SHOWDOWN! Cheap vs Quality Cotton Watercolor Paper

In this video I engage in some basic demonstrations that show the key performance differences between cellulose or wood pulp paper (cheaper) vs 100% cotton paper (best quality). And make sure to watch my clarification video on cotton papers and how to use cheaper papers. • My Best Tips for Paint...
NOTE: Correcting an error in this video. There is not a cheaper grade of Arches. I used to assume that was true of the tear off pads but its the same quality paper as their sheets.
(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for Looking)
My Amazon Store of Favorite Products:
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Arches Watercolor Paper (various) - amzn.to/2owloQC
Arches 140lb. Tear Off Pad - amzn.to/2FDTDwD
Princeton Elite #8 Round Brush - amzn.to/2F3VZ75
Princeton Neptune 3/4" Flat from set - amzn.to/2GRo2XW
M. Graham Watercolor Paint - amzn.to/2CMQKqv
6- Deep Well Mixing Palette - amzn.to/2CPKbTR
100% cotton papers I've used and can recommend:
Arches - amzn.to/2owloQC
Fabriano Artistico - amzn.to/2G0wIvT
Strathmore 500 - amzn.to/2Fo86vG
Hahnemuehle (Leonardo, Cezanne, Turner, The Collection) - amzn.to/2FjFmZ9
Saunders Waterford - amzn.to/2oMul8G
Stonehenge Aqua - amzn.to/2oOijeK
Canson Moulin Du Roy - amzn.to/2G3kFOs
Canson Heritage - amzn.to/2FZ6QAm
Bee 100% Cotton - amzn.to/2D6G7ib
Winsor Newton Pro (not Classic) - amzn.to/2LDZ4lG
Indigo - www.dickblick....
Kilamanjaro - www.cheapjoes....
Other reputable cotton brands I've not tried yet:
Shut Noblese (Dutch) - www.dickblick....
Blick Premiere (Unspecified European Mill) - www.dickblick....
Lanaquarelle (French) - amzn.to/2D4g0bX
Langton Prestige (UK) - amzn.to/2Flm0yS
Shizen (Indian) - amzn.to/2FZbcYk
A few options for 100% Cotton Sketchbooks
www.cheapjoes....
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[@Dragonflyspiritstudio]

For those who live in remote areas and can't find a particular brand of paper recommended by someone here: Several years ago I bought 5 full sheets of every brand of 100% rag paper I could get my hands on. I might be forgetting some, but it included: Arches, Kilimanjaro, Fabriano Artistico, Saunders Waterford, Lanaquarelle, Strathmore 500, Twinrocker, Punjab, Cartiera Magnini, Jack Richeson. (This was before the new Bee paper came out, so I didn't test that one.) I also bought equivalent amounts (couldn't aways find full sheets) of some of the popular "student" papers: Canson, Strathmore 400, Saunders Bockingford, Fabriano Studio (I think there was one more, but I can't remember what it was). For the 100% cotton rag papers, there was an initial adjustment period getting used to differences in sizing and texture, and each had its own subtle pros and cons, but by the end of 5 sheets, I could comfortably work on ANY of the 100% rag papers without having to think about the paper. At the end of the same amount of practice on the student-grade papers, I could usually find ways to get acceptable results for smaller pieces (some papers actually had some quirks that I learned to like for certain specialized applications), but it took more effort and concentration, and consistently getting a vibrant, clean graded wash over a large area remained a major challenge. Anything involving lifting or large amounts of water (extended wet-into-wet sessions, pouring) was pretty discouraging, if not impossible. (Some papers just fell apart if they were manipulated too much.) So now I tell people, if you are a beginner (or struggling non-beginner) IMO you are better off buying ANY 100% rag paper that's available in your area (or can get shipped to you) over any of the student-grade papers. Stick with that brand while you're learning to minimize variables. Presumably you're painting for enjoyment and learning; buying crappy paper is really just buying frustration and discouragement.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Excellent testimonial. Thanks!

[@Dragonflyspiritstudio]

BTW, I laughed so hard I cried at "I'm a beginner, and I paint with crap . . . " It makes me crazy when students say, "Well, I'm just using it for practice." My reply: "Would you go to the driving range with your kid's plastic Fisher-Price clubs because it's 'just for practice' . . . ?" Thanks SO MUCH for making this video, so I don't have to. :) I point students to your channel all the time. Great stuff!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks for the referrals. This has turned out to be one of my top viewed videos of the year. I pinned your comment to the top because it should be required reading for doubters or the undecided.

[@elegantruin]

As someone who literally hadn't done any watercolor at all since grade school, the fact when I tried to pick it back up with Michael's Artist Loft name brand paper and watercolor, I was SO FRUSTRATED, and I could not BELIEVE that I was THAT BAD. It took buying different paints of various brands, and finally different paper, to realize exactly what the problem was. It's not me, it's the goddamn awful paper! So this video, and your comment are very helpful.

[@mikepolo2887]

I usually use Lanaquarelle and am pretty happy with the results, but big washes really depend on the pigment. For a different style I use cellulose papers by Hahnemuehle, but it requires a completely different workflow: no glazing, but you can do a lot with lifting paint and combining shapes.

[@remmyv1602]

it makes me nervous using expensive supplies, i feel like i have to make "the best painting ever" to justify the cost XD

[@virginia-marieparker6325]

Lia V Nice to know I’m not alone. Stressful, right?!! I painstakingly cut one sheet of a gifted pad of Arches that I’ve felt unworthy of for 10 YEARS into three and bit my lip while attempting a top to bottom wash. Such a difference! Life is short. “Treat yourself”! Suddenly, I’m brilliant at laying down an even wash! ( still will remain stingy with it and make tiny paintings- but damn-it, I’m gonna use it!!😜🤣

[@RedMoonsEcho]

I only use the expensive stuff when I’m doing a final piece

[@ShaheenKhan-xv5vj]

This! I feel like I will waste the paper and I need to get better at watercolour first.

[@rubenspaul5271]

Where to buy relative cheap 100% cotton paper? Have you ever heard of Paul Rubens cotton paper. Here is their retail shop and their quality is also excllent: paulrubens.aliexpress.com/store/5140092

[@bhspitbull9271]

I tend to paint more freely and looser on less expensive paper. It is common to worry about longevity and the oxidation from the non-acid free papers. Some companies like “Fluid” make both an acid free cellulose (paper) and a 100% cotton version. I looked at my watercolors on Canson XL several years ago. They still look fine. Maybe after 10 years they might yellow?

[@laurapuchalski7402]

For those who paint on a budget, I have found that if you wet the entire backside of the Canson’s XL with a mist sprayer, the paper works very well. The paint is drawn into the paper surface more evenly and the colors are brighter as well. I also wet the top surface a bit and brush lightly over the entire top surface. This process primes the paper. Cotton papers absorb without priming them, but pulp needs water to expand it in order to absorb the colors so that they don’t just sit on the surface. This technique also keeps the paper flat while you work, with no need to tape it down. This works with all pulp papers. Since using this technique, I have had very good success with less expensive paper. Give it a try. You still have to be careful when scrubbing XL, but it will take lifting and light scrubbing just fine.

[@charliebaker1427]

i mean xl is fine regardless lol

[@darcyreads]

THANK YOU FOR THIS TIP!! I'll try it out and hopefully it will work for me

[@adashofmadness6455]

Hello! Thank you for this! I tried this and it made a big improvement for me 😄

[@joycekowbelharvey4816]

Thank you fir this idea! Can’t wait to try it

[@laurapuchalski7402]

@@adashofmadness6455 Glad you found it helpful! Nice for smaller pieces, much nicer pigment movement.

