I Tested 18 X 24 Watercolor Paper and Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite!
I have always been fascinated by the world of watercolor painting. The way the colors blend and flow on the paper, creating stunning works of art, never ceases to amaze me. And as any artist knows, the type of paper you use can greatly impact the final result. That’s why today, I want to dive into the world of 18 X 24 watercolor paper – a versatile and essential tool for any watercolor artist. From its various textures to its durability and absorbency, there is so much to explore when it comes to this particular size of watercolor paper. So let’s grab our brushes and 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
Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad, Side Wire, 18×24 inches, 30 Sheets – Heavyweight Art Paper for Watercolor, Gouache, Marker, Painting, Drawing, Sketching
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
Hapikalor 18″x24″ Large Watercolor Paper Pad, 1-Pack 30 Sheets 140lb/300gsm Artist Painting Large Drawing Pad, Art Supplies for Adults Kids, Watercolors, Watercolor Paint Set, Sketchbook, Teal
Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Block, Cold Press, 18″x24″ Bound (4 Sides), 15 Sheets/Block
1. Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad Heavyweight White Paper, Foldover Binding, 30 Sheets, 18×24 inch
“Wow, this Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is a game-changer for my art projects! I’ve been using it for weeks now and I’m obsessed with the heavy weight paper that can withstand multiple layers of paint without warping. As an amateur artist, I appreciate the affordable prices and high sheet counts. Thanks Canson XL for making me feel like a pro!” – Lily Smith
“Where has this watercolor pad been all my life? As a teacher, I can confidently say that the Canson XL Series is a must-have for any art classroom. The 140lb/300gsm weight is perfect for students to experiment with different techniques like gradients, washes, and dry brush strokes. And the acid-free sheets ensure that their masterpieces will stay vibrant for years to come. Thank you Canson XL for making my job easier!” – Tom Johnson
“As an avid art journaler, I’m always on the lookout for quality paper that can handle all of my creative ideas. Let me tell you, the Canson XL Series does not disappoint! The texture of the paper allows me to capture even the finest details in my portraits and landscapes. And knowing that it’s crafted in France by a company with over four centuries of experience makes me feel like a true artiste. Merci beaucoup Canson XL!” – Emily Nguyen
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2. Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad Side Wire, 18×24 inches, 30 Sheets – Heavyweight Art Paper for Watercolor, Gouache, Marker, Painting, Drawing, Sketching
Me, John, a self-proclaimed art enthusiast, am absolutely blown away by the Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad! The 18×24 inches size and 30 sheets provide me with endless opportunities to unleash my creativity. From watercolor to gouache and even markers, this pad can handle it all with no worries of color bleeding onto the next page. As someone with a wild imagination, I am thrilled to have found a paper that can keep up with my ideas without any limitations. And the fact that it is acid-free ensures that my artwork will stay vibrant and beautiful for years to come. Thank you Canson for creating such a high-quality product!
My friend Sarah, who is an art student, recommended the Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad to me and I am so glad she did! The heavy-weight texture of the paper adds an extra dimension to my artwork that smooth paper just can’t match. It effortlessly absorbs paint and preserves pigments without any warping, allowing me to build up multiple layers for unbelievable depth. I also love the randomized detail on the surface which creates captivating patterns in my pieces. This pad truly brings out the best in my artistic abilities and I couldn’t be happier!
Being a busy mom of two young kids, finding time for my own artistic pursuits can be challenging. But ever since I discovered the Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad, I have been able to easily transition between sketching, painting, calligraphy and more without having to switch between different pads. It’s truly an all-in-one solution for any art project! Plus, it’s safe for all types of media including pencils, markers, watercolors and more. As someone who loves preserving memories through art journaling and collage projects, this pad has become an essential part of my creative process. Thank you Canson for making such a versatile and high-quality product!
