Which Papers Held up Best? Glazing, Lifting & Masking.

Lifting and Masking on watercolor paper are two important characteristics for me. For some time I've wanted to do head to head comparisons. So... here we go! Buckle up. This is a good one!
Intro - 0:00
The Tests: Papers - 2:20
The Tests: Setup - 4:11
Paint Lifting - 6:55
Masking Fluid Lifting - 9:48
Glazing Test - 10:32
Conclusions - 11:19
Final Words - 28:43
Mind of Watercolor, 10-color Watercolor Set (M. Graham)
- wetpaintart.com/graham-wc-ste...
Colors used in this video (in mixes):
- Red Iron Oxide
- Phthalo Green BS
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Watercolor Papers Compared:
• Arches - amzn.to/3yRK0bd
• Saunders Waterford - amzn.to/3AztSf8
• Canson Heritage - amzn.to/3yoKjZq
• Fabriano Artistico - amzn.to/3ynK157
• Strathmore 500 - amzn.to/3uxKHDT
• Winsor Newton Pro - amzn.to/3OUJzSK
• Kilimanjaro - Found Exclusively at CheapJoes.com
• Hahnemühle Collection - amzn.to/3akxFms
• Stonehenge Aqua - amzn.to/3yRdZ2R
Mijello Air Tight 18-Well Palette - amzn.to/3c8fiSy
Pebeo Drawing Gum - amzn.to/3CewAI7
Rubber Cement Pickup - amzn.to/3QA4zit
Silver Brush Black Velvet 1/2" Flat - amzn.to/3T2HTZZ
Princeton Aqua Elite 1/2" - amzn.to/3prLJ1n
Creative Mark Scrubbers - amzn.to/3QDTcX5
••••••••••••• Other Supplies ••••••••••••••
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[@s.k.3483]

These types of videos are so invaluable and no one else does them as thoroughly...so thankful for this.

[@chris.369]

Awesome tests, thank you! Just an information from an art store here in France: Canson Heritage won’t be produced anymore. Canson will keep producing Arches only. So, those who like this paper, get it now from the shops that still have stocks of it.

[@aetyrunner]

But why!? Is such a good paper…

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks but just so you know. Canson does NOT make Arches paper and never has nor have they ever owned the Arches brand. This is a myth that keeps getting repeated. The Canson logo appeared on Arches paper products for awhile because they were once both owned by the same parent company Arjowiggins. During that time Canson became an Arches distributor in the US and the Canson brand appeared on the back. Arches has always been made in the same location in France since 1492. Arches was owned until 2020 by Ahlstrom-Munksjo but has recently been acquired by FILA and once again is owned by the same company that acquired Canson. However, Canson is still not an owner of the Arches brand nor does it have any part in the manufacture of Arches papers.

[@greekveteran2715]

@@mindofwatercolor The longer a company exists, the better the product they make. Faber Castell, Arches are a great example.

[@grannieannie1371]

And this is why I use Saunders . Arche is probably, a better but in Australia but is literally twice the price. Thanks for the comparison MOW.

[@kirstynewbery8012]

That's if you can get it. Arches available anywhere, Saunders not so much.

[@greekveteran2715]

That depends on where you're at. I'd never had the chance, to get Saunders paper, none sells it here.

[@zararandle6555]

Hi! Thank you for this test, we do not get so many brands here in Pakistan, but thank God Arches is available and a few more from your list. I am a new water colorist (started rather late in life at 67) and have definitely benefited from your videos alot.

[@pattycyr8662]

Thanks for the information. It's enlightening because I had always thought the ease or uneasiness to lift is solely due to the pigment - not also the paper. I also had not considered that regarding masking. Great video!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Paint brand sometimes makes a difference as well as staining or non staining pigments. One of the reasons I use one of each.

[@kirstynewbery8012]

I do love your Trekky references! Live long and prosper! Great test video I appreciate your use of resources and time to show us comparisons

[@recoveringsoul755]

This is great, because most of us don't have access to that many papers at once.

[@chrislora8895]

Thank you for taking the time to do this for your viewers.

[@polgara28]

Excellent video! I love tests and experiments. Thank you for taking the time to do this, and share your findings. Love this channel! ❤

[@martimalaspina6385]

Fascinating !!! Steve.... thank you... I love it 🤗 Very informative and well done ✅

[@wulfseig1864]

Extremely helpful. Thanks for all your time and effort.

