Fine Art Paper and Non-Canvas Supports for Artists

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Resources for Artists - information and suppliers

This is a resource for artists about fine art paper and sketchbooks for visual artists who draw and paint.

It provides information about and links to suppliers of different brands of fine art paper and other non-canvas supports.  Plus information about how to make paper.

This site covers:
* a guide to paper and non-canvas supports
* a glossary of paper terms and works
* fine art paper suppliers and paper mills
* how to make paper, plus videos and papermaking supplies
* links relating to different types and brands of fine art paper
* sketchbooks
* blogging about paper

Why I created this resource about fine art paper and non-canvas supports

To learn more about paper - and find it!

I'm very fussy about what paper or support I will draw on - and at the same time I'm very curious about new supports, particularly the ones my local art suppliers don't carry!

When I go abroad, one of the first places I always visit is the local art shop and my jaw just keeps dropping when I realise what a huge range of papers and other non-canvas supports actually exist. This lens aims to extend my choice - and yours.

I hope as it extends and becomes a bit more popular to make this lens a bit more interactive so we can all understand better which suppliers offer the best range and which offer the best packaging/delivery arrangements

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New links are being added to this site on a regular basis.

If you like this site please feel free to add a link to it on your website.

If you enjoyed reading this lens, then why not share it with your friends? You can create a bookmark or link within various social network sites and/or e-mail this site

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Important!

A GUIDE TO PAPER

A guide to paper and other non-canvas supports

Paper products and other supports are very complex products.

Understanding how they are produced helps an artist to understand whether they are making the best choice of paper or support for their artwork. All the sites listed below provide information about what paper is, how quality is assessed and how it is made

For technical terms see the Glossary (next module)

R. K. Burt UK - Fine Art Papers - Product Range
Guide to watercolour papers
ISO 9706
ISO 9706Information and Documentation - Paper for Documents - Requirements for Permanence. Characteristics, Specification and Comments
R. K. Burt UK - Fine Art Papers: How Long is Long Life?
Some papers are described as permanent or long life, and may include the infinity symbol in the advertising literature. However, paper is organic, biodegradable cellulose fibres derived from plant matter, which effectively contradicts the notion of permanence. Therefore, it needs to be understood that the life expectancy will depend on the source and quality of the fibre as well as the chemicals applied during pulp and paper production. The subsequent processes of printing and storage will also be crucial to the rate of subsequent degradation.
A4 paper format / International standard paper sizes
Explains standard paper sizes like ISO A4
that are today widely used all over the world.
Fox River Paper - Paper: International Sizes
There are three ranges of sizes, prefixed A, B and C. The most widely used for general printing and letterhead stationary is the A series. The international letterhead size is an A4
Artpaper: Archival Concerns: A Discussion of Fiber and Process
Written by Coral Jensen, previous owner of True Blue Art Supply and Artpaper Inc
The Japanese Paper Place - About Washi
Washi is the Japanese word for the traditional papers made from the long inner fibres of three plants, wa meaning Japanese and shi meaning paper. As Japan rushes with the rest of the world into the 21st Century, and more modern technologies take over, machines p
Paper - Rhonda Farfan, Executive Vice President of Consumer Standards Emeritus, CPSA
Summary of the characteristics of paper - based on "Which Paper?" By Silvie Turner
Inveresk - History of papermaking
The basic processes of papermaking have remained unchanged for nearly two thousand years paper
Museum of Paper and Watermarks in Fabriano
Paper and Watermark Museum official site
Sito ufficiale del Museo della Carta e della Filigrana. Il museo ricostruisce la storia della prima cartiera dell'Europa medievale e raccoglie campioni, pregiati o correnti, della produzione di carta, punzoni, attrezzi e torchi.
Paper and watermark museum - raw materials
The raw materials used in manufacturing paper may be divided into 4 broad groups
Mould Made Paper | inveresk.co.uk
Mould made papers simulate the handmade process on a mechanised paper machine. These papers can be mistaken for handmade but there are distinct differences. The mould is not held by the hand; instead it's replaced by a slowly rotating cylinder mould,
Watercolour Paper Surfaces | inveresk.co.uk
As watercolour paint is translucent, the surface of the paper does show through the finished piece of work. The type of surface should be chosen with the type of composition the artist has in mind. There are three watercolour surfaces to choose from.
R. K. Burt UK - Fine Art Papers -Watercolour paper Guide
Watercolour Paper Guide
Griffen Mill - Miscellenea re paper making and cartridge paper
The Origin of Shadow Lines in Paper
Notes on Sizing
Producing Coloured Paper
Brief History of Cartridge Paper

VIDEO: Selecting Art Paper

A helpful and succinct video explaining the different basic characteristics of fine art paper. She talks fast so people less familiar with fine art paper might like to play it a couple of times.

Selecting Art Paper
by BlickVideos | video info

22 ratings | 2,867 views
curated content from YouTube

A Glossary of Paper Terms and Words

Do you want to understand what all the technical words relating to paper and papermaking actually mean?