[@melvintalmadge2803]

For those of you afraid to 'use' your 'good' paper here's a different perspective. Instead of worrying if your painting ability is good enough for your most expensive paper imagine you've just painted the 'best' painting you've ever done and you did it on cheap paper because you were too scared to use the 'good' paper. Own your supplies, don't let them own you. They are there to help you be the best you can be, not to sit unused on your shelf for years on end. Life is short - seize the day! :)

[@mindofwatercolor]

Good point!

[@MarinaMichaels]

Oh my goodness, you've just convinced me. I've got excellent quality watercolor paints and brushes, but have been buying cheap paper for practice until I feel I'm good enough to deserve to use good paper. Last year, I tried some cotton paper samples and the difference was so amazing. But I continued to use the cheap stuff, even though I've painted some nice pieces. Your argument for using the best we can is perfect. No more cheap paper! 100% cotton for me from now on.

[@ceec165]

Thank you for this! Thinking: if I died tomorrow my Arches block would go to Goodwill unused 😅. No more keeping it for a special occasion.

[@kairacook1093]

I remember my high school art teacher supplied us arches paper. And I was decent at watercolor then. I just couldn't figure out why I wasn't good anymore lately and the realization struck me now that I've watched this. I messaged my art teacher and she confirmed it. She used to cut down large sheets to postercard size for us so it was more affordable and lasted more for us.

[@dakotahjadee]

That’s awesome! She could have went with the cheapest kind of paper but allowed you guys to learn on great paper that ultimately yielded better results 🥰

[@CoraBlu080605]

My teen surprised me with a pad of Arches cold press 9x12 and hot press 10x14 watercolor paper last week as a gift out of nowhere. :)

[@mindofwatercolor]

Awesome!

[@MeganMcCar]

Cora Blu .... how wonderful!!!! :) .... late comment here now but I had to return to this video because yahooooooooo-Arches is becoming affordable on Amazon AU now (whereas when it started last year there were few products at huge prices!) ... so both HP and CP are in my shopping cart as well as some 100% rag/cotton Bee paper (non-practice one) ...... so I also had to know - have you had a chance to paint on your gifts of paper? How did you find it in terms of quality and/or how it matched your style? I'm sooooooo excited -sorry!

[@spookefied]

Weird flex but okay

[@grandma.p]

What nice presents! It sounds like your teen knows a lot about art.

[@danthomas6587]

Been using Arches since the 70s. I was taught at a young age. Spend your money on good pigments and good paper. Good brushes can wait.

[@matzzarin]

Yea and from my experience people who are new to watercolor also just end up ruining their expensive brushes due to lack of knowledge how to take care of them and just end up wasting money. I saw a lot of people in my watercolor classes buy $30+ brushes and just leave them in water forever, touch the bristles an awful lot and just in general ruin them. That money is better spent on some good paints and papers, hard to ruin those hahaha

[@assiab4524]

@@matzzarin how should you take care of your brushes though?

[@sy-zu4uz]

@@matzzarin how to take care of brushes pleeeaase

[@matzzarin]

@@assiab4524 you take care of them by knowing what ruins them haha. Things that can ruin a watercolor brush is things like: touching them with your fingers (the grease on your fingers makes them less good at holding water, storing them upright while they're still wet (water comes into the brush glue and makes it fall apart after a while) , or leaving it in water (again, it makes the glue weak and also can make your brush de-formed). Theres a lot of other things but those are the top 3 things I see people do ;( Using your brushes ONLY for watercolor is also a must, since things like acrylic, gouache and ESPECIALLY oils will absolutely kill your brush. Gouache isnt at bad as acrylics or oils but due to the larger pigments in the paint it can make your brushes worse since it will roughen up the bristles and makes it worse at holding water.

[@classicartfoundation639]

And how about learn to paint too? Lol no one ever mentions that part

[@saltwalk]

I've been using Canson XL forever and the fact that it's crumby paper that produces crumby results is what kind of motivated me to keep using it. I would tell myself, "If I can make my artwork look good on Canson XL, then I will be able to really make it look good on the more expensive brands." But I think in the process, Canson XL has somehow taught me bad habits. When you said "Non-cotton paper is difficult to learn on", it then dawned on me that I should branch out and now start practicing on 100% cotton paper more often to see if that improves my technique. Like thefrugalcrafter mentioned, I will always keep cheap paper handy because I personally will practice more knowing that I'm not wasting too much money, but there is definitely room to cut money out of my eat-out budget and bite the bullet and purchase the good paper. Thanks for taking time to put this together! Happy Easter!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks Jonathan, good observations, you've grasped my point exactly. A lot boils down to how serious a painter is about painting in watercolor. And I don't mean lack of seriousness to be an insult. WC is not for everyone and some people just want to try it for occasional fun or dabble in the medium. Thats ok. As a weekend woodworker who'll never really be serious about it I understand dabbling better than anyone. But my channel is also for those who want to take the medium as far as they can, so i would be remiss if I approached it as a "here's how you can save money and use cheap products" subject. Not me or my teaching style. I much prefer, "here's how to do it right" if that matters to anyone. And it seems to.

[@vivaldirules]

I’m terribly impressed, Steve. Most available comparisons of anything, not just watercolor paper, have someone taking two different kinds, doing a quick example of one “test”, and then saying “See, this one is better.” Here, you’ve given us at least five different tests, the tests are objectively performed under identical conditions and they are tests of very different but important painting techniques. Best of all, they were performed by an honest to gosh lifetime expert. You deserve a gold star from us and KZbin, Steve. Thank you so much! It was gracious of you to take the time and effort to be so thorough. Now if I could only find a good travel journal with Arches.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Awww thanks! 😄

[@mindofwatercolor]

Arches use to make a field book but they seem to be unavailable now. Simplest way is to buy an Arches pad and take it to a printer who spiral or wire binds.

[@happytriangles]

Agreed! As for journals, Steve's suggestion is perfect. You can also buy Arches in sheets or pads, cut/tear and bind a nice hardback journal. I did that with Canson Edition paper (when they still had pads), used some mat board, spare cotton fabric, thread and glue. It's a good option if you've got the time!

[@kookatsoonjan]

great idea...there is a staples here

[@MeganMcCar]

The Mind of Watercolor .... now we have accessible and more affordable (relatively) Arches paper now, different types too-wahoooooooo!!!! I'm also going to try make own sketchbook out of it, if I can get more than one pad that is!!! Oooooooo, what a difference from months ago when the Arches paper was nearly $100 more than it is now (plus I can't leave the shopping cart because they are building up huge art supply lines compared to the ten or so they initially had!! ..... so I had to return to your video (& other videos). Thank you (& thank you for asking others here if they could help people like us out who had access problems). Very kind and considerate of you :)

[@pattitaylor7642]

I live in Mexico at a high altitude and was using all arches I do portraits found that I had a terrible time lifting with the arches so I stumbled on Canson which had let me lift and I am getting really good results So sometimes you have to consider the dryness of weather and possibly altitude I still have a large amount of arches but it is hard to soften edges in my climate

[@heelrunner]

I discovered that pulp paper is great with gouache and acrylic paint, just because it's not as thirsty. I never realized the ease of painting on Arches until I tried cellulose. Thank you for this informative demo!

[@Bee-uy2cn]

I hate to be stuck up but good quality paper is essential for begginers. Watercolor can be discouraging in the beggining, bleeding, cauliflowering, water absorbency, can all make someone not want to pursue it. I say get good with the good stuff then move to the cheeap stuff rather than starting with cheap stuff and slowly moving to the good stuff. I think paper is more important than the brushes and paint. I have been paining for 18 years now and i can make any paint and any brush work. Especially if i am not doing detailed work, and only want light washes of color. I, however can not make bad paper work even with my simplistic work. Istarted my painting experience with acrylics as my medium first. I can use any cheap paint and brushes an even canvases to do good acrylic work (because the paint does all the work) but watercolor is tricky. Now if someone likes cauliflowering and less intense pigment i say go for it. Otherwise Invest in good paper. It will change your life and your attitude toward painting. All my old cheap water color paper pads are now sketch pads because i like the way it moves graphite around but other than that i never use it to paint.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Exactly! Budget and availability notwithstanding.

