WATERCOLOR JOURNALS – There is just something special about opening a crisp new journal and flipping through its smooth white pages. I’ve tried a number of watercolor journals over my years of painting – but I have to say I’ve never quite fallen in love with one as much as this.
WATERCOLOR JOURNALS
// You See I’m Quite Picky
Yeah – you heard me! I’m extremely picky when it comes to my paper. I even put together a whole series testing out a bunch of random watercolor papers from different brands, so if that sounds useful, keep an eye out for it on the blog. With that said – I have a few qualifiers when it comes to a good watercolor paper in my book.
1 // 100% Cotton
My first qualifier is that the paper must be 100% cotton. After testing hundreds of papers – there just really isn’t anything like painting on pure cotton.
2 // Smooth Tooth
My second qualifier is that the paper must have a smooth tooth, or texture. Hot press paper – paper that has been “hot ironed” flat – is the smoothest type of paper to paint on. I love working on smooth surfaces since it lets me add intricate ink and pencil details that might otherwise get lost. Cold press paper is great for water control and a bit easier to work on, but I still have a sweet spot in my heart for hot press.
3 // Saturation of Color
My last qualifier is that the paper must absorb my paints with ease – giving me the best coverage and color payoff.
// The Results Are In…
After working in this journal for a month, I have to say I’ve loved every minute. I’ve tried swatching colors, glazing, and even pushed it with some wet-on-wet effects. Overall, for the price, I’m extremely happy! Is it the best paper I’ve ever painted on – no. I still have a sweet spot in my heart for 300lb paper in sheets, but that’s a story for another post. That said – is it the best watercolor journal I’ve worked in – yes. If you’d like to snatch one up for yourself, check out the link below. If you purchase through that link, I’ll earn a small commission! So thanks in advance, and happy painting.