British Association of Paper Historians - Glossary of Papermaking Terms
BAPH - British Association of Paper Historians - Glossary of Papermaking Terms
Artpaper.com - Glossary of Paper Terminology
Glossary
Fox River Paper - Glossary of paper terms - A to E
Glossary
Fox River Paper - Glossary - F to J
Fox River Paper - Glossary - F to J
Fox River Paper - Glossary - K to O
Fox River Paper - Glossary - K to O
Fox River Paper - Glossary - P to T
Fox River Paper - Glossary - P to T
Fox River Paper - Glossary - U to Z
Fox River Paper - Glossary - U to Z
Inveresk - Glossary of terms in papermaking
List of papermaking terms and explanations
Glossary of Terms | inveresk.co.uk
glossary of terms relating to paper and paper-making
Glossary of Papermaking Terms
Glossary of terms and concepts describing the innovations and processes described in the biographies of the Paper Industry International Hall of Fame.

Paper Weight Conversion - lbs to gsm and gsm to lbs

Paper is quantified by weight as well as size. The thickness of a sheet of paper is indicated by its weight, measured either in grams per square meter (gsm) or pounds per ream (lb).

Paper Weight Conversion from lbs to gsm or vice versa
Unicorn Graphics - paper weight conversion - lbs to gsm or gsm to lbs.

Simply select a weight category using the pull down menu on the left, and then enter a value in pounds. Then hit calculate, and the tool will display the result in gsm. To reverse a calculation, select the option "gsm->lbs" at the bottom and supply the gsm value.
Paper Weight Conversion Chart - Grams to Lbs
The European measurement of describing paper weight measures a single paper with a two dimensional height and width of one square meter. This measurement is noted as g/m2 (gm/m2, gsm, g/m2). The measurement may be measuring a hypothetical square meter, but is a good "apples to apples" reference because it compares the weights of different size papers.

The English method of paper weight may be more familiar to people, but it has its drawbacks when comparing weights of different size paper.
eBay Guides - Paper Weights and Finishes
Paper weights and types can be very confusing. What follows is a general guide to help understand the sizes and terms and to associate them with items that you are familiar with.
British Association of Paper Historians - Old English Paper Sizes
British Association of Paper Historians - Old English Paper Sizes
This is intended as a guide only and is not to be taken as
definitive.

'A' Series and Letter/Legal - a comparison of paper sizes

an illustrated comparison of the different sizes of paper

A series paper sizes with comparison to Letter and Legal

Right click the image to get the precise dimensions in a new tab

How to make paper

papermaking at home and by the professionals

Hand Papermaking Home Page
THE source for comprehensive, up-to-date information about hand papermaking and handmade paper, world-wide.

Hand Papermaking, Inc., is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing traditional and contemporary ideas in the art of hand papermaking through publications and other educational formats. Founded in 1986 with the publication of the first issue of Hand Papermaking magazine, the primary goal of the organization has been to provide information to a diverse international audience of paper artists, mills, dealers, historians, conservators, and other aficionados of handmade paper.
Making Paper at Home
Making and Recycling Paper at Home
G. Carboni, January 2005 Translated by Jennifer Spears
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Introduction; History of paper; How to make paper at home; Recycling paper; Recycling raw materials; Conclusion; Bibliography
Papermaking
The art of papermaking has a long and interesting history. The following procedures given are simplified versions of traditional methods. Once basic papermaking is understood, one can make many beautiful papers using plant materials and flowers.
With some skill and creativity, sheets of paper can become works of art using dyes and Japanese fibers such as Kozo.

Includes Photo tutorial by papermaking artist, Dixie Junius.
Paper making kits, supplies & casting by Arnold Grummer - how to make paper
How to Make Paper: Paper making at home is fun and easy. You will need water, fiber and a handmold. Get water from your sink. Wastepaper will provide you with all the fiber you'll ever need. A handmold is a paper making screen sandwiched between a deckle (usually a wooden frame) and a support.
Paper making - answers to FAQS by Arnold Grummer
Learn more about the art of paper making - frequently asked questions
The Friends of Dard Hunter, Inc.
Through its publications, and its annual meetings and other means, the Friends will provide a forum to exchange information and educate its members and the public about the art, craft, history, science and technology of papermaking, the book arts, and other diverse interests which captured the imagination of Dard Hunter (1883-1966).
I A P M A
Welcome to the official homepage of IAPMA - International Association of Hand Papermakers and Paper Artists
Historic Rittenhouse Town
Historic Rittenhouse Town [Historic Germantown]
William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, was very proud of the Rittenhouse Mill because such facilities were new even in England. The Rittenhouse Mill was a center of papermaking in America for over one hundred years. A flood destroyed the mill in 1701, but a stronger mill was built in its place with Penn's assistance.
Handpapermaking: Articles for Beginners
Articles on Hand Papermaking for Beginners

These articles for beginning papermakers have appeared in past issues of the Newsletter.

* Sources of Fiber and Pulp
* Common Additives
* Papermaking Moulds
* Grain
* History of Papermaking
* Methods of Beating Fiber
* Methods of Drying Paper
* Embossing
* Safety
* Archival Paper
* Sizing
* Watermarks
* Dyes & Pigments
* What Paper Is, and Is Not
History of Papermaking | inveresk.co.uk
Paper, to be briefly technical, is an aqueous deposit of any vegetable fibre in sheet form. The name, as most people know, comes from the Latin papyrus,which in the hands of the early Egyptians (its first known users) comprised the pith of a grass-like
Making Your Own Paper | inveresk.co.uk
Over half of the raw materials which are used in making paper and board in the UK arrive at the mill as waste paper. Waste paper is collected not only from private homes but from shops, offices and factories and increasingly paper banks
The Handmade Pape Process
The advantages of handmade paper in printmaking

VIDEOS: About papermaking

YouTube videos

Handmade Papermaking
by MeiTheng | video info

0 ratings | 42,207 views
curated content from YouTube

BOOKS: About Paper

books on Amazon

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Important!