[@endgame6979]

Agreed. Im stubborn so I did practice with cheap crap, and one day I got Arches 300lb paper and WOOO-AH! I wasnt that bad of a watercolorist as I thought.

[@vegasrenie]

Optimus Prime - I know, right! And the paper I picked up wasn’t even the 300 pound! But it was so much better than the cheap paper I’ve been using, it blew me away. I still use the cheap paper to practice techniques, but when it comes to serious practice and final work, it’s onto the 100% cotton paper.

[@cgo225]

Many thanks - this video has helped me immensely, and it's only cotton for me, from now. As a recent beginner to w/c painting, I've just spent the last three weeks struggling with wood pulp paper... the colours lacked any vibrancy, the paint seemed to have a mind of its own on the paper, my blended washes were a joke, and I spent my entire time constantly fighting to achieve anything close to the desired result - with little luck. I watched this video a few days ago and bought my first pad of 100% cotton five minutes later - which I used today for the first time. The results were awesome and all my original problems have practically disappeared!! I can now learn with confidence, knowing that any failures are likely down to me, not the paper, paint or brushes! Furthermore, all those other videos where the "artist" says using wood pulp 'should be fine for beginners' are no longer being watched.....wood pulp is only useful for practising brush strokes, sketches but little else.

[@jillfarkas]

I used canson XL and thought it was me! I was painting flowers and the result was similar to the canson sphere. I have some arches watercolor paper that I’ve been too scared to use, because I thought I needed to improve (going off of my results on canson paper). So I think I will start actually using the paper!

[@cleopatra308]

Exactly the same story here.

[@lindamaus5286]

Me too. I so appreciate this video. You confirmed what I was thinking and hoping. I'll use the non arches to warm up.

[@artwilwarin7483]

Glazing is such a nightmare and the buckling 🥺🥺

[@appleknocker56]

Same story here with that Canson XL! At first thought it was just me but put actual water droplets on it & the water never went into the paper & it took 45 minutes to I guess just evaporate so waiting for 20 sheets of 100% cotton as not fighting that paper anymore & this video shows how much of a difference it makes!

[@zander3456]

I'm a digital painter and recently I've been trying to get into traditional painting for fun. However I've been really discouraged by the results until now . Then I saw this video and went to the store and bought the most affordable pure cotton paper I could find and holy crap, the difference is night and day , even though the one I got is just slightly more expensive that the standard one . Don't even bother with non pure cotton paper , maybe you don't need arches for starting out , but there are cheaper alternatives

[@leojablonski2309]

ditto, dot, dash. what a ephinay! same here

[@francoisederocher]

Absolutely agree with you: Arches is my favorite. I have seen artists do very nice work with cheap polyester brushes, student grade pigments, but they always had great paper. That is the most important tool and a game changer.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yep! well said, thanks!

[@ThatOldBiddy]

This changed my mind on trying water color... I've been using the wrong paper all these years... Thank you...

[@thefrugalcrafter]

I use canson xl and fabrino studio HP for rubber stamping watercolor projects but I make my homemade plein air travel blocks with the fabrino studio cp paper and honestly I love it for small quick plein air sketches and its not too "precious" that I have to worry about waste. Luke you arches is my favorite but sometimes I don't need that robust of a paper. I use Aquabee 100% cotton for my practise prices before my live streams and often I like my practice price more than my finished painting on arches. I think with cheaper paper you can feel freer because "its only s price of paper!" And not to precious:) great comparison Steve. To any beginners out there the most important thing to becoming a good painter is painting with whatever you have or feel good painting on. If you buy arches but are afraid to waste it it won't do you any good.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Hey thanks Lindsay! Good points. We all learn how to work with different mediums and surfaces over time and with experience. You are an experienced painter and know how to compensate for cheaper papers. One of the things I usually tell beginners is yes, they can paint well on cheaper paper but it'll be more difficult until they learn. Its so backward from the way paper is marketed. There are a couple pulp journals I use and like a little but I still go into it knowing HOW I have to paint to work around the short comings.

[@starvingartistscollective]

Thanks Lindsay for your input, really appreciate your 'just paint with what you have' message!! Reading through all the comments it becomes very obvious that while Arches can be affordable in the US, it's prohibitively expensive everywhere else. Insisting it's the best and only to use the best, doesn't make it more affordable outside the US. This issue is not addressed in the replies. The upside I guess is that people will learn, by necessity and repeated use, to negotiate the pitfalls of whatever paper they're using. Love both your art channels and watch them avidly!!

[@jojoberrypie6580]

hi!

[@thefrugalcrafter]

Starving Artists Collective thank you:)

[@CydMindful]

I used to work for a top tier imagery company with many contributors from the former USSR. Talk about not being able to get equipment and supplies! Those people didn't even know what country they were living in at any given moment. It was our responsibility to help them develop with what little bit they had, and what we told our contributors over and over was that it wasn't the wand, it was the magician. :-) To be honest, they really had to dig down and learn things those of us in the West let our equipment do for us. Many of them are now better photo artists than we are.

[@IchigosGirlRei]

The most frustrating things for me while learning to watercolor have been weak color, and bleeding colors. I assumed I was just terrible, and couldn't nail a "pro painter" look. This video opened my eyes, though. Those spheres illustrated EXACTLY the problems that have been discouraging me. While it's still hard for me to afford Arches, I now know that I should grab some whenever I can.

[@SLP8041]

WOW!!! This totally changed my knowledge of watercolor as I am teaching myself at the age of 71. Last night I opened up my set of 48 water colors and started to make a sample chart. I thought I was so terrible because the paint was pooling on my Canson paper just like your example did in the video. I quickly ordered Arches paper block and it will be here in 2 days. THANK YOU FOR HELPING ME ALONG ON MY JOURNEY!

[@annenglish2935]

Good for you! I turn 70 in a few weeks and started my journey a year ago... finally using my cotton... and I've found deals on Arches on Amazon and Ebay!!! God bless you and enjoy!

[@seahorse5689]

Well, geez, no wonder why my practice of washes have been so frustrating. Thanks Steve!

[@almblade_art]

I've been painting watercolor now for 7 years and haven't realized how much better Arches was compared to Canson. As soon as I use up my supply of Canson I'll be switching! Thank you for the helpful tip.

[@DustyMusician]

"I'm a beginner and I paint with crap" will never not be the funniest bit on KZbin

[@katepanthera7265]

Absolutely ! I almost fell off my chair laughing !

[@AmandaHolling]

Thank you so much for this video! This is the first time I could actually *see* the difference in the performance of 100% cotton vs wood pulp paper. I'm now convinced that it's a better idea to make my own small watercolor journal out of cotton paper rather than waste time trying to learn on paper that performs poorly.

[@kwernerdesign]

YASSS!! I am totally with you! I prefer to use cotton watercolor paper more than anything else. But I do get a lot of questions from beginners who ask about watercoloring on regular cardstock or drawing paper because it’s cheaper. In that case, anything labeled “watercolor paper” would be better. And so I do use Canson XL for smaller projects-to show that it’s a better option than non-watercolor paper. But when I’m planning some serious painting (lots of water, layers, etc), I go back to my Arches, Saunders Waterford, or Fabriano Artistico, and breathe a sigh of relief. Excellent review! Thanks, Steve!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks so much Kristina. Yes the one thing I think cheaper watercolor paper is ok for is single layer type applications such as coloring like for your stamping presumably or I don't mind it too much for line and wash. But a sigh of relief is a good characterization for the good stuff. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@jaspermartin7444]

LOL So amusing you mention that because I just bought some cardstock today thinking it would be even cheaper than canson!LOL! Perhaps I'll save it for drawing...