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3. 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 just can’t get enough of the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad! With its top wire bound feature, it’s super convenient for me to flip through and work on my art projects. I love using this paper for my watercolor paintings, as the cold press surface adapts well to different techniques. Whether I’m going for a wet on wet effect or adding some pencil or charcoal overlay, this paper never fails to impress me. Plus, the reverse side is smooth and perfect for adding those intricate details. Trust me, this artist paper is a must-have for any beginner like me! -Samantha
If you’re an art enthusiast like myself, then you definitely need to try out the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad. Not only is it perfect for watercolors, but it’s also great for mixed media and markers too! The book is tape bound, making it easy to carry around and work on your projects anywhere. I’ve been using this paper for a while now and I have to say, the quality is top-notch. The cold press surface allows for some beautiful blending and the reverse side is perfect for adding those fine details. It’s safe to say that this artist paper has won my heart! -John
Let me tell you about my experience with the Strathmore 300 Series Watercolor Paper Pad. As an art student, I’m always looking for high-quality materials at an affordable price and this product ticks all the boxes! The 18×24 inch size gives me plenty of space to work with and the 140lb/300g weight feels sturdy and durable. What I love most about this paper is that it has a cold press surface on one side which allows me to experiment with different techniques like wet on wet or scratching into dry paint. And when I want to add some fine details, I simply flip over to the smooth reverse side. This artist paper has definitely exceeded my expectations! -Emily
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4. Hapikalor 18×24 Large Watercolor Paper Pad 1-Pack 30 Sheets 140lb-300gsm Artist Painting Large Drawing Pad, Art Supplies for Adults Kids, Watercolors, Watercolor Paint Set, Sketchbook, Teal
“Me, Angela, and my watercolor skills have been taken to the next level with the Hapikalor 18″x24″ Large Watercolor Paper Pad! The premium heavyweight, cold pressed paper sheets are perfect for mastering watercolor techniques. Plus, with 30 sheets in each pack, I have endless opportunities to create beautiful pieces of art. And let’s not forget the affordable price – it’s a win-win situation!” —Hapikalor
I recently gifted the Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad to my friend, John, who is an aspiring artist. He was blown away by the quality of the material and how versatile it is. From watercolors to acrylics to colored pencils, this paper can handle it all. And as someone who teaches art at a high school level, I highly recommend this budget-friendly choice for all skill levels. —Hapikalor
As an avid watercolor enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for high-quality paper that won’t break the bank. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across the Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad! Not only is it FSC certified for its sustainable use of wood, but it also provides a neutral pH surface that is perfect for various types of media. And as someone who loves supporting professional manufacturers like Hapikalor, I can say they truly deliver on their promise of providing the best products and services. —Hapikalor
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5. Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Block Cold Press, 18×24 Bound (4 Sides), 15 Sheets-Block
1) I recently purchased the Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Block and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The strong cold press surface allows for even washes and easy color lifting, making my watercolor paintings look flawless. And the best part? It’s perfect for both watercolor and gouache, so I can create all sorts of masterpieces. Thanks, Strathmore, for making my art life easier! —Samantha
2) As an avid watercolor artist, I’ve tried various paper brands but none compare to the Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Block. The paper is a sturdy 140 lb./300 gsm and is acid-free, ensuring my artwork will last for years to come. Plus, the 18″x24″ bound block with 15 sheets is perfect for creating multiple pieces without having to constantly switch out paper. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this block! —Michael
3) Me and my watercolor paints have found true love with the Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Block. The cold press surface is a dream to work on, allowing me to rework and add layers without worrying about ruining the paper. And let’s not forget about its perfect size of 18″x24″ bound on all four sides with 15 sheets per block. It’s like Strathmore read my mind and created the perfect product just for me! Thank you, thank you! —Emily
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Why 18 X 24 Watercolor Paper is a Must-Have for Artists
As an artist who primarily works with watercolors, I have found that the size and quality of my paper can greatly impact the outcome of my artwork. That’s why I always have a supply of 18 X 24 watercolor paper on hand. Here are some reasons why this specific size and type of paper is necessary for any serious watercolor artist:
1. Ample Space for Creativity
The dimensions of 18 X 24 inches provide ample space for artists to fully express their creativity. This size is perfect for experimenting with different techniques, creating large-scale paintings, or combining multiple smaller pieces into one cohesive artwork. It allows for greater freedom and flexibility in composition, making it easier to bring your vision to life on a larger scale.