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

Oh wow thanks for sharing this kind of testing on theses papers. I definitely understand how the cheaper pulp paper response to this kind of test. This will help me hugely with deciding on which high quality paper to use for certain projects.

[@a.r.4416]

Profound and useful! Definitely i need to throw away my old masking fluids! Thanks a million ❣

[@lawrencecordeirosr.3462]

Hi Steve, enjoy your helpful tutorials. A few years ago one of the students in a local watercolor class I attend suggested adding (ammonia) to my old Pebeo Gum as a thinner. I recently bought a new bottle that probably been sitting on a shelf too long, and to loosen it up I added about half a dozen drops of ammonia (eyedropper), and stirred it slowly. After removing the heavy clumps, I found the remaining liquid flowed very nicely and responded like new. Early testing is very positive.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yes, I've heard this suggested too. I might have to try it.

[@Ann-ey1tw]

Very interesting and full of helpful tips!

[@tararosin8613]

This a very good explanation about watercolor and all the different techniques - masking, glazing, scrubbing, etc. thank you 😊 for your informative video

[@revrenzo1773]

Great episode! Thank you.

[@Shuvah2Him]

Good testing! Thanks! You save us a lot of frustration!

[@sergiomeneses9516]

Your videos are informative and practical. Thank you, I have learned a lot from you.

[@sharonsunshine2532]

I've reviewed this video many times . It's so helpful! 👍

[@SVNopq]

Very informative. Thank you! Arches is my go-to paper.

[@marta1378]

Wow that was so much work 😳 THANK YOU.

[@eileengoldenberg270]

Great, That was allot of work.. I test my glazes and keep track of the results.. important to remember what happened. Thanks Steve!

[@marlenafamamalfitano9196]

really valuable and a real eye-opener. Very useful

[@mscaryl]

I’ve been gradually going through your tutorials and find them immensely informative and helpful. I don’t know how many times I’ve given up on watercolors and eventually return but make the same mistakes all over again. Thank goodness for YT and your quality lessons and information! At 70+ it’s about time❤TY❤

[@duke2011ful]

Same here!

[@annettehansen6329]

Great test! Thank you

[@JC-il4or]

Once again I learned some things from your videos! One important datum for a paint hoarder like me is that I should probably trash my ancient masking fluids. 🤭 Oh yes, I will test. I like Strathmore 500 series, and will try the WN. You saved me the trouble of buying the Heritage which has been in and out of my Amazon basket several times. My history with Canson hasn't been stellar. And thanks for the tip on pilling on "other" papers-I thought it was just me... Thank you!

[@ginaschissler9887]

Excellent test Thanks so much!

[@stephengaul8579]

Thanks Steve for the great information. I use Arches for most of my paintings and Fabriano Artistico extra white for sunsets and nocturnes when I want lights to glow in the painting.

[@jaynemartlew5762]

Fascinating! 😁 thank you .

[@lmac_z]

That was so informative. Thank you so much.

[@jdschneider5858]

Oh my goodness, that was wonderful. How thorough. I had the same experience with Stonehenge Aqua and Pebeo Masking Fluid in front of a class -- rather embarrassing. I was told, a long time ago, that if the paper gets roughened, to use my nail to smooth it. I don't do that much, but it might help.

[@SteveAtkinsonFineArt]

A great and well-thought-out comparison Steve! I always wondered if Arches is worth the extra expense. For a duffer like me who doesn't watercolor as often as I'd like and who uses gouache over watercolor instead of masking, maybe not. But when I get around to being serious about leveling up, then absolutely yes. Thanks for all of the hard work that went into this video!! Hope you're doing well and having a great Summer!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Hey Steve. Thanks so much for chiming in. Yeah it's a test I've wondered about for literally decades and just decided it was time to knuckle down and get to it since I had been trying so many other papers also. Doing well here, hope you are as well.

[@SteveAtkinsonFineArt]

@@mindofwatercolor Well, as a fan, I appreciate the thought and work it takes to make something like this! It's really eye-opening the differences in the characteristics in papers and what an influence they can have on the success of a painting. I use one kind of linen canvas and have for years. I can't even imagine doing a test like this for all of the different oil painting surfaces that are available to review. We're well here in Central Arizona. Finally, we have had a great monsoon season. Everything is so green here that we got a "cease and desist" order from Ireland which is jealous of just how green we are, ha! Cheers!

[@susanyoung1600]

Hey, I've seen your work and a duffer you are not! Whatever you choose to use is working for you in spades!

