In this blog, we discuss our preference for using pen and ink on smoother hot-press paper when creating artwork. And most importantly, choosing the right type of paper based on the medium being used will determine how your artwork turns out.
My wife and I frequently travel to Italy (typically leading and teaching pleinaire to 30-80 adult artists)using watercolor and pen and ink. These trips are always a joyful experience for us. Believe it or not, the paper makes a difference.
The sketchpad I prefer to use with traveling is a leather-bound, manmade (or cotton mold) paper that can be found at most art supply stores and serves well for travel due to its portability. It's important to note that while the leather-bound book is fantastic, it's also important to take into consideration a smaller sketch paper, which can be placed in a bag for bringing along during the exploration of where you are.
The Choice of Paper
In talking about Watercolor Paper, we look at two aspects:
Paper type: The difference between hot press and cold press paper, and how they affect the outcome of pen and ink drawings.
Art and creativity: When using these sketch pads you want to keep your drawing sizes 4x6 or 6x9. When on location you just do not have the time to capture the essence of the moment. It will also allow you to simplify and spend more time looking, and sensing is capturing what you are after.
Some key points:
Hot press paper is preferred for pen and ink drawings because it produces a smoother finish.
Cold press paper has a more textured surface and may be better suited for certain types of art or techniques.
you might want to consider a block of watercolor paper to prevent any warping while working.
smaller size pads and try doing two drawings on each page.
The choice of paper for creating artwork, specifically focusing on watercolor paintings using pen and ink techniques is important.
Hot Press Watercolor Paper
Hot press watercolor paper is designed specifically for use with watercolor paints and is characterized by its smooth surface texture. This type of paper has been finely textured to provide a consistent absorbency that allows water and paint to evenly distribute across the surface, making it ideal for artists who prefer more even coverage and controlled color application.
Hot-press watercolor paper is generally considered good for:
Beginners: The uniform surface texture of hot press paper can be easier to handle for those new to watercolor painting, as it provides a stable platform that minimizes the risk of uneven paint absorption or feathering.
Achieving even color distribution: Because the paper's surface is smooth and non-porous, water and pigment tend to spread evenly across the surface when applied, which can be beneficial for achieving consistent, vibrant hues without excessive bleeding into surrounding areas.
Layering colors: The smooth texture of hot press paper allows for easier layering of different shades and tones, enabling artists to build up color smoothly without creating unwanted textures or marks from brushstrokes.
Portability: For some artists, the consistency of hot press paper can provide a more manageable surface that's less likely to warp or buckle when transported between locations or stored in various conditions.
Overall, hot-press watercolor paper is ideal for achieving smooth, controlled washes and layers with watercolors due to its even texture and absorbent qualities. Specifically when Pen and Ink is included as a medium with the watercolor.
Cold Press Water Color Paper
Cold press watercolor paper is particularly well-suited for artists who prefer a textured surface that absorbs water slowly, allowing for more control over the paint application and stroke direction. This type of paper has a slightly rougher finish compared to hot press or smooth surfaces, which can create interesting textures and variations in color saturation when using watercolor paints.
Cold press watercolor paper is often recommended for beginners and intermediate artists who want to work on looser, more gestural compositions where the texture and subtle variations in tone are important elements of the artwork. The tooth (or roughness) of cold press paper can also help certain types of watercolor pigments adhere better to the surface, which might not perform as optimally on smoother surfaces like hot press paper.
Additionally, for experienced artists who enjoy experimenting with different techniques, cold press paper can be a great medium to create works that have a more rustic, hand-painted feel, suitable for both traditional and contemporary styles of watercolor painting.
We hope this helps!
Just a couple of important links for products:
Strathmore Watercolor Post Cards: https://www.strathmoreartist.com/cards-greeting/watercolor-postcards
Arches Aquarelle: https://arches-papers.com/arches-range-of-papers/watercolor-and-wet-techniques/arches-aquarelle/
Pentalic Aqua Journal: https://www.pentalic.com/aqua-journals/
It's important to slow down and experience life, as well as tell stories through one's art.
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