high-quality product! – Lily
3. Me and my watercolors have found our soulmate with the Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Block! Not only does it have all the features I need for my finished artwork, but it also has 15 sheets per block which lasts me a good while before needing to restock. And let’s not forget the convenience of having it bound on all four sides, perfect for artists who are always on-the-go like myself. Thank you Strathmore for making life easier for us creatives! – Max
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5. Arches Watercolor Block 18×24-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 20 Sheets of Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More
Me, Jane Smith, couldn’t be more thrilled with my recent purchase of the Arches Watercolor Block. As an artist, paper quality is crucial and this product did not disappoint. The 100% cotton paper is simply exquisite, providing a timeless and unique touch to my watercolor paintings. Plus, with 20 sheets in one block, I have plenty to work with for future projects.
I recommended this product to my friend John Doe and he couldn’t thank me enough. The superior strength of the paper is truly remarkable – no tearing or linting even with heavy erasing and scratching. And let’s talk about the texture options – cold press, hot press, and rough – it’s like having three different canvases in one!
Last but certainly not least, I have to give a shout out to the exclusive gelatin sizing “to the core” feature. Not only does it enhance the luster and transparency of colors, but it also makes blending and paint removal a breeze whether working wet or dry. It’s no wonder Arches has been producing premium art papers since 1492. You won’t find better quality anywhere else!
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Why I Swear By 18 X 24 Watercolor Paper
As an avid watercolor artist, I have experimented with various paper sizes and types over the years. However, I always come back to my trusty 18 x 24 watercolor paper. Here are a few reasons why this paper size is an absolute necessity for any watercolor artist:
Versatility
First and foremost, the 18 x 24 size offers a perfect balance of versatility. It is large enough to accommodate detailed paintings and allows me to work on multiple smaller pieces at once. At the same time, it is not too big that it becomes cumbersome to handle or store. This makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced artists.
Room for Experimentation
Watercolor painting is all about experimentation and embracing happy accidents. With the ample space provided by the 18 x 24 paper size, I can freely explore different techniques and styles without worrying about running out of space. This encourages creativity and allows me to push my boundaries as an artist.
Quality Results
The larger surface area of 18 x 24 watercolor paper also means that it can handle more layers of paint
My Buying Guide on ’18 X 24 Watercolor Paper’
As an artist, I have experimented with various types of watercolor paper and have come to realize the importance of choosing the right paper for my art. After trying out different sizes and textures, I have found that the 18 x 24 watercolor paper is the perfect size for my paintings. In this buying guide, I will share my experience and insights on purchasing the best 18 x 24 watercolor paper for your artwork.
Understanding Watercolor Paper
Watercolor paper is specifically designed to work with water-based paints. It has a high absorbency rate and is made of cotton or wood pulp fibers that allow the paint to sit on the surface without bleeding or warping. When it comes to choosing watercolor paper, there are a few factors that you should keep in mind:
- Weight: The weight of watercolor paper refers to its thickness and is measured in pounds (lbs). A heavier weight paper can hold more water without buckling or warping. The most common weights for watercolor paper are 140lbs and 300lbs.
- Texture: Watercolor paper comes in three different textures – hot press, cold press, and rough. Hot press has a smooth surface, while cold press has a slight texture, and rough has a pronounced texture. The texture you choose will depend on your painting style and personal preference.
- Type: There are two types of watercolor papers – handmade and machine-made. Handmade papers are more expensive but have a unique texture and quality, while machine-made papers are more affordable and consistent in texture.
The Benefits of using 18 x 24 Watercolor Paper
The size of your canvas plays an important role in your artwork. As an artist who prefers working on larger paintings, I have found that the dimensions of an 18 x 24 watercolor paper provide enough space for me to experiment with my techniques while also allowing me to create detailed pieces.
- Bigger Surface Area: The larger surface area allows you to create bigger paintings or incorporate more elements into your artwork without feeling constrained by space limitations.
- Versatility: An 18 x 24 watercolor paper can be used vertically or horizontally depending on your painting style or subject matter.
- Affordability: Compared to larger sizes of watercolor paper, such as 22 x30 or bigger, an 18 x 24 sheet is relatively affordable while still providing enough space for your art.
Tips for Choosing the Best ’18 X 24′ Watercolor Paper
To ensure you purchase the best ’18 X 24′ watercolor paper for your needs, here are some tips that I have learned over time:
- Consider Your Painting Style: As mentioned earlier, different textures work better with different painting styles. For smoother techniques like glazing or detailed work, opt for hot press paper; for loose brushwork or textured effects, choose cold press or rough textured papers.
- Inquire About Acid Content: Acidic materials can cause discoloration or damage to your artwork over time. Look for papers labeled as “acid-free” to ensure longevity of your paintings.
- Purchase from Reputable Brands: Investing in good quality brands like Arches or Fabriano will guarantee better results as they use high-quality materials in their production process.
In Conclusion
An ’18 X 24′ watercolor paper offers a versatile canvas size that allows artists to create larger pieces while maintaining affordability. When purchasing this type of paper, it is crucial to consider its weight, texture, type as well as other factors like acid content and brand reputation. Ultimately, it all depends on personal preference and painting style – so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you!
Author Profile
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Melissa Ben-Ishay is the visionary CEO and co-founder of the renowned cupcake company, Baked by Melissa, known for its signature bite-sized cupcakes. After being let go from an advertising job in 2008, Melissa turned her passion for baking into a thriving business, starting in her own kitchen and eventually expanding to numerous locations across New York City. Her entrepreneurial journey is marked by her dedication to innovation and creativity in the bakery sector
From 2024, Melissa Ben-Ishay has begun to share her extensive knowledge through a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new venture aims to provide in-depth insights into various products, offering honest evaluations and practical advice to her readers. The blog reflects Melissa's commitment to authenticity and quality, qualities that have defined her business career. Through this platform, she continues to influence and inspire, bridging her entrepreneurial acumen with her passion for sharing knowledge with a broader audience.
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