Watercolor paper

Watercolor paper (or watercolour paper) is paper or substrate onto which an artist applies watercolor paints, pigments, or dyes. Many types of paper are manufactured specifically for watercolour painting. The paper may be made of wood pulp exclusively, or mixed with cotton fibers. Pure cotton watercolor paper is also used but it is more expensive than pulp-based paper. Some watercolourists prefer an acid-free medium.

Watercolor paper may be hot-pressed, cold-pressed, or rough. Paper traditionally comes in either 90, 140, or 300 lb weights. Prices range from affordable to more expensive and higher quality.