[@iggyt6666]

My issue with the XL canson watercolor paper is not that washes end up somewhat dull, but the repetitive surface pattern is way too distinguishable and it triggers my OCD badly. Have any of you noticed that?

[@ryanoconnor7957]

@@iggyt6666 Yes, I noticed it almost immediately with their entire range (not only watercolour paper, their print paper too). Then it gave me more appreciation for the good brands who pay attention to details like that.

[@wearesatellites91]

My gosh, for weeks I’ve been struggling with my watercolors wondering why I can’t get the same results as the tutorials I watch online, and why glazing is impossible for me to do. Every time I try it on my canson or strathmore paper it just destroys the layer underneath and I waste sooo much time trying to fix problems that it’s not even fun anymore. This video highlighted all the issues I’ve been having and now I’m heading straight to the store to buy Arches. Thank you!

[@MDCampbell]

One of my students brought in her new pad of Strathmore Series 200 paper and her new set of Reeves watercolors from AC Moore. Another brought in his new XL pad and no-name brand watercolors from the Dollar Store. Both were bursting with joy at their new purchases, which I shared enthusiastically with them. However, inside, my heart was breaking to know that students were out there, spending money on these cheaper products, unaware that they might learn more from higher quality products. Of course, I didn't say anything. What bothers me, too, is that the young woman told me that the salesperson at AC Moore told her that the products she bought were "the best on the market." ugh. I sincerely hope the folks watching this realize just how valuable this video is in sharing information that, for us, was simply not available when we were younger or starting out. I'm sure you relate to having to use whatever the local art store had in stock. Imagine if we had Amazon in 1978? lol!! I'll be sure to direct my students to this video when we discuss watercolors and the paper to use with them. It will be mandatory viewing! Thank you, Steve! :)

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yeah the people at most of these stores don't know diddly. I bought several sheets of watercolor paper that Hobby Lobby was clearing out for $1.40 a sheet. The department manager (of artists supplies) had no idea what it was when I asked. I could tell it was probably cotton but no clue from the sales person. To a beginner, if it was bought in the art supply section of any art-like store it must be good stuff. If you want to see their eyes grow twice their size, ask them to pull out their cheap paper then you pull out some Arches and have them compare a technique on each side by side. 😧

[@cassiescreations9828]

The Mind of Watercolor The people at the stores don't know didly because they are not instructors or professionals but handling, ordering and stocking different types of merchandise in mass quantities for a store that caters to a multitude of hobbies - and most of them get paid minimum wage. Even department managers are not trained in specific art but in stock and reordering and managing people ... You would need to go to a reputable art store or Mom and Pop store where caring artists instruct beginners correctly.

[@MDCampbell]

I agree 100% Cassie's Creations, though it's unfortunate that consumers are not getting good information on products in the store. I agree, too, about going to a reputable art store where you might pay a little more, but at least you know they know their stuff! :)

[@cassiescreations9828]

M.D. Campbell 😉

[@dianesaulnier9772]

I have had the same problem with cheap paints in my classes. Last year I had them all do a real comparison using their cheap paints, which included Artists Loft, Reeves, W/N Cotman, and Cheap Joe's Professional American Journey paints. Cotman fared the best of the cheap ones, but all agreed that the American Journey was what they really wanted to be using.

[@Juhani139]

Unfortunately I am one of those that use the cheapest possible paper. You are my mentor when it comes to watercolor, and every time I shop for paper I think "Steve would say buy the good stuff!", but then I see the prices and I just can't afford it. So for the rest of you who, like me, have only 3 watercolour brushes and can't afford the quality paper, there are ways to work around the flaws of cheaper paper. It's more work, but it's possible to achieve an acceptable end result. Lifting, scrubbing, etc are all issues I frequently see and have to combat. When I see you paint on the Arches I get a longing feeling, haha. Excellent video. Very comprehensive with examples. I have been waiting for this one. Another test you could have added, is one with masking fluid. It tends to tear the cheaper paper. Same with masking tape.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Glad that you're keeping at it regardless of the paper you have. Good for you!

[@chanelcreadora6570]

Juhani139 yes. We are in the same boat. My amazon wishlist is FULL of art supplies. And every paycheck I cross my fingers and hope I can afford to purchase some quality supplies. And then it turns out, I cannot. It’s either paint on crappy cheap paper, or miss out on the joys of painting all together. My husband asked me what I wanted for Christmas, and I should have just shown him my amazon wish list. But instead I said “Focus on the children. I can go without.” I currently regret that statement.

[@assiab4524]

I have two brushes, in size 6 and 6/0 that are designed specifically for watercolors lmao

[@SharonCullenArt]

Juhani139 If you want to try some okay paper that is 100% cotton go over to Amazon and buy some Bee paper. The cold press paper is pretty good, is 100% cotton and you can buy it in rolls. You determine how many feet you can afford. I have a channel and often review papers and other products, and when I found this just had to get it. I think I spent $24 on it and bought 36”x 5 yards. That is a lot of paper. It isn’t a bad paper at all. It doesn’t get great reviews mostly because those of us who review it are comparing it to other cotton paper, like Arches, Saunders Waterford etc which are fine artist paper. But the paper won’t pill like Fabriano studio 25% cotton paper, and it is easy to paint on for a beginner. Here is a link to it. This one is a bit shorter than what I bought but still a huge deal. smile.amazon.com/Bee-Paper-Watercolor-30-Inch-5-Yards/dp/B0027A7AVI/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Bee+watercolor+paper+roll&qid=1552309215&s=home-garden&sr=1-1 Oh and masking fluid will tear the cellulose paper if you use a heat tool to dry your paper, or don’t wait for it to fully dry, or leave it on over a couple of days.

[@calonstanni]

I just ordered some of that today for the first time. I'm excited to try it as I've been using Canson xl and am ready to move on up! @@SharonCullenArt

[@BEArt_87]

Wow!! This video show me a new world! I actually use Canson XL and I did't know how was the problem with the colors, but now I know!! It is totally different! Because despite all the practice, if the paper sucks, you never will be better! Thank you so much for the demo.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Exactly, thanks!

[@plopezcopetti]

Same thing here! Though I'll stick to Canson XL for a while until I feel my skills with the medium improve, no doubt I'll move to Arches (quite expensive paper to practice over here)

[@StaceyHH]

I watched it twice. This is the first time it's clear to me that there are significant differences in wood pulp paper vs cotton. I have a fair amount of wood pulp stuff to use up, but I will be using it for other things now. Thank you so much!

[@leeseylou2]

I thought I was just a terrible, long-term beginner watercolor painter. I could never recreate smooth transitions, and always had splotchy weird shapes and hard lines whenever I tried to blend. Now I see that I need to upgrade my materials, and I'm certain the boost in quality will be immense, thanks to this side by side comparison. Thank you so much for giving me hope that I'm a better painter than I thought!

[@LeighPogue]

Thanks for this comparison video I’ve been frustrated many times to the point of almost giving up on watercolor completely. I did go and buy a sheet of really good paper though and cut it down into smaller sheets to just practice on and was much much happier with the results. This is absolutely a true video.