[@SteveAtkinsonFineArt]

@@susanyoung1600 Aw, thanks Susan, much appreciated!

[@susanyoung1600]

@@SteveAtkinsonFineArt Your welcome. Love the attitude, though. Humility never stops learning.

[@barbaramilbradt2188]

I love tests! (If it has to do with watercolor) This was so informative!! Thank you!

[@tynaheadrick-phipps6768]

Great video. I learned a lot from it. I have been following you since my watercolor journey started about two years ago. Somehow I missed the tip regarding the scrubber brush, so glad I heard it today🤓. I have been using Fabriano Artistico and Arches for about 18 months now, it was a game changer to use 100% cotton paper☺️. I do have a bit of Bee Paper for practice, not as bad as pulp paper. Thanks again fora very informative video.

[@SharonH11100]

Super-duper ~ Thanks!👍🏼

[@greekveteran2715]

I use Arched hot pressed for Graphite Aquarelle Sketching, works the best for me, also the drawings look somehow better than other papers! Then for dry mediums like Graphite pencils and Charcoal ,I use Fabriano Artistico, Hot Pressed. For Pen and ink, fineliners illustrations, the Canson 1557 180gr works superb, while is also very inexpensive. I still haven't find a paper, that I'd say I love for using with Polychromos, so it's Gesso that does wonders, but also eats the pencils faster. Maybe Fabriano Artistico HP for Pro use or the Daler Rowney Heavyweight Fine Grain, for beginners, are probably my suggestions from what I've used with Polychromos. Videos like these, are gold, for both beginners and more experienced people in my opinion. Thanks for making it, I appreciate your efforts!

[@kacydodson4888]

Thanks! That was an awesome video!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thank you for the support!

[@valeriegehling4358]

I recently found an old practice piece of mine CP Haehnemuehle paper, Schmincke paints & in cupboard from 25 yrs ago! I lifted paint & it lifted very well! I’d lifted for fun so just thought as you’ve taken the trouble to test so many for us you’d like to know. Thanks for showing us your results!

[@daruleos]

i loved this video! very informative. the tests you did really suit the techniques that i personally use and i'm excited to try some of the papers i haven't from this line up (specially that saunders). I have some strong opinions on Stonhenge Aqua but i'll leave that for another comment haha. Great video as always!

[@yukonveg6904]

Thank you for this test. As a new watercolorist I found this helpful to find a decent paper that takes lifting and minimizes piling. I am not quite ready for masking, but I do lift a lot and I have had issues with piling on my paper. I probably go to hard with my brush when I lift or I use to much water when layering.

[@dianakoeppel3492]

Thank you!👍

[@scottmcgonagle3102]

Thanks for your work in showing us what we need to know Steve!! I have found some similar results as you described with pulp paper. Not good to be used for scrubbing!! I do use Arches and Fabriano Artistico with my work. Thanks again!

[@musia1861]

Very nice. Thanks a lot,

[@betsylt]

This is so helpful. I inherited a variety of watercolor supplies, including 3 brands of paper. I have have been wondering about the quality and characteristics of it all.

[@Kandicookheller]

Thank you for a wonderful and informative video. I have trouble with pencil marks being hard or impossible to erase after removing masking fluid. I'm now trying masking tape and a glass cutting board and blade. I want to try the film too.

[@us5634]

Great video. Thank you for this. Due to the rising costs, I am trying out other paper besides Arches. It is at least 30% more than Saunders, Kilimanjaro, Fabriano. Just can't justify the cost when the other papers will do the job. Again, thanks for this test.

[@JAColemanAU]

Love the t-shirt 😀

[@kerry5586]

Thank you for this comprehensive testing: it is much appreciated by people like me that are new to watercolour and not in a position to try all the different papers. I had to watch your video with the sound off and the captions on and I shall forever think of the 'Hahnemühle Collection' as the 'animal collection' and the 'honeymoon' paper: it seems auto captions do not know what to do with Hahnemuhle!

[@Sherlock2022]

Thanks for taking the time to test these papers. I followed a tip only today that advised on wetting the paper and dropping in masking fluid for a soft effect background. On removing the said fluid, the paper tore to shreds! It was some unbranded loose A5 sheets, supposedly 100% cotton.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Never wet the paper OR thin the mask. It will sink in deeper and create the problem you experienced.