FINE ART PAPER SUPPLIERS

Fine Art Paper Suppliers - UK

Do you want to know what sorts of papers are actually available?

R. K. Burt UK - Fine Art Papers
R. K. Burt and Company Ltd. was the first wholesale distributor of fine
art papers to introduce to the UK such now familiar mill names as Arches,
Fabriano, Hahnemühle, Lana, Richard de Bas and Rives.
T N Lawrence & Son Ltd - Paper
TN Lawrence is an on-line and retail supplier of art materials based in Hove. Wide range of paper supplied.
Heaton Cooper Studio Ltd > Papers and Grounds
Vast specialist range of watercolour papers, including many craftsman made sheets, plus all popular papers in sheets, blocks and pads. Pastel and drawing papers in sheets and pads. Oil boards and stretched canvasses, calligraphy and inkjet pads
inveresk.co.uk
Inveresk PLC is a specialist manufacturer of quality mould made fine art paper at St Cuthberts Mill, in the south west of England. Our artists papers are some of the most trusted in their field, and include
- Bockingford an extremely popular watercolour paper, valued for its excellent quality at an affordable price,
- Saunders Waterford a premium quality watercolour paper, used and respected by professional artists and endorsed by the Royal Watercolour Society, and
- Somerset a trusted traditional printmaking paper.
After research and innovation, the pioneering St Cuthberts Mill also makes some stunning fine art inkjet papers called Somerset Enhanced and Bockingford Inkjet.
St Cuthberts Mill Home | inveresk.co.uk
St Cuthberts Mill situated near the ancient Cathedral City of Wells in the south west of England makes two very different highly specialised areas of papers. The mill possesses two paper machines.
Watercolour Drawing Paper from Griffen Mill
Handmade Watercolour & Drawing Paper
John Purcell Paper
John Purcell Paper continue to expand the extensive range of papers and boards that are available from stock from their south London warehouse. The range of mill branded papers and boards from the paper mills at Arches, Canson, Fabriano, Hahnemuhle, Magnani, St. Cuthbert's (Somerset), Zerkall and ot

SLIDESHOW: Shepherds Bookbinders and Falkiner Fine Papers

Southampton Row, London

curated content from Flickr

Fine Art Paper Suppliers - USA

Legion Paper - Fine Art Paper
Legion Paper - your source for fine art paper, digital fine art paper, handmade paper and decorative paper.
Legion Paper - Fine Art Paper - All Other Paper
Information about where you can find retail stores which stock Legion Paper - your source for fine art paper, digital fine art paper, handmade paper and decorative paper.
Legion Paper - Fine Art Paper - Pricing and Paper Resource Catalog
Legion Paper - download sections from this site
Papers and Boards - BLICK art materials
Paper and Boards
Pearl Paint - Paper/Pads
paper and pads
Strathmore Artist Papers - Fine Art Paper, Creative Art Paper, Inkjet Paper
Strathmore Artist Papers - For over 100 years Strathmore Artist Papers has been providing artists with the finest papers on which to create their artwork.
Artpaper - Fine Art paper Suppliers
Our goal remains to provide quality materials, information, and instruction to our customers through qualified experience and an unreasonable dedication to art materials and their applications. We are owned and operated by professional artists and art students.
Art Paper Paper Reference Guide
Book Arts Papers Bookbinding Supplies Calligraphy Papers Drawing & Printmaking Papers Inkjet Papers Painting Papers Restoration Papers Imported & Decorative Papers Paper in Rolls Stationery Envelopes Specials & Promos Product ListingPape
New York Central Art Supply: an assortment of the finest artists and decorative papers in the US
New York Central Art Supply stocks fine art and decorative papers from all over the world in sheets and rolls, and at times in pads and blocks. Renown brands like Arches, Rives, Somerset, Wyndstone, Cockerell, Bertini, Fabriano, Arpa and others are just a few of the excellent qualities represented.
New York Central Art Supply - French Art Papers
Arches and Canson

New York Central Art Supply stocks fine art and decorative papers from all over the world in sheets and rolls, and at times in pads and blocks.
Twinrocker Handmade Papermaking Supplies
The finest handmade stationery, invitations, and artist paper for watercolor, calligraphy, printmaking, book arts, etc. Papermaking supplies for making your own paper at home, at school, and for fine artists

Order supplies and pay on-line anytime, day or night. Stocked orders received by 3 pm EST ship UPS Ground the next day.
Paper Connection
Founded in 1995 by Lauren Pearlman, from the start Paper Connection International has been the exclusive American supplier of papers from Japan's Kochi Prefecture Handmade Paper Co-op Union. The union is made up of approximately 45 paper mills producing hundreds of different styles, colors and materials of beautifully crafted paper. In 1997, Paper Connection expanded its product line to include even more exotic papers from India, Nepal, Latin America, and later China and Korea. Paper Connection is continually searching for new items to add to an already extensive collection of paper products.
Carriage House Paper
Carriage House Paper is a professional hand papermaking studio and a major provider of papermaking supplies and equipment. Workshops are offered on all aspects of papermaking and paper art at our studio in Brooklyn, New York.
Paper.com - your online source for quality paper products
your online source for quality papers for stationery, school, environmentally friendly, art , Office, scrapbooking, printers, crafts, and more