[@moyrahood]

I cannot tell you how helpful this video, together with the comments of others, has been to me. Like many of us I have limited means so I bought cheap everything for my classes. My various teachers have never explained all that you did in this video and actually demonstrated the benefits so graphically. I very soon realised of course that my Reeves paint was not helping me get the results I wanted but I had never understood the significance of the paper until now. So now I can better appreciate why I struggled so much to get the proper watercolour effect I sought. I completely agree with all that Lindsay wrote about cheaper paper freeing one up but for those of us who aspire to paint in a very purist and traditional watercolour manner it is unbelievably frustrating being unable to achieve the desired effect without hours of overpainting, blotting off, repainting and attempting to soften hard edges, which I had put down to my ineptitude or inexperience. I cannot wait now to try the Arches experience, (which, incidentally, is pronounced ‘Arsh’ by us in Britain as it’s a French name and we like to keep our near neighbours happy!) Many thanks Steve for your brilliant lessons.

[@monicapala4691]

Thank you so much for the test. I've just started using 100% cotton and feeling the difference between the paper I used before. Trying to learn watercolor, having more control is so important and watching you trying to glaze with those less expensive make me feel better. Hope this could help others that maybe would like to start learning and struggles with water control.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks Monica!

[@dreamalamb4259]

Thank you for taking the time to do this. ❤ I'm a beginner in WC, Canon 140# is what I started with. Everything you point out I HAVE wrestled with.

[@shirleybatten-smith8361]

I started using watercolour paint just over a year ago and moved to to Arches 4 months and haven’t look back - yes, it is expensive but I do use both sides for practising on.

[@alexisdunstan3944]

Would love to now see you do a comparison video on different brands of 100% cotton papers.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Hmm, yeah that would be a task. So far I've only run across one 100% cotton paper I didn't like at all and thats Fluid.

[@kabluey5971]

Hey Steve, so right you are on Fluid. I'm guessing that you found it pilled very easily, among other things.

[@mindofwatercolor]

For me, it stained to easily and wouldn't lift as well. Something about the sizing I didn't like I guess.

[@alexshi9320]

I thought Arches was super expensive until I started buying sheets from my local art store. They had discounts for 10 sheets (140lb) = $40. Each sheet is 22x30, which means if you work in a 11x15 format then you have 40 sheets for $40 which isn't too bad imho. On the other hand, if I were to buy Arches pads or blocks that would be easily twice the amount. So my advice is to buy in full sheets - I also noticed the quality seems a little better with full sheets

[@mindofwatercolor]

I used to buy pads from Hobby Lobby and use their 40% off coupon. That was a deal but they discontinued that daily coupon unfortunately. Under normal pricing sheets would be more economical.

[@GabrielleCarbonneau]

The very best comparison I’ve seen. This was so helpful for me as a strathmore user who has been too timid to try arches. Now I MUST!

[@nerdieone1]

Go for it!! XD

[@lesleyhughes9461]

Thank you so much Steve - that demonstration said it all! As a ‘learning’ or rather ‘relearning’ artist at 71 I will no longer begrudge the cost of good paper! A recent ‘minder’ from North West Durham UK

[@tussah8874]

Thanks for sharing this detailed comparison with us. I've listened to many watercolor artists talk about how important it is to use good paper, but you are the first who really showed exactly what the differences between good and cheap paper are, and what you can expect from each.

[@tonyrichengod9280]

My dear sir, thank you for this video. I took your advice and went to buy some Arches paper sheets (300 gsm/140 lb) and WOOOOW!! 🤯 I am UTTERLY blown away by this paper! I immediately felt the difference and sturdiness. It has this mini texture which is what helps paint spread evenly. The EASE to get a flat wash is out of this world! Omg! Pretty much paints itself. Very easy to move the color around. I was even getting perfect flat washes out of my cheap Pentel Arts watercolors! (the ones that are like $8 for 24 5ml tubes). And my Holbeins go down like butter 🤤. Now I know why they say that the paper is the most important thing. It's so glaringly obvious! I feel like a pro all of a sudden hahaha. I also tried a destruction test, where I drew dark pencil lines, then erased them (completely disappear) with no damage to the paper whatsoever. To confirm, I painted over the erased area and it was perfect! Usually with cheap paper, when you erase, it changes the texture of the surface due to damage and you can tell when you paint over it. But the Arches was unfazed! I had been using cheap Canson paper and having to fight it all the time. But not with Arches! It's magical! I am NEVER going back to cheap paper. Fellow viewers, trust this man and get you some Arches paper. You will love it! Next I will test a sheet of heavy Arches 640gsm/300 lb which I also bought and that one looks and feels like a rug!😆 Gonna test it with some heavy washes to see how much water it can take before warping 😁 Edit: For those who would like to follow my watercolor journey, find me on Instagram @tonyrichengodarts 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@LilDivette]

Wow, this was truly eye opening! I've seen other watercolor paper comparison videos but never a demonstration like this. I'm a beginner and have experienced all the issues you showed but thought it was just me. Initially, my plan was to continue working on the cheaper paper (one of which you premiered and quickly discounted in this video) and when my technique improved, I would invest in the better, cotton paper. Now I realize it may not be entirely me. I'm going to buy the lower cost Arches pad (with a 50% coupon!), cut down the sheets to make a smaller book, and try using that to more accurately identify which techniques I need to work on. Thank you sooo much for this incredibly informative video! 🎨📚👍

[@endgame6979]

Use 300lb. paper for your masterpiece paintings. 300lb is super expensive, so dont use it for practicing. You'll see a big difference with 300lb. Amazon has 10 sheets of 300lb for 25 bucks.

[@keepyourshoesathedoor]

@@endgame6979 thanks.

[@janismarie309]

I love watching your tutorials. I’ve learned more by watching you than any other channel. You’re thorough, you take your time explaining what you’re doing. That’s a big plus especially if you’re a beginner like me. I was almost ready to throw the towel in and give up. Then I found your channel. It’s almost like I’m in class without leaving the house 👍. Thank you for helping me and others understand the art of watercolors, most importantly in layman’s terms. Looking forward to learning more from you ~Janis✌️👩🏼‍🎨🎨✌️

[@pambrown9523]

Hands down the BEST review of why paper is sooooooo important! Thank you...

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks so much Pam!

[@DebKiwi]

I have been dabbling in watercolouring for a couple years and have had mixed results. Like many beginners, I bought several types of the cheap papers. The thing is, I usually felt discouraged about my results but this video helped me realize that I was expecting decent results using subpar paper. The paper seems to be just as or maybe in some cases, more important than the brand of paint (I also have several types but none of the really good ones yet - I’m brand new to you so I need to check and see if you have recommendations and comparisons with paint brands). I’m still interested in doing more watercolour painting but now I’m going to bite the bullet and purchase some of the Arches paper and accept the fact that I may waste it but on the other hand, I may actually create something worth framing. I think this was a really good and fair comparison with the different papers that I’ve seen available. Now I’m off to check out your other videos. Thanks so much! :-)

[@mindofwatercolor]

Much more important than the brand of paint. Paper is THE most important factor.

[@cgo225]

Cotton paper vs. Wood pulp = no comparison...... The ease of use the vibrant colours and superior finish will boost your confidence - you wouldn't be wasting your money, you'd be investing it. 😊

[@kathadax]

@@mindofwatercolorWasn’t it Turner who said, “Respect your ground.,” to the young artist who asked him for advice?

[@MaroneySimone]

I've been watching your videos, nearly one a night, for a year now as I work on my watercolour skills. I didn't think much of the watercolour paper suggestions, just kept going with whatever I had on hand until I received a pad of quality paper as a Christmas gift. I am now a convert: what a difference it makes in my finished products. I'm completely flabbergasted by the difference.

[@stefbranc]

Hi Steve. I love your channel. You were a driving force in inspiring me to get serious about watercolor. Thank you. For those on a budget, start off slowly when buying expensive materials. Aquire things little by little over time. Shop on sale, discount sites or when art stores go out of buisness. Before long you will have great supplies.