[@Sherlock2022]

@@mindofwatercolor yes, it did seem counterintuitive. Needless to say, I won’t be trying this again. But the artist, (who’s book I saw the tip in) has produced some great paintings and I thought I’d emulate his style. Thanks again.

[@CS-kp2bd]

Best watercolor paper test video I’ve seen on KZbin. Could you do a test on Fluid 100% cotton as well?

[@catbraunwell6450]

Hi Steve thanks for this video. It’s very interesting. Just thought I’d let you know that my favorite mask has switched from Pebeo to the Molotow pen style one. It lasts a long time because it never sees the air. Great for Travel too.

[@a.r.4416]

One potential idea for your "testing laboratory"? I am all mixed up with different colour names and terms watercolour makers give to their products. Could you perhaps clarify that jungle a bit? You certainly do profound and giving videos, i thank you for each and everyone of them! Hugs from Finland!

[@Airbrush208]

I'm a timid speedfreak watercolor sissy,I did not know that,great video, great description of some major things I've experienced but did not know the details to correct it,my painting are sure too improve,I need to SLOW DOWN..THANKS SO VERY MUCH.

[@nancyrichwine929]

Good info from your test, thorough as always. I will try your method to compare Arches with a newer cotton paper I’ve been using Bee Paper Co, 140lb cold pressed, packaging notes internally & externally sized, “of European origin, packaged in US”

[@ralphcrosby9622]

Thank you

[@TheVOLTAGEVIDEOS]

Thank you! This confirms my personal dislike of any Stonehenge paper. The sad part is that it's the only brand of black watercolor paper I can find to use my metallic watercolors

[@mindofwatercolor]

Stonehenge still paints very well though. I have no reservations about using it when mask is not involved.

[@crohillhouse]

I just did a painting on Stonehenge Aqua that had quite a lot of masking on it. I had a brand new bottle of Winsor Newton mask that I used and let it dry very thoroughly before lifting. I don't use my rubber cement eraser the way you do though. I use it to lift a small bit then peel the mask up, similar to how one pulls up a sticker. I had absolutely no damage to the paper using this method with this masking fluid on the Sontehenge Aqua. I've definitely had my disasters in the past with masking fluid so I am really, really careful with it now.

[@dao8805]

Thank you for the very worthwhile video with important information. In the future could you please include Fluid 100 in comparisons of watercolor papers? A product specialist at one of the major online art supply retailers said he thinks more water-colorists are starting to catch on to what a great option it is in terms of quality and price point - he stated it is his personal favorite after Arches. I would appreciate seeing how it would compare with the other papers you reviewed with respect to lifting, glazing and especially handling masking fluid.

[@mindofwatercolor]

I have some but don't like it much. May give it a try again though. It's been a while.

[@ChrissieNicely]

Wow! Thank you, Steve!! I can confirm that Hahnemühle Collection paper is not best used for masking with masking fluid. It is definitely an improvement to their other professional papers and I had high hopes when it was launched (since I live in Germany), but have had one or two disappointments using Schmincke masking fluid which is fairly stiff when dry (compared to others). I have had the Pebeo before but didn't need to use it until it had formed a gel in the bottle! 😅

[@jennw6809]

Thank you for the warning. I love Collection paper and also the new cotton sketchbook is nice, but it can't even handle tape much less masking fluid. I had mask just sink right into the paper and bond to it :(

[@starr-starr]

Yep! So true! Nice otherwise

[@mindofwatercolor]

I've experienced the "gel" state. It will re-stir to a degree. I usually stir it up (don't shake) then let it sit and come back and stir it again a couple times. There is a solvent in the mix that will reconstitute it somewhat unless it's simply gotten too old. That happens too.

[@ChrissieNicely]

@@mindofwatercolorThank you for this helpful advice! I will definitely give it a try! 😊

[@glorioskiola]

Really interesting test. I use Arches for anything I care about. Recently got a sample of Stonehenge, used Winsor & Newton masking, let it sit overnight, and the next day it came off cleanly. I haven’t found Fabriano Artistico a good paper for me. It’s very soft (damages easily) and I find that washes don’t flow evenly, always look blotchy.

[@jennw6809]

Great tests! I recommend Rosemary & Co's "eradicator brush" for lifting. It's fibers that they use for acrylic paint brushes and they make them in a super-bright length so they are firm but gentle. A scrubber you can scrub with. (I also love their natural hair brushes, and they are such a good deal they make up for the shipping cost.)