Fine Art Paper Suppliers - Canada

Thanks to Jeanette Jobson/Illustrated Life for these links
The Papertrail
the PapertrailHandmade Paper & Book Arts
The Papertrail is Canada's foremost supplier of materials and equipment for handmade paper.
Sells: all the plant fibre, pulp, colourants and additives required to make paper, as well as moulds, deckles, couching felts, drying systems, and other small equipment.
Also sell their own handmade and marbled papers, materials and hand tools for bookbinding and marbling, and a good selection of instructional books on papermaking, paper decorating, and bookbinding.
Larger equipment such as Hollander beaters, power mixers, and presses, can be supplied on request.
Services include wet pulp preparation using Hollander beater, studio rental by the hour, courses, custom batches of paper and envelopes, and letterpress printing.
Hand Papermaking Supplies From The Paperwright, Canada
The Paperwright is a paper making supply business providing Canada and United States (USA) with pulps, fibres, moulds, papermaking kits, felts, pigments, equipment, workshops, handmade papers, bookbinding supplies, custom built wove and laid molds. International orders are welcome.
St-Armand paper makers - Welcome
The Saint-Armand paper mill was established by David Carruthers in 1979. It manufactures the Saint-Armand handmade papers, the machine-made Canal papers, and the sanded paper Sabretooth for artists.

The mill also
- makes pads, books, presentation folders and invitations
- sells cover stock for albums and books, folding boxes, labels and folders
- distributes archival products in Canada.

Papermaking Supplies

Papermaking Supplies from Daniel Smith Art Materials
Paper sizing, felts for papermaking, cotton lintners and methycellulose
Paper making kits, supplies & casting by Arnold Grummer
Shop Arnold Grummer's for paper making kits, paper making supplies, casting molds, casting supplies, paper presses and learn more about the art of paper making.
Everything the papermaker needs!
Carriage House Paper is a professional hand papermaking studio and a major provider of papermaking supplies and equipment. Workshops are offered on all aspects of papermaking and paper art at our studio in Brooklyn, New York.
Important!

FINE ART PAPER BRANDS

Links to information on manufacturers websites

Arches

For centuries, France's Arches mill has created some of the world's most popular artist papers, for many different uses. Each paper is mouldmade of 100% cotton and bears a watermark unique to the individual grade.

Arches is made by Arjomuri who are part of ArjoWiggins

From the Legion Paper website
Arches papers offer conservation quality, symbolized by the sign of infinity in the watermark of each (see watermarks below). High quality Arches papers offer both beauty and preservation to all those who depend upon paper to endure.

ARCHES - Le choix des artistes depuis 1492
Arches main website - in English
ARCHES - Watercolour and drawing papers
Arches invites you into its universe of exceptional papers designed to serve artists.
Here you will find information on
- the history of the mill,
- paper manufacture,
- the Arches Watercolour range,
- dossiers and advice sheets,
- our distributor list and
- our contact address.
Legion Paper - Fine Art Paper - By Brand - Arches & Rives
For centuries, France's Arches mill has created some of the world's most popular artist papers, for many different uses
Arches Watercolor Blocks - BLICK art materials
Arches Blocks are available in the USA in different paper surfaces and sizes
handprint : watercolor papers - Arches
A review of ARCHES Aquarelle papers which are among the most popular watercolor supports in the world.
Arches paper - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Arches paper is a type of air-dried paper that is preferred amongst printers and watercolorists. It has a warm-white colour and can be found in hot-pressed, cold-pressed, and rough varieties. Arches paper is valued for its durability, and is still made today at the Arches paper mill in Lorraine, France.

Arches Watercolor Block

One of my favourite papers is Arches Hot Press - either bought in whole sheets, which I can then cut to size, or as a block.

Their blocks of paper are particularly useful for drawing outside the studio - either plein air or in a class as the block of paper acts like an art board and you need no other support (although obviously you can use one if you wish.

The paper is hard sized

It works particularly well with my preferred media - pen and ink and coloured pencils. It's possible to make very fine lines in pen and ink. The coloured pencil does not sink into the page as occurs with paper with softer sizing.

You can buy the paper in block as:
* Hot Press - burnt orange cover
* NOT - yellow cover
* Rough - green cover

You need a very sharp craft knife to separate the pages from the block. Look for the way in on the top edge where there is a break in the black sealant. Slide the knife under the top sheet with the sharp edge of the blade oriented towards the sealant. Then just run the blade around the edge of the block and the sheet comes away very easily.