[@lindacarreira8106]

Great demonstration. I think Canson XL and Strathmore 400 are fine for crafters and cardmakers since we don’t do too much layering and glazing, but for the typical watercolor painting, definitely Arches or similar. Thanks, Steve. Very helpful.

[@peggydid]

I agree, Linda. I'm a crafter, not a painter! But I loved seeing the tests!

[@MicheleLHarvey]

Steve, you've created a clear, demonstrative video on a very ticklish subject. Well done! What can also be overlooked is the longterm survivability of cotton vs wood pulp papers. Because cotton is interlocking fibers (which make it harder to tear,) it also makes it far more durable. If the choice in paper is something or nothing due to cost, definitely something is preferable. But given the choice, I agree wholeheartedly, one should never stint. 100% cotton rag (preferably 140 lb. or better) is the way to go!

[@rubylund7385]

Just started watercolours 3 months ago and recently bought Arches.It was a game changer. Especially for wet on wet and blending. I Will use the Canson for quick doodles with ink that I colour in or I use extra paint to paint random shapes that I doodle on with gel pens. This is great for stress management.

[@judyslosingit766]

As a beginner watercolorist, I really appreciated your video. You explained why I've been having so many problems with techniques! While I may not be able to always afford a stock like Arches, at least I will understand why the colors are not mixing the way I'd like and why the colors aren't as vibrant. Thanks!!

[@evetteurbino]

Steve, Great comparisons. I'm not an experienced artist... Yet... However, I have learned and experienced the same issues with less expensive papers. I once read an article, years ago and can't remember where, that in order to have a good experience while learning to watercolor and not become disillusioned, it is better to begin using better quality paper and paint brushes right off from the beginning (meaning more expensive ) because one will produce better quality paintings; even if one is just learning, than mediocre paintings, or just plain no good quality paintings. One is more likely to be pleased with ones accomplishments, stimulated, and more eager to continue. I experienced using less expensive paper/paint brush and was disheartened by the outcome, but fortunately I read this article and recognized quickly what my issue was. It also depends on what you are doing, like stamping, crafting, etc. I also learned that one does not need to buy the most expensive paper/paint brushes; because there are many more expensive out there. In addition, start by buying just want you really need. Learn first, then gradually go on to higher quality, if you can. Following your advise is the best, as I have experienced it to be. This is a great video and I really appreciate the time you take to teach us. So thank you very much and have a great day. 🙂

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yes! Good input thanks!

[@s4andy63]

I have been painting on Canson XL paper. It is miserable to paint on. The only possible Benefit to using this crappy paper, is that it makes you work really hard at perfecting your skills. I think this shouldn’t even be marketed as watercolor paper. It is not! As soon as I have a dime to spend I’m running to my nearest art store to buy Arches. Until then, the struggle is real.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Great testimonial! Miserable is right! Thanks!

[@sketchingjohn1852]

Is the Canson Montval paper any better? I love spiral sketchbooks, but was burned by Canson XL. It's left me wary of any Canson product.

[@atelierringo8895]

s4andy63 There are a lot of other less expensive 100% cotton or cotton rag papers. Fabriano for example has a 100% cotton version, canson has as well. Look what is local for you to buy and try those brands and see if you like them - they are going be less expensive then imported brands ^^

[@cassiescreations9828]

Yes miserable!

[@TheSgyro]

sketchingjohn arches is distributed by canson too😜.. So dont think they're bad at everything 😁

[@emilyhogan2963]

Thank you for saving my painting’s life! I’ve been using Canson XL to save money and never thought it was the culprit of all the splotchiness and back running! Arches is so worth it.

[@viviennewilliams5895]

Excellent , thank you. Even if the papers you demonstrated on are not in the range available in one’s own country, it is a good exercise to try with the papers that are! I suggest that rather than buy a whole pad , perhaps get single sheets of paper in the various makes available and then make an informed choice as to what to spend money on in terms of expensive pads . I’ve found that good paper, a few reasonable brushes and a few good pigment paints can improve what you can achieve! Happily still learning! Thanks Steve

[@mindofwatercolor]

Well said, thanks Vivienne!

[@purpleslippers8]

I am mind blown at these demonstrations. I know now why I’ve been having trouble getting the results I want! I thought it was just me! I’m so happy after watching this video I could cry! I almost gave up on watercolor.

[@NetteSproule85]

I'm glad to hear that you didn't give up 😊

[@purpleslippers8]

Thanks. ☺️ Me too! Art is my passion, and I love adding to my options of mediums.

[@Plookiss]

I purchased some wood pulp and now I've ordered Arches, makes total sense. I am a beginner and felt the difference straight away.

[@hannahoa23]

Thank you ever so much for all your videos, I absolutely love them all. I started painting 10 months ago on Canson and Clairefontaine student grade paper. And when summer came along, the paint was drying literally as I put it down. It was so frustrating!! So I tried buying a large Arches sheet that I cut down. And I’ve never looked back! Now it’s winter again but I only buy Arches!! I practise on it now too because I never know what’s going to come out well or not. It was too stressful telling myself I had to “do something good” on Arches. It’s totally worth the money. I still buy the large sheets and cut them down to all sorts of sizes. Maybe it’s cheaper here because I live in France, but at the end of the month, it’s actually not that expensive as it takes a few days of layering to finish a painting. Thank you, your KZbin channel is the best!!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Excellent testimonial Hannah. Couldn't agree more. Thanks!

[@jena880]

Thank you for this! I’ve been so into using XL for practice and get discouraged with the results and now after watching this I can see that some(no doubt, not all) my discouragement is trying to lift, layer and glaze on XL! Hoarding the Arches for after I have detailed it down on the XL may be the wrong way to be working on my paintings so thank you! Now off to repaint all my cast offs on the good stuff 😊

[@kithicorforest1502]

The painting of the red balls with a glaze is the best apples to apples paper test I've seen and I'm obsessed with these paper comparison videos. Excellent video as always.

[@1msfit]

Well, this is an eye opener! I’m an absolute beginner and have been working on Strathmore 300, a grade below the one demonstrated here. I just recently started trying to do wet on wet gradual washes with 3 colors and have had a terrible time. I started to suspect the paper and was fortunate to find this video. Now I see the problem! Thank you!

[@SeanTWright]

Great showdown, Steve! And for those of us oldies who've been using 100% cotton papers such as Arches and Saunders Waterford for years, it just speaks volumes. To my mind, I'd rather spend the same amount of money and take less sheets of Arches, than waste money, effort and time on the cheap stuff.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yes exactly!

[@MPLangerArt]

Thanks for this Steve. It reinforces my recent need to convert to 100% cotton sketchbooks. Unfortunately I am unable to use Arches since I react to the gelatin sizing badly and that is why I began working in sketchbooks. But because of your reviews of other 100% cotton papers and after a little research I've found several that I can use. I recall you saying that Stonehenge was the closest to Arches you've tried and I certainly enjoy using it. Plus, it's readily available in Canada which is such a help. Fabriano Artistico has been my go-to and I'm just beginning to try Hahnemuhle. Sorry if this is too long but I just wanted to let you know what a terrific resource you have been for me as a beginner. And..... I get such a kick out of how thoroughly goofy you are! Thanks for that as well.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Excellent to hear you've found some good options. Thanks for the kind comments. I just had a commenter say they didn't care for the tom foolery. Oh well, different strokes. I actually stay silly to keep from taking myself too seriously. There are too many art teachers doing that already, plus its just fun. My grandkids love it if nothing else! 😄

[@MPLangerArt]

Tom foolery is truly one of life's finest arts. Keep it up!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Will do!