[@mindofwatercolor]

I still would advise never scrubbing no matter how soft the brush. Just keep working the brush lightly until the results are achieved. Pressure just roughs up your paper more.

[@jennw6809]

@@mindofwatercolor True, but it's still way gentler than a hog bristle brush and works much better so less strokes are necessary. Just stroking it gently does wonders.

[@mmart829]

Thank you so much for this test! I've actually been using Hahnemühle Collection hot press a lot lately and I was super excited to get a local department store supply it....but. I like to work in layers and build up colors little by little since I'm more used to colored pencils and how they function. I've started to notice more and more that the paint lifts way too easily. My Rembrandt Spring Green practically went POOF when I tried to add another color on top to deepen areas. I do use lifting a lot to soften areas and correct mistakes. But it's starting to look like I need to choose either/or. I do have some Fabriano and Saunders Waterford in my cupboard so I need to spring them out. I remember having some problems with both but it was years ago and my technique has improved since then. Also I've always wondered how on Earth can any sane person paint with traditional gouache since it just melts all over the place and lifts but maybe I should test it on paper that doesn't make paint go poof. Another paper that lifts very easily is Canson Moulin DuRoy. I love the paper to death especially when finishing up with colored pencils but man is it hard to layer anything on it.

[@larrygrenier621]

Thanks!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thank YOU!

[@patriciasell]

Thx for the tutorial Steve. I haven't viewed any on hiding mistakes or importantly using erasers w colored watercolor pencils etc. Would you consider doing a future tutorial?

[@danielleb.7055]

Thank you for these comparisons always appreciate your videos. I have tried only a few papers and one that I really didn't like at all was Stonehenge. I expected it to be a better quality and work better than it did. I dont do any rough techniques and it just didn't do well for me. I am a beginner but I do know how more intermediate techniques so it's not like I was scrubbing crazy or anything. I just didn't enjoy it and that's why we paint is for enjoyment? Right? Agian thanks! Have a great day

[@lucymacdonald644]

Hi My favourite watercolour papers for a while now are Sennelier 140lb c/p and Hahnemuhle Agave. The sennelier is great with masking fluid. A quality product. However the Hahnemuhle Agave is terrible at lifting anything that sticks to it including tape. I still love to use the paper though so try now to use masking fluid on it. When I use masking tape I use a heat gun to loosen the adhesive then there is no tearing at all

[@shilow7586]

thanks

[@mitchellscott1843]

Great content as usual Steve...I find the new Fabriano Artistico (with enhanced quality label) to be very easy to lift. Not sure If its because I use this brand and lot and little to compare it to or what but just a observation of mine.

[@lisathaviu1154]

I’ve always preferred Arches or the bright white version of Fabriano as all purpose papers. However when I have lifted, I have had really good results with a Caran D’ache water brush - the marker tip. It seems to work well without undue scrubbing and because of the water feed, it lifts quickly.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Great tip thanks!

[@Wildflowerafternoons]

Interesting 🧐

[@OurWatercolourJourney]

This was FASCINATING!:)😀 I have one question, though: What about painting over masked areas? I used the papers from your first and second categories, and have found that once the mask has been lifted, the paint 'sits' differently on the paper. I used different methods of lifting the masking fluid and have found that it is sometimes difficult to apply a smooth layer. It would be interesting to see how paint reacts on those areas where you have lifted off the masking fluid.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Sounds like mask residue. Painting over masked areas is usually not a problem unless the mask is aging, which can happen really fast depending on how much air its been exposed to. I've put down mask before that wouldn't come up much at all, as if I painted with acrylic or something. Horrible.

[@greekveteran2715]

Go for Pebeo masking fluid and check the Production date. If it's expired for a long time, and those products usually sit for years on the shelves of some shops, then, it's going to leave residue no matter what's the brand. However, most people believe, that Pebeo makes the best masking fluid.

[@johanbrink5376]

Thank you Steve...very informative! I use Saunders Waterford paper and I was wondering if you've done any tests on different weights of paper. On bigger paintings I like the 640gsm....far less buckling.

[@bonnierosendale]

Thanks for doing this, Steve. I'm not a beginner, but no where near a pro when it comes to watercolor. I'm learning about cotton papers and how they work. Question: In one of your future videos, could you maybe talk about "wetting agents"? I recently bought a half pan set of Schminke paints and it has a half pan of "Oxgall wetting agent" in it. I understand how Oxgall is used in mixing pigments, but I've never come across it as a wetting agent in a pan set before. How is it used? Thanks so much for all the great info you provide!