Arches Watercolor Block 140 Pound Hot Press Paper - 9 x 12 Sheets

Amazon Price: $25.61 (as of 05/27/2012)Buy Now
List Price: $42.40

140 Pound Hot Press Paper - 9 x 12 Sheets

Usually ships in 1-2 business days

Fabriano

Fabriano is a very old Italian papermaking firm. Their production includes three types of watercolour paper: Artistico, Uno and Esportatzione

Fabriano Artistico is a very highly rated watercolour paper and is often used and recommended by top class botanical artists

Fine Arts - Fabriano Paper Mills, a trademark of Fedrigoni SpA
Cartiere Miliani Fabriano is a historic, yet modern business with characteristics that are unique in the paper mill world. This is a link to the Fine Arts papers
Artistico Traditional White - Fabriano Paper Mills, a trademark of Fedrigoni SpA
Suitable for watercolour, tempera, gouache, acrylic, ink, charcoal, graphite, drawing and printmaking.
* mould made with 100% cotton,
* conservation paper - chlorine and acid free
* sized both internally and externally "making it ideally absorbent and retaining its nature unaltered even it scratched".
* Traditional white, without optical bleaching.
* Two deckle edges
* watermarked "FABRIANO+ARTISTICO" on the short side.
Artistico Extra White - Fabriano Paper Mills, a trademark of Fedrigoni SpA
Suitable for watercolour, tempera, gouache, acrylic, ink, charcoal, graphite, drawing and printmaking.
* mould made with 100% cotton,
* conservation paper - chlorine and acid free
* sized both internally and externally "making it ideally absorbent and retaining its nature unaltered even it scratched".
* Brillant white, without optical bleaching.
* Two deckle edges
* watermarked "FABRIANO+ARTISTICO" on the short side.
Fabriano - Handmade Papers
Roma, Umbria, Secolo XIII, Fabriano Esportazione, Artistic Watermark
Paper and Watermark Museum - the evolution of watermarks
Towards the end of the 1200's the craftsmen active in Fabriano were in the habit of countersigning their production with watermarks.
handprint : watercolor papers - Fabriano
A review of three lines of Fabriano paper which are important for the watercolorist:

Fabriano Artistico

Fabirano Artistico HP is the paper of choice for very many botanical artists who work in watercolour and/or coloured pencils

Fabriano Artistico 140 lb. Hot Press 20 Sheet Block 9x12" - Extra White

Amazon Price: (as of 05/27/2012)Buy Now
List Price:

140 lb. Hot Press 20 Sheet Block 9x12" - Extra White

Hahnemuhle Fine Art Papers

The Hahnemühle paper mill has been making paper since 1584. It's a German firm with a range of agents around the world. All product descriptions, other than reviews, come from the company's agent's website. There's a lot more detailed information beneath each of the links below

Hahnemühle FineArt - The Art of Expression since 1584
Hahnemühle FineArt - The Art of Expression since 1584
Company website
Hahnemühle FineArt - Traditional Fine Art papers
Hahnemühle FineArt - Traditional Fine Art papers
in our production we employ traditional and proven technologies, using the Fourdrinier and cylinder mould machines. The distinguishing feature of Hahnemühle was and will be the ability to combine tradition with modern technologies. This way, paper is produced according to old recipes, passed from generation to generation, and it continues to meet the highest demands of present-day standard
on-line paper co uk limited Hahnemuhle Fine Art Papers
About Us on-line paper co uk limited
Contact details:on-line paper co uk limited
Unit 19 Bassetts Manor Butcherfield Lane HARTFIELD East Sussex TN7 4LA United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0) 1892 771245
Hahnemühle FineArt - The Art of Expression since 1584
Hahnemühle FineArt - Mould-made Watercolour Boards and Papers
The watercolour paper made by Hahnemühle is a real vat paper, produced on a cylinder mould machine, which gives it the characteristic deckle edge. The use of various types of natural felt gives this paper a unique surface structure.
on-line paper.co.uk - Hahnemuhle Fine Art Watercolour Papers
Natural white, acid free, UV-resistant and of high resistance to ageing. All blocks are glued all around with gauze, ensuring good flatness when wet. This voluminous board with its smooth surface texture ensures an excellent flow and brilliance of colours. This 600 gsm quality is suitable for all wet painting techniques such as watercolour, gouache, tempera and acrylic.
Hahnemühle FineArt - Lana Beaux-Arts
The French firm Lana can, like the German company Hahnemühle, lay claim to being one of the oldest paper producers in Europe. Lana was founded in 1590 in the Vosges area near the Gallo-Roman settlement Villa Lana. In 1872 the factory was established in Strasbourg. In 2007 the LANA Papiers Spéciaux company was founded. Since then Hahnemühle FineArt GmbH has been a strong partner for the worldwide distribution of Lana art papers.
Hahnemühle Fine Art Oil & Acrylic Papers
Oil & Acrylic Selection pad Hahnemühle offers a wide range of oil and acrylic papers and boards, many of which are especially suitable for beginners and professional artists alike. The surface of three oil and acrylic painting papers appears like the linen structure of a real canvas in natural white. The other two qualities of acrylic painting boards have a fine structured surface in bright white and natural white with which clear colour reproduction and beautiful flow of colours can be achieved. The weights vary between 230 gsm and 450 gsm.
Hahnemühle Fine Art Pastel Papers
The Pastel Selection pad offers a wide range of papers, many of which are especially suitable for beginners and professional artists alike. The Pastel Selection pad contains 10 paper qualities showing a variety of different pastel surfaces and weights. It includes two sheets of the high quality mould-made pastel paper "Bugra" in white and yellowish. The entire colour palette of Ingres and Bugra offers more than 20 colours. Mould made "Ingres" in white and ivory, with its finely ribbed surface Ingres is ideally suitable for artistic dry painting and drawing techniques such as pastel, charcoal and pencil
Hahnemühle FineArt - FineArt InkJet Media
Hahnemühle FineArt - FineArt InkJet Media
Our papers provide an impressive and unique way to combine the precision of digital print media with the wonderful grace of genuine artist papers made in a traditional way. All our products meet the highest standards of colour range, depth, contrast, rendering and colour gradation. This enables extraordinary print results. The close cooperation maintained with leading inkjet printer manufacturers assures the universal compatibility of our products.
handprint : watercolor papers - Hahnemuhle
A review of the Hahnemuhle Aquarelle and the Hahnemühle Albrecht Durer Watercolor papers

John Purcell Paper

John Purcell Paper has an extensive range of papers and boards available from stock from their south London warehouse. They update their range of mill branded papers and boards from the paper mills at Arches, Canson, Fabriano, Hahnemuhle, Magnani, St. Cuthbert's (Somerset), Zerkall and others on a regular basis in response to customers' needs.