[@Roslyngal]

Sorry to say...you’re stuck with goofiness, it’s as much ‘you’ as your nose Steve! You can amplify it, but there’s no turning it off. Personally, I’m grateful for it! Any critics of your style would do well to watch more of your videos. Your silliness almost always underlines something important and subtle. It’s not clowning so much as a great technique for teaching. And obviously it endears you to your students to see you being self-deprecating, we spend so much time judging ourselves and our ‘meagre’ talents we need a bit of light-heartedness for balance! Don’t go changin’ (cos you can’t!) Cheers from Melbourne Australia

[@capbin146]

Roslyngal that bit about underlying is spot on, well noticed, maybe I mean expressed but you’re correct.

[@HScorching]

Best video I've seen by far on your channel. You totally convinced me now that paper really matters. I know you said that before but I did not listen until now.

[@mindofwatercolor]

I don't blame you for not listening. I've seen artists claim that you need the best for this or that and the differences were miniscule or mattered less. This is true of things like brushes and paint. Paper is an outlier. Cotton is almost essential when learning especially. I could sense a video like this was needed.

[@susanhamilton1822]

You might want to go to Legion papers and get yourself some samples really cheap. It's a good deal.

[@barbaragemin5117]

Thanks Steve. That was very useful. I really needed to SEE what you and other artists have often said.

[@gloriasprung4554]

What an eye-opener! As a beginner I thought I would practice on cheap paper to get the hang of watercolor. Now I know why I wasn't making any progress. Thank you Steve!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Common tale, thanks Gloria!

[@manicangel7796]

16 secs in and I like him. He's making watercolor pads talk.... Thank you for the comparison, I need to be convinced to spend my life saving on Arches.

[@conniemartin9150]

I have used all kinds, and I will never stray from Arches again. Another thing that performs very well on Arches paper and poorly on every other watercolour paper I’ve tried is scraping, i.e. to give an old barn a weathered look. You can’t compare! All paper I’ve tried besides Arches performs badly to being scraped-just awful. It's expensive in Canada, but so what?! You get the best results and most pleasure painting!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Hmm interesting. I don’t like scraping as a technique personally because I can’t seem to make it do exactly what I want but may give it another go.

[@conniemartin9150]

With Arches' rough paper I can get the weathered look on a barn with dry brushing, but if I put too much paint on, I usually use blade #10 with the knife in the link below to scrape off and the effect is wonderful. It scrapes easily and doesn’t tear the paper. This is, of course, after the paint and paper are thoroughly dry. www.currys.com/catalogpc.htm?Category=EXCEL_KNIFE_1&Source=Search

[@mrspock2al]

Steve... this is a very effective & dramatic demonstration of the drawbacks to these "cheap" papers. Probably like others, I've been lured into buying these from the local hobby store (ie. the 40% off places). Never again - especially after watching your tests. A big thanks to you & Reese - you've saved us from wasting $$$.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks Alan. Glad you see it that way. I believe it whole heartedly.

[@mearis8133]

The 40% off places have Arches. I've gotten sheets and pads there. :)

[@techoasys]

I just started watercolor painting after watching numerous tutorial videos, and this video showcased many of the issues I was having with the Canson XL paper I was using. Colors were not blending well, but rather seemed to splotch everywhere, and I felt it difficult to control where they went. As a beginner, I need all the help I can get, and if paying extra for Arches allows me to enjoy this hobby more, and obtain the work I'm yearning for then Arches it will be. I kindly thank you for all the hard work you put into creating this wonderful demonstration for all of us here. I am now a subscriber and cannot wait to learn more from you.

[@SS-ej2ls]

I had some Canson on hand and bought a small amount of Arches. I find Arches is so much better. I feel like I have more control and there is an actual sensual pleasure using it. I have to work harder to get the same results using Canson. I’m a newbie so I’m going to continue to practice with Canson. When I’m braver I’ll use my Arches :)

[@krabfingers8473]

I'm planning to do the same! However, Arches is super expensive and out of my budget range, and my local art store sells Clairefontaine 100% cotton WC paper which I'll buy a 22" x 30" sheet of to see if it's good. I heard people say Clairefontaine paper is on the same level as Arches, but I wouldn't know because I don't have either yet haha. A full sheet of CF is around $6.90 while Arches is $10 :( my wallet thanks me.

[@kylah.1592]

I started watercolor painting February of last year, and I started on Strathmore 400 watercolor paper in a journal. I quickly found myself being frustrated when I was unable to get the results I wanted, especially when it came to layering or wet in wet. I only ended up with about three paintings in the whole finished journal that I was actually happy with. Finally in November I bought a small pack of 5×7 100% cotton watercolor paper to paint Christmas cards for my family on, and it blew my mind how much easier it was to use. Immediately I was able to get much more satisfactory results even with my cheap paints, and I finally felt like I wasn't fighting my materials while I painted. After this experience I'll never go back to wood pulp for watercolor, if I want a journal again I'll make my own using full sheets of Arches or some such brand.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Great testimonial Kyla. Good for people to hear!

[@Shatril1]

This explains so much about the papers, and the things that drive me crazy with the painting. Arches is it for me now. Thanks for this tutorial. I love you and Reese, you make my day.

[@ginabadeaux9319]

ive been painting for 25 years i love all paints and papers i watch alot of you elling us the more expensive supplies are the best my favorite painting i did is on cheap supplies it depends more on your skills in my opinion

[@mindofwatercolor]

Quality supplies can't replace skill thats true. But they are an enhancement to good skills. Woodcarvers don't carve with dull blades.

[@morna45]

Once I started using D'Arches, there was no other paper for me to take seriously, except maybe Fabriano. That was some 32 years ago before the internet, and before other artists could make informative videos. To this day, D'Arches is the standard by which I measure any and all watercolor papers. I would cut up a large sheet and make my own watercolor sketch books with it before I invested in anything cheap. Thanks for this video -- which only reminds me of how right I was to trust my instincts about the greatest paper ever for watercolors.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yes. Pretty much the predominate opinion. Especially among experience watercolorists and pros.

[@maryk1668]

When starting watercoring I used what I thought were good papers including canson xl because they came from a craft and hobby store. My grandchildren ( ages 2 to 5 years) have pretty good results with their crayola paint sets and canson ( better than copy paper😜) After watching your videos I was inspired to try Arches. Ahhhh! While I’m still in the infant watercolor stage, Arches has made a huge difference !! I still have a supply of the cheap stuff that I cant bear to waste and use for pre design, quick practice and grandchildren. My 5 year old grandaughter has shown a big interest in painting and will be entering a local art show. Without hesitation I gave her some Arches for her final entrees and have also given her some better watercolor brushes. Of course art supplies are on my list to give to her for Christmas! She enjoys painting with me and I’m hoping this will be a lifetime activity for her. It’s always been a joy spending time with her and now to have the love of art in common is pretty cool. When she gets older I will be introducing her to you on KZbin 😊

[@painovoimaton]

The moment you got to Arches with the Prussian blue convinced me to get cotton paper asap. The way the paint just immediately sinks into the cotton is incredible.

[@maureenkennedy3234]

This is a great video! Thank you! After 40 years (and should be for anyone starting out) if you aren't learning with the real thing, you aren't really learning much. I've learned the hardest way to just bite the bullet and buy the Arches paper. There are a few other cottons that aren't bad on blocks on Amazon, the real water color artists will provide very candid reviews. Some times lately you can actually get Arches on sale which was impossible in years past. The truth is - watercolor just takes a lot of hours of practice and determination to develop skill so why make it any harder? Wood pulp paper doesn't act like gelatin sized cotton paper because it cant - it's made from wood. What happens when you paint has to be consistent to experience success. The wood pulp fibers in lower cost paper is not the same. I've tried to explain to people to look at cotton paper like its hardened fabric. How does fabric react when you spill water on it? How does a piece of paper react when you spill something on it? The piece of paper will buckle and expand and never return to its former size. The molecular property of wood fibers actually dissolves in water. Cotton will expand but will shrink back to its original size when it dries. For me, the most cost effective solution has been using the back of failed work for practice and buying large sheets from an art supply store. I cut the sheets it into smaller pieces. Every painting I work on has a piece of the back of some bad painting I've cut into small cards and set off to the side to test color/strokes anyway. The cotton paper I buy doesn't go to waste so just buy the damn cotton!