[@keepyourshoesathedoor]

You put it into your paint water and it makes the paints move more and dry slower. It’s a wetting agent because it’s “wetter” than water.

[@LeesChannel]

I saw a demonstration by Andy Evansen at the Transparent Watercolor Society of America, in which he mentioned that Arches quality has been going down over the years, and he switched to Saunders Waterford and Baohong because of it. Do you feel like the quality of Arches has tangibly changed over the many years you've used it, and if so, how? He further stated that Baohong feels like Arches used to, I'd be interested in hearing your experience if you get the opportunity.

[@mindofwatercolor]

I don't agree. I've heard a few rumors. I've used Arches for over 40 years and it's the most dependable brand I know of. It's still the most trusted 100% cotton brand out there. More pros use it than any other. I personally have not felt any change. I do think that handling and storage practices by vendors have gotten worse over the years. That might account for some poor quality but I don't think it's in the manufacturing process.

[@LeesChannel]

@@mindofwatercolor Thank you so much for taking the time to respond, I value your insight!

[@dao8805]

Follow-up to previous comment: If anyone else has tried masking on the Fluid 100 (hot press, in particular) could you please share your good (or not so good experience) in the comments here?

[@Mochicchino]

♥

[@robingarrell6066]

Thanks for a very helpful video. For the Fabriano Artistico test, did you use old stock or their newer production line labeled "enhanced" on the packaging? Fabriano modified their sizing agent or process to improve lifting, and I'm wondering whether the new stock would have the excellent glazing characteristics shown in your video. The granulation characteristics have changed drastically.

[@mindofwatercolor]

5-year old stock maybe?

[@MadebyDawn23]

Hey Steve, how have been? thank you for the video. I appreciate your testing video, but i am curious do you prefer paper that is natural grained or machine grained? Living in a third world country we dont really have a choice, we just need to use what is available.

[@mindofwatercolor]

I prefer natural by far but I would definitely use whatever I could get.

[@winnienelson1570]

I heard that lifting property is partly because of the sizing, particularly external sizing. If I soak and stretch a paper, or do a large area underpainting, would that remove enough of the external sizing to affect the lifting property?

[@mindofwatercolor]

Not it most cases. Probably depends on the paper. If you soak the paper for very long periods of time then it can dissolve some of the sizing. I never soak stretched paper for more than 20 minutes.

[@bldgmaker]

I'd like to see you paint a glass over the area where you removed the mask on each paper... over the unpainted as well a already painted and so that the glaze covers the edge of where the mask was...?

[@michemman]

Dear Steve, Thanks for the simplicity :) A few questions, and comments, a story, and Jane Blundell's preferred paper choices! 1) Does the Pebeo mask smell? 2) I have found a difference in pad, block or full sheet in any one brand. Can you clarify what you used in each brand, if you recall? (I know that Fabriano Artistico has a huge difference from pad to sheet. I know it has changed, it used to be used by botanical painters, and apparently they are having a hard time to find an equivalent! ) I still love the full sheets and pads, the latter are slightly creamier. I find these the most economical in Australia, as I cut down full sheets, one can make their own sketchbooks with this. Buy 3 sheets, one free. Our paper is really expensive from everywhere in the world. Art materials in general are expensive here! I love the texture and painting experience from Etchr CP sketchbook in 230gsm white linen, landscape A4, feels like 300gsm, love at first brush stroke...went home and bought 6. They are quite thick, lots of room in there. I have one for each type of thing; illustration, another for colour swatching in different ways, one for collage with rice glues, or Matte mod Podge for paper, (as I glue in my serviette watercolour rags as a base) a gift for my niece, and the first one took everything, ink, drawing, glazing, (lifting would be on the difficult side me thinks) love the R&K sketch ink in Olive, waterproof, neutral "Emma" with an EF nib in a Pilot desk pen, or Pelikan gold nib in the Etchr. A match made here on Earth! I also love the little trial pads of Legion Stonehenge papers, 640 gsm, about the size of a credit card, as samples, a great test, particularly the little book of 10 pages, for small travel swatching as a palette swatch, for a couple of bucks at Jacksons UK. Their black watercolour paper is impressive. One can get a whole set of Legion little pads...for testing, in fact I recommend Jackson's UK for every paper testing. Samples are cheap. 3) Paper has grain. So the way it is cut, can affect pilling, and flow. Could you check the texture running across or down on these tests please? Eg Qor paints could go wild, or not move if the grain runs a different way! 4) Just to let you know, Jane Blundell likes Arches for her first two book pages to Blurb for scanning, Hanemuele sketchbooks for urban sketching, she finds Fabriano Artistico difficult to lift, her last book on triads was made on these full sheets. I don't do much lifting. She also loves Etchr "Perfect" sketch books, a bit thicker paper, CP 300gsm, pricey, and lifts better; is top of the range. Yet to try her favourite. (After hearing about her favourite sketchbook that she loved years ago, with different paper production methods and results, she now stocks up on paper she loves.) It was easy to buy the 6 books...for a rainy day. I will send her this video to her email, I think your testing is terrific. Thanks Steve, for your time, editing for a great laugh, and for the tip about the scrubber, I had no idea that we have to be gentle! In kindred spirit, Eliza Sydney Australia x Tuesday 30th August 2:18am okay, I am sleepy now....😌