John Purcell Paper, 15 Rumsey Road, London SW9 0TR
T: 020 7737 5199
F: 020 7737 6765
E: jpp@johnpurcell.net

RWS Watercolour by John Purcell paper
Working in conjunction with the President and Council of The Royal Watercolour Society, John Purcell Paper created a new watercolour paper with a cotton and linen furnish, surface sized with gelatine, deckled edged. and watermarked ROYAL WATERCOLOUR SOCIETY and stamped RWS on each sheet. Available in 50 x 65 cms and 56 x 76 cms in 300gsm and 425gsm in HP, NOT and Rough surfaces.
John Purcell Paper
John Purcell Paper continue to expand the extensive range of papers and boards that are available from stock from their south London warehouse. The range of mill branded papers and boards from the paper mills at Arches, Canson, Fabriano, Hahnemuhle, Magnani, St. Cuthbert's (Somerset), Zerkall and ot

St Cuthbert's Mill Papers

St Cuthberts Mill is a world leading manufacturer of quality mould made artist papers. Situated in the southwest of England, this historic paper mill has been making paper since the 1700's.

The links below provide further links to the range and spec.sheet for each type of paper.

All descriptions come from the company website.

St Cuthberts Mill | inveresk.co.uk
St Cuthberts Mill specialises in making high quality artist papers. These papers are all mould made using a traditional cylinder mould machine, giving the sheet excellent surface stability and superior strength when compared to standard fourdrinier/machine made papers. Mould made papers offer consistent quality with each sheet guaranteed to perform the same as the last. The papers are manufactured to museum grade archivability using pure raw materials. The sheets are buffered with calcium carbonate to help defend finished pieces of work from discolouration caused by acids present in pollution.
Bockingford
Bockingford is a beautiful English watercolour paper, traditionally made on a cylinder mould machine at St Cuthberts Mill. This is a high quality paper made using pure materials to archival standards.

Its attractive surface is created using natural woollen felts that give it a distinctive random texture. Appreciated for its excellent colour lifting abilities. This is an extremely forgiving watercolour paper valued by professional and amateur artists around the world.

Bockingford offers quality watercolour paper at an affordable price.
Saunders Waterford - Professional Watercolour Paper | inveresk.co.uk
Saunders Waterford is an exquisite English watercolour paper, traditionally made on a cylinder mould machine. This is the superior quality paper made at St Cuthberts Mill and comes with the Royal Watercolour Society's endorsement. Made using 100% cotton, the highest quality papermaking material, to archival standards. Each sheet is buffered with calcium carbonate to help defend finished pieces of work from discolouration caused by acids present in pollution.

The paper has a creamy white colour and its attractive surface is created using natural woollen felts that give it a distinctive random texture. The surface is coated in gelatine making it strong and resilient to scrubbing and other rough treatments without the surface tearing.

Saunders Waterford is a high quality professional watercolour paper.
Printmaking Papers (Traditional) | inveresk.co.uk
Somerset is a world leading traditional printmaking paper. It is mould made using 100% cotton by St Cuthberts Mill, with each sheet buffered with calcium carbonate to help defend finished prints from discolouration caused by acids present in pollution. It is available in eight highly lightfast colours that reach a minimum of 7 on the Blue Wool Scale, including a stunning deep black sheet.

The surface has a gentle texture, plus it has a soft and good-tempered nature, as well as being a strong and stable enough sheet for ensuring excellent printing. It remains flat after printing and offers durability and long life to finished editions of work.

For authenticity, every sheet has two watermarks bearing the Somerset name and also four beautiful deckle edges. Somerset is an elegant and hardworking printmaking paper perfect for limited edition prints.

Regarded by experienced printmakers as the king of printmaking papers.
Somerset Archival Pastel Paper
Somerset Pastel is a gratifying substantial pastel paper as it comes in a heavy 250g/m² weight, which is ideal for artists who dislike flimsy paper. Available in a range of colours including black, newsprint grey and cream. Somerset Pastel can be underpainted with watercolour or thin acrylic.

Pastel artists have commented they like the natural texture of Somerset Pastel because they don't have to battle with the dominant lines on other pastel papers. The paper is also highly lightfast so artists can rest assured if they choose to leave part of the paper showing.

As with all St Cuthberts Mill's paper, you can be guaranteed that Somerset Pastel will have the same consistent high quality as its watercolour and printmaking papers. Somerset Pastel is made with 100% cotton, internally sized and buffered to protect the paper from attack by acids present in the atmosphere from pollution.