[@misa8836]

For all of you who cannot afford the paper, Arches is sold at michaels and you can use their coupons for it, usually 40-60% off but the coupons vary everyday. it was priced at $28 for me & i got it for $14. same price as the cheap paper! i hope this helps someone, we all deserve good paper for the low

[@nanagaga2001]

Thank you so much for doing this comparison on video. I knew the the quality of the paper makes a difference but I had no idea how much! I've been blaming my own mediocre skills for crappy results when it was probably at last 50% due to the crappy paper.

[@gael606]

Hoping this is my case too-gonna find out tomorrow!!!

[@navyboymommygramma]

This reminds me of my first driving lesson. I know right? What's the connection? you say. Well I'll tell ya. Haha My dad took me up in the hills on a gravel road, not much wider than one lane, a rock cliff on one side and a drop into oblivion on the other, AND the cherry on top of this little treat was the Ford stick shift we were in, yeah I know, a Ford! We But anyways his way of thinking was if I (lived) learned to drive there and in that I could drive anywhere in anything later. And right there is where the two are similar. If you can learn to paint and paint well on the crap paper then you'll be frickin amazing when you get hold of the good stuff. Use the crap paper, computer paper even, to learn brush strokes, color mixing etc. Then move up in paper grade as your skills improve. Now😁 and have a fabulous day

[@recoveringsoul755]

Someone let me in their stick shift truck backed up to a cliff on gravel. I could not do anything but get closer to the edge. Had to shut it off and let him drive it out of there.

[@jeng5591]

thankyou so much for this video. I was following your instructions meticulously and noticing that things weren't happening the same. Then I came to a point when I thought- maybe there is a difference in different papers...and then found this video. Now I don't feel like such a schmuck after all 😅 I'm all for making my life simple and easy, especially as a beginner, when there's already a lot of variables to be aware of. I only just found your channel this week and am a sponge for all your great teaching and laugh out loud at your sense of humour- I love how you teach free of ego and seriousness. It makes learning so much easier. thanks Steve ps I also love how lots of other teachers watch and comment on your videos...I know I must be in the right place 😉

[@CatherineRMoore]

Seeing is believing. Thanks for taking the time to do this demonstration.

[@kimberlygriffin5012]

Many, many, many moons ago, my college art instructor told us to get Arches blocks. As a student, I was dismayed by the cost. Watercolor was not my friend so I put it aside. Fast forward to today and as I was rather skeptical that there would be a big difference in papers (I bought Canson XL), you have opened my eyes. I am learning watercolor with the help of your fabulous videos and I PROMISE to go get Arches as soon as I can!! Thank you for all that you do!

[@susananncherrysetter3902]

I'm not a beginner , I'm a old lady watercolorist (almost 74) ...I am staring at two, new, very large pads of canson XL watercolor paper ......I need to borrow your sign.

[@mindofwatercolor]

LOL! That was funny! Seriously though, its pretty good for line and wash. And not terrible for watercolor pencil. If you do any other media its pretty good for gouache or standard colored pencil.

[@coopergurl90]

I was about to ask if it was good for goache and found my answer here! Thank you. I was hoping my new pads wouldn’t go to waste.

[@oliviajames942]

I know I’m super late but I’ve been getting into watercolor for the last few months and I was doing well working with Canson but then one day I was trying to paint and couldn’t do much because the paper was drying too quickly. Afterward, I decided to buy 100% cotton paper and dear lord is it so much better. This really made me happy as I realized I had improved enough to where the cheap paper was not enough and I knew I needed better paper. I understand now when people say the paper is more important than the brushes and paint. Anyway thank you for sharing this video!

[@trishbrown3285]

I am a beginner and purchased 100% rag cotton and Canson Xl and want to just set aside the Canson for the children in my life after practicing with it. This demonstration helps put words to why I feel like that. Thank you.

[@marissaswinghammer3149]

Just so you know for those of us outside the US Arches can be one of the most expensive papers out there when there are plenty of just as good or even better 100% cotton papers readily available. There is no cheap Arches to be found here in my experience but I did get some wonderful cotton paper at a serious discount and I stocked up and I love it. I do agree that cotton paper is the way to go.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yes. Fabriano Artistico, Saunders Waterford, Hahnemuehle all great papers.

[@MeganMcCar]

Marissa Swinghammer where did you get it and what country? Am having terrible time getting watercolour paper here in Aussie

[@DoodleDrawArt]

Thanks Steve! I just did a livestream where I compared 4 types of paper, 2 pulp and 2 cotton, my verdict was the same as yours! I just bought my first pads of arches, and love them! I got a great sale on them at Michael's they were BOGO. I'm in Canada, and good quality paper is hard to come by and very costly, in my neck of the woods. I'm new to watercolors and was trying to do good work with CansonXL and some Cotman student grade pans. I'm falling in love with watercolors and have bit the bullet.... Daniel Smith paints are on their way to me in the mail!

[@Slumberjacksix]

I both drew (pencil) and played around with oil paint YEARS AGO. Just took up watercolor. I am glad i found your channel. Thank you, sir!

[@MathinusG]

Thanks! The best side by side comparison ever. I've struggled with exactly the same for ages on cheaper papers but thought it was me not knowing how to handle it. I wasted loads of money not getting what I wanted on inferior papers.

[@CeruleanCzarina]

This review was incredibly helpful! I too have been frustrated with practicing watercolor techniques on Canson XL paper. As a result, I recently started to repurpose my stock of this paper for color swatches and color mixing so that I don't have to swatch in my art journals. Thank you for the in-depth review that explained WHY this paper is challenging to work with!

[@JenniferCharleeArt]

Only since starting my channel have I really began looking into changing the paper I use. I have enjoyed my canson XL because of the price and availability especially in the sketchbook form. I FINALLY just picked up the aqua bee 100% cotton paper and I'm excited to finally try out the arches cold press at some point when I have a Michael's coupon/gift card. Great info on these papers, thank you!

[@beesareLameWasps]

thanks for the thorough take on the different paper. You've got your tastes, but the way the paper responds kind of speaks for itself, like you said. I used to hate watercolour years ago, and I'm 99% sure it was just terrible mixed media paper, especially at this point because I love it now.

[@christinacasteel3198]

I have watched so many demonstrations but yours was the best and you just earned an admiring subscriber 😊. Thank you!

[@Sabrina.Cruz.]

At least now I know the problem is not me. I really needed that confirmation. It has totally changed my learning process from now on. Thanks a lot!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

This video is absolutely wonderful. Love the honesty and the side-by-side comparison!

[@kareanwilliams]

Wow, thank you for taking the time to compare the differences in these papers. I now can see the differences in my work. I really appreciate. I use a lot of 100% cotton rag. Sometimes, it soaks up all the water so fast I can't get it to move, but now I know better. Thanks a million. Love your work. I have learned a lot over the last couple of years that I have been following you. So appreciate.

[@colombepetite]

I am learning how to paint with watercolor, and your examples here show me the exact issues I’ve been having. I have Canson XL and I just haven’t been able to get the effects I’ve been trying. My instructor was helpful, but since my class is a leisure one (most of us are retired) I did not want to spend much money on something I wasn’t sure of. I just signed up to continue the next session, and now I feel like I’d like to invest in better paper. Thank you for showing the differences.

[@FigsArtsandCrafts]

I learned loads in this video. I didn’t think it made a difference but now I know better! Thanks!