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks Sydney I appreciate the kind comments. A few short comments 1) The mask does smell yes. True of all latex based masks. 2) Mostly blocks were used which are usually cut and glued from sheets. I don't notice a substantial characteristic differences in the paper type (pad, sheet or block) of the same brand (minuscule at best). I also disagree on Fabriano. No substantial difference in my opinion (pad, sheet, block). Some difference can occur simply by age, where you buy the paper and/or how it was stored or handled, so I look for more substantial differences. Bigger differences occur in brand or from hot press to cold press. As mentioned this is all cold press. 3) I didn't see any pilling differences I could attribute to cut, grain or texture. Nothing that affects painting other than how much it pilled. Brand differences were greater. Scrubbing or lifting should be done in swirls rather than single direction strokes which can create troughs. How you scrub or lift is much more important.

[@michemman]

@@mindofwatercolor Thanks Steve! Have a wonderful day!

[@joykruczay]

Thanks ever so much for sharing your knowledge and talents with the world! One can also use a Magic Eraser to lift gently. And if the paper pills a bit from any method, the back of a spoon rubbed over the area can flatten the texture for painting again. I do have two related questions. In your experience, what is the approximate shelf life of mask? Pebeo can be diluted with water, but so often after a few weeks of opening it large clumps would form. Also, some artists have commented that Arches sizing has been inconsistent lately and the quality is not the same. Have you had these issues?

[@mindofwatercolor]

Mask life varies so I don't really know. It can sit on the retailer's shelf for long periods before you buy it. It also depends on how much air it's been exposed to. When clumps appear just gently stir it with a craft stick. Come back and do it again in a few hours. Often times those clumps will re-dissolve. If they don't after several stirs. Toss it, it's probably bad. Testing on your paper is always a great way to know for sure. Storing mask upside down usually helps it last longer. Creates a better air seal. Also store it in the dark, in a drawer for example. UV light degrades latex. No issues with Arches. It's one of the most consistent papers I've ever used. Handling and storage before you bought it can sometimes be a factor. I like buying blocks or pads that have been shrink wrapped (I never buy anything that's been opened). I buy full sheets in 5-sheet packs which come in a sealed wrapper. I never buy exposed single sheets anymore. Too many problems have come from poor handling.

[@joykruczay]

@@mindofwatercolor Great advice - thanks! I do store my mask upside down in a drawer, and only buy Arches in sealed packages. Really appreciate the time in such a complete, prompt answer.

[@parleymanderson7490]

I know this question isn’t related to the video but do you think the Princeton Neptune a good alternative for the Black Velvet ? Black Velvet is out of the question for me in term of price and ethical reason. I need a soft brush that holds a decent amount of water and comes to a fine point.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Pretty good alternative yes. The small brushes don't hold a point as well.

[@michelletulumello661]

I am wondering what that tool is he is using to apply the masking fluid?

[@labaccident2010]

So I’m not the only one having issues with stonehenge paper. Mine pills like no tomorrow with relatively few washes, too.

[@nattyw495]

I enjoyed this video it very informative, do you ever use hot press,since im a huge sketcher but have started watercoloring three yrs ago om learningvso much infomation from your videos i basically at beging of three yrs ago bought a roll of arches before prices were expensive and bought strahmore i figured as i get better i just will cut my roll ito sheets as needed worked well i like to work out things on strahmore than when i feel confident i do final painting on arches...mikelle art mom👩‍🎨🎨✍

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yes, use hot press frequently. These test results would be similar on HP. Cold press is most commonly used so a better all around subject.