Somerset Pastel is a soft yet strong pastel paper suitable for professional artists. This range of paper is part of the Somerset printmaking range.
Somerset Enhanced | inveresk.co.uk
Somerset Enhanced (also know as Somerset Photo Enhanced in the US) is a beautiful artist paper designed for inkjet printing. The paper has an invisible coating on one side which allows the creation of stunning prints with a wide colour gamut.

Made from 100% cotton fibres using a traditional mould machine, this is an authentic artist paper capable of producing outstanding results with a good inkjet printer. The paper is made using quality materials to give an archival sheet and buffered with calcium carbonate to help protect prints against attack by atmospheric pollutants.

Somerset Enhanced is ideal for fine art reproduction and fine art photography. Make prints look like original piece of art by using this authentic artist paper.
Bockingford Inkjet | inveresk.co.uk
Bockingford Inkjet is the answer for artists who wish to create their own limited edition prints. Fantastic prints can be reproduced to look like the original, when using a good inkjet printer.

Artists familiar with the original Bockingford watercolour paper will recognise the same beautiful surface on Bockingford Inkjet. It is made in the same time-honoured fashion as Bockingford watercolour paper using a traditional mould machine.

Unlike other artist inkjet papers, Bockingford Inkjet has an ink receptive coating on both sides of the sheet, allowing limited edition books and portfolios to be created.
St Cuthberts Mill Award | inveresk.co.uk
As part of Inveresk PLC's drive to support the arts, St Cuthberts Mill offers a highly prized award to art societies across the world. The award is usually chosen by the official judge appointed by the art society, and the prize consists of high quality artist paper made by St Cuthberts Mill.

Every year thousands of pounds worth of paper is given back to the art community through this programme.
Speciality Papers from St Cuthberts Mill - Internet shop
St Cuthberts Mill are manufacturers of speciality papers and boards. Our brands are some of the most used and trusted in their fields.

Buy on-line watercolour papers and fine art inkjet papers from their internet shop - This site is primarily for countries where St Cuthberts Mill has no or limited distribution of its products. Otherwise it lists the main distributors within each country.

Saunders Waterford

From the Inveresk Group website
Saunders Waterford is an exquisite English watercolour paper, traditionally made on a cylinder mould machine. This is the superior quality paper made at St Cuthberts Mill and comes with the Royal Watercolour Society's endorsement. Made using 100% cotton, the highest quality papermaking material, to archival standards. Each sheet is buffered with calcium carbonate to help defend finished pieces of work from discolouration caused by acids present in pollution.

The paper has a creamy white colour and its attractive surface is created using natural woollen felts that give it a distinctive random texture. The surface is coated in gelatine making it strong and resilient to scrubbing and other rough treatments without the surface tearing.

Inveresk - Papers That Make The Difference
Saunders Waterford is an exquisite English watercolour paper, traditionally made on ... Saunders Waterford is a high quality professional watercolour paper. ...
handprint : watercolor papers
Saunders Waterford is the brand manufactured by St. Cuthberts Mill, located in the Axe Valley in Somerset; site of the earliest papermaking mills in England. Current operations combine traditional techniques with computerized mechanization to produce a consistent
R. K. Burt UK - Fine Art Papers - Saunders Waterford
UK based suppliers of fine art papers, offering a range of products for different artistic media and printing.
Heaton Cooper Studio - Art Materials - Watercolour paper stocklist
Hot Pressed, Saunders Waterford, 140lb, 300gsm, Warm white, Mould Made 100% cotton ... NOT, Saunders Waterford, 200lb, 425gsm, White, Mould Made 100% cotton ...
Saunders Waterford - BLICK art materials
Professionals love this paper's superb performance and resistance to distortion. Mouldmade of 100% cotton, Saunders Waterford is gelatin sized. Neutral pH.
Saunders Waterford Specification Sheet | inveresk.co.uk
Saunders Waterford is a professional watercolour paper made from 100% cotton, to give a sheet made with one of the purest forms of cellulose. Mould made using traditional methods this is a high grade watercolour paper that is suitable for a variety of techniques (acrylic, gouache, pastel, pen & ink, pencil, charcoal etc). It is an archival grade paper buffered with calcium carbonate to combat acid attack finished paintings may encounter from air pollution.
*** NEW Product *** | Inveresk
The new addition is a 'High White' colour which complements the original range of 'White' papers with a new whiter shade that's much brighter.

St Cuthberts Mill made the new 'High White' after requests from professional artists who were searching for a whiter shade of watercolour paper, but without compromising on quality that only a professional grade watercolour paper like Saunders Waterford can offer. The base colour of the paper shows through the transparent washes of watercolour, and the original 'White' shade of Saunders Waterford could affect the paints. With the new 'High White' shade the paints pigments will appear more vivid, and with more sparkle, giving the whole painting a fresher look.

A whiter sheet will make finished paintings more contemporary looking, as artists have commented that they felt the original white colour created a more antique look to their finished compositions.
Making a Mark: Saunders Waterford Hot Press - pros and cons for coloured pencils
Not all professional watercolour Hot Press papers behave in the same way.

I've been using what I think is Saunders Waterford Hot Press for coloured pencil drawings in my Drawing a Head class at the Princes Drawing School this term. It's a completely different experience from drawing on any other sort of paper and I thought I'd provide some feedback about what it's like.
handprint : watercolor papers - Saunders Waterford
A review of the Saunders Waterford papers which are the premium quality watercolor papers made by St. Cuthberts.