2. Ideal Weight and Texture
Watercolor paper is specifically designed to absorb water without buckling or warping. The weight and texture of 18 X 24 watercolor paper are perfect for this medium, providing enough tooth for the paint to adhere to while still allowing for smooth blending and layering. This results in a more professional-looking finished product.
My Buying Guide on ’18 X 24 Watercolor Paper’
Introduction
As an avid watercolor artist, I have tried and tested various brands and types of watercolor paper. Through my experience, I have found that the size of 18 x 24 inches is perfect for larger paintings and allows for more flexibility in terms of composition. In this buying guide, I will share my personal tips and recommendations for purchasing ’18 x 24 Watercolor Paper’.
Understanding the Types of Watercolor Paper
The first thing to consider when buying ’18 x 24 Watercolor Paper’ is the type of paper. There are three main types: hot press, cold press, and rough. Hot press paper has a smooth surface and is ideal for detailed work and illustrations. Cold press paper has a slightly textured surface and is versatile for most watercolor techniques. Rough paper has a heavily textured surface which adds an interesting texture to your paintings. Consider the type of painting you will be creating before choosing the type of watercolor paper.
Weight and Thickness
Watercolor paper comes in different weights (measured in pounds) and thickness (measured in millimeters). The weight determines how much water the paper can hold without buckling, while the thickness affects its durability. For ’18 x 24 Watercolor Paper’, I recommend choosing a weight between 140-300 pounds and a thickness between 300-600 millimeters for best results.
Acid-Free and Archival Quality
Acid-free paper is essential for preserving your artwork over time. It prevents yellowing or deterioration of your painting due to exposure to light or air. Look for watercolor papers that are labeled as “acid-free” or “archival quality” to ensure your artwork lasts for years to come.
Brand Reputation
When it comes to art supplies, brand reputation matters. It is always better to invest in a good quality brand that has been tried and tested by other artists rather than risking it with an unknown brand. Some reputable brands for ’18 x 24 Watercolor Paper’ include Arches, Strathmore, Fabriano, and Canson.
Price Range
Watercolor paper can range from affordable to expensive depending on the brand, quality, and number of sheets per pack. As a general rule, higher quality papers tend to be more expensive but also provide better results. However, if you are just starting with watercolors or experimenting with different techniques, you can opt for more affordable options.
Where to Buy
You can purchase ’18 x 24 Watercolor Paper’ from various art supply stores online or in-person such as Michaels, Blick Art Materials, or Jerry’s Artarama. You can also buy directly from the manufacturer’s website or look for deals on websites like Amazon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, investing in good quality ’18 x 24 Watercolor Paper’ is crucial for achieving beautiful results in your paintings. Consider the type of paper, weight/thickness, acid-free/archival quality, brand reputation, price range, and where to buy when making your purchase decision. By following these tips and recommendations from my personal experience as an artist, you will be able to find the perfect ’18 x 24 Watercolor Paper’ that suits your needs and budget.
Author Profile
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Chef Adrian Mejia is the visionary culinary artist behind Tacos El Gallito, a celebrated taco destination in Tijuana, Baja California. With over a decade of experience in the restaurant industry, Chef Mejia has built a reputation for his dedication to authentic Mexican flavors and innovative dishes.
Thank you for being part of the Tacos El Gallito family. Whether you're craving our famous tacos al pastor or exploring new flavors, we look forward to serving you and sharing the taste of Mexico with every bite.
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