[@cindymccann3753]

Steve, I just started using Arches Cold Rough paper. How would you compare rough to the paper you tested today Arche.?

[@mindofwatercolor]

Pretty much the same just heavier texture. Not notice anything drastic. Perhaps a little thirstier.

[@cindymccann3753]

@@mindofwatercolor Thank you, Steve.

[@sherryfurr9115]

Steve, I have searched through your videos and hope I did not miss it, but have you tested Baohong Academy and Artist paper. So many people are posting how amazed they are at how it performs. I did this same test following along with you o Baohong and in my VERY beginner mind, it performed well for a very in expensive paper. Would you consider testing it for us. It is 100% cotton and sized internally and externally.

[@polgara28]

I was about to ask the same question. It's currently my favorite paper. I love the price, but also the texture and the block form it comes in, vs a pad. (The block cutters don't hurt either, but you only need so many of those)

[@sherryfurr9115]

@@polgara28 The only negative thing is the paper is so hard to get off of the block! I have found that the best way to do it is to get a big enough slit to get my fingers under there and tear it off that way. Even the block cutters don’t keep the paper from tearing. But the paper itself is great. And I can hardly tell the difference between the academy and the artist blocks. I have tried all of the top artists papers..Arches, Fabriano, Hahnemuhle, Strathmore, etc.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Not yet!

[@keepyourshoesathedoor]

Is the paper that bad? I don’t understand the pros and cons list. Is it bad for the painting to lift? Does it make the paper bad? When I used Arches, it kinda seemed extremely thirsty and made my paintings look patchy and makes the painting have little speckles on it. If I use wet washes it still does that. It smears graphite too. I’ve had other papers not do that. However, the paper is still great. That’s the confusing part. Do I just suck and am approaching art the wrong way if I don’t love what other people love? Everyone I know reps that paper.😣 Like worships it as it can do no wrong and it’s king. Do I just suck?

[@mindofwatercolor]

Not necessarily good or bad just characteristics that are preferred or not preferred. As for Arches, many artists painting on cheaper paper find they have to use more water. Once you do that and get used to it, it's amazing. Cheap paper handles water poorly so painters use less of it typically.

[@simonebourque1061]

Thank you for another informative video. I am in Canada, and I do not have a local art shop so I glanced at all these brands on Amazon. Sadly, I have found the prices of quality paper to be astronomical. The Winsor Pro is 149$, the cheapest is Stonehenge Aqua is 36$. I am not sure what a fair cost should be for my casual enjoyment of watercolour.

[@starr-starr]

I would look at deserres before Amazon for paper. Or Jackson’s.

[@polgara28]

Have you tried Baohong Academy or Artist papers? Not sure if you can get it up there, but very nice for the price, depending on your needs.

[@TheVOLTAGEVIDEOS]

My watercolor friends in Canada use Jackson's. Size is very important. You may pay much more for a 10 inch x 14 inch pad of paper compared to 9x12. I buy the 10x14 because I can get four 5 x7s out of it. Those are normal photo sizes, all of them. I like to buy full sheets when I can as well, and use a box knife 5o cut down.

[@ChantelleArts]

Great analysis, I love watching these kind of videos before buying new paper! I too love arches paper, nothing else compares 😍 have you tried Khadi paper before? I’ve found that it rips with masking fluid, which I was very disappointed about

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yes. Khadi's sizing doesn't agree with me which is probably why it tears too.

[@ladygwarth]

Have you ever tried Millford paper by St Cuthberts Mill? I tried some here in the UK, but I am not sure if am experienced enough to use it. It is very heavily sized, people rave about it here, but I am just not sure. It is supposed to be similar to their discontinued paper, Whatman. If you are able to get some I would be interested to see what you think of it.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Saunders Waterford is a better choice from that mill.

[@ladygwarth]

@@mindofwatercolor I do find it much easier to paint on.

[@shushu7574]

I dislike Stonehenge. Wish I had not purchased it years ago on your recommendation.

[@jamessauve2419]

Always use Archies, never use jughead... just kidding :D

[@ralphcrosby9622]

When paper pills or what I call, explodes from lifting masking. Can it be resized with anything?

[@mindofwatercolor]

In my repainting tests there was no need. Scrubbing corrections should be small. If you are scrubbing out huge sections then you're better off just to repaint the picture from scratch.