Stonehenge

Originally created as a printmaking paper, it now also finds favour with artists using pencil and/or coloured pencils.

From the Legion paper website:
Stonehenge is our most popular traditional fine art & drawing paper, with a flawless vellum surface. Stonehenge fine art papers are 100% cotton, acid-free buffered with calcium carbonate to help protect artwork from contaminated environments.

Created over 30 years ago, Stonehenge was originally created for a variety of printmaking techniques including etching and silkscreen. Over the decades it has become one of the finest papers for pastel, pencil, charcoal, acrylics and watercolor.

Legion Paper - Fine Art Paper - By Brand - Stonehenge
Legion: Stonehenge is the #1 American-made fine art paper. When asked why artists choose Stonehenge they mention the smooth surface, 100% cotton quality, deckle edge, range of colors and most of all its versatility.
Jacksons Art Supplies - Stongehenge paper now supplied in the UK
Stonehenge Paper - 7 colours in stock
Making a Mark reviews......: Roz Stendahl tests Stonehenge Paper
Roz Stendahl (Roz Wound Up) has been testing Stonehenge Paper. This post links to her various blog posts this year on this topic.

Strathmore Artist Papers

From the Strathmore website:
The Strathmore brand name began to appear on our fine art papers in 1899, first with Charcoal and soon after with Bristol. The Strathmore brand quickly became known as one of the highest quality art papers used by many leading artists around the world. Strathmore has kept this reputation as a supplier of fine art paper for over a century.

Strathmore Artist Papers - Bristol and Illustration Board Fine Art Paper
Strathmore Artist Papers - For over 100 years Strathmore Artist Papers has been providing artists with the finest papers on which to create their artwork.

Stratehmore Drawing Pads

Available on Amazon

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Watercolour Papers in Blocks

I find that watercolour papers in blocks very useful when working plein air as they remove the need for a support. Plus you never have to regret you didn't bring enough paper with you!

Heaton Cooper Studio Ltd > Watercolour Papers in Blocks
Art shop with online purchase of art materials and art supplies.

This link demonstrates the the breadth of the range of watercolour papers in blocks - not that you often seem them in art shops!

Twinrocker

Twinrocker is a relatively new paper mill. Founded in 1971 by Howard and Kathryn Clark it has revived hand papermaking in America. On its web site you can see a highly informative video on hand papermaking.

Twinrocker paper is handmade which means it can vary slightly in thickness from sheet to sheet. rather than using weight, the thickness of a sheet is measured with a micrometer to arrive at thousandths of an inch, or .000" which is then converted to a Letter Code.

Twinrocker Handmade Paper
Established by Kathryn and Howard Clark in 1971, Twinrocker was pivotal to the renaissance of hand papermaking in America. Combining their background in Fine Art and Mechanical Engineering, they approached the ancient craft of hand papermaking with a fresh look, forming sheets by hand in the most traditional manner, but also introducing innovative design.
Twinrocker Handmade Paper - about our papers
Twinrocker makes handmade papers from the finest cotton rag, just as paper was made in Europe centuries ago. Twinrocker was the first hand mill to make a wide variety of sizes and shapes, including circular and square sheets.
Twinrocker Handmade Paper - custom papers
When a special project needs a unique paper, we use our years of experience to create the best possible sheet.  The client may specify size, shape, thickness, surface, color, watermarks
Twinrocker Handmade Paper
Retails suppliers of Twinrocker paper
Twinrocker - paper storage supplies
Paper storage supplies
Twinrocker Handmade Paper
Twinrocker is located in Brookston , Indiana , where State Highway #43 and State Highway #18 intersect, about twelve miles north of Lafayette , Indiana. Brookston is about an hour's drive northwest of Indianapolis , or a two hour drive southeast of the Chicago Loop.
handprint : watercolor papers - Twinrocker
A review of Twinrocker watercolour paper

Two Rivers

Two Rivers paper
The largest output at Two Rivers is of the famous TR and DeNimes handmade artists
paper. This is the paper of choice for many of the UK's finest artists.

Two Rivers has a unique random surface texture unlike the mechanically even weave
of most other branded papers.

Whatman Paper

This is a very famous paper in the history of English art

A turning point in the history of papermaking - Wove paper
Wove paper - a breakthrough in the technology of papermaking
The Whatman family in the Eighteenth Century
The Whatmans and Wove Paper
Turkey Mill Maidstone Kent
The history of the Turkey Mill - the original home of Whatman paper. In the eighteenth century it was the largest paper mill in the UK

Drawing and Printmaking Papers

Drawing & Printmaking Papers
Drawing and printmaking papers. Stonehenge printmaking paper, Arches Cover drawing paper. Rives BFK papers and more. Discount prices.
Handmade Printing Paper Catalogue from Griffen Mill
Griffen Mill Handmade Printing Paper for letterpress,screen printing & copperplate engraving.

Rolls of Paper

Legion Fine Art Papers - Pricing and Paper Resource Manual - Rolls
Rolls of paper handled by Legion Paper - with dimensions and recommended list prices
Making a Mark: Stonehenge - two new colours in 10 yard rolls
Legion Paper has introduced a 250Gsm roll in two new colours - cream and natural - however this time it's only ten yards to each roll! This means you can now have a minimum width on the shortest side of 50" and a length as long as you want!

Paper and supports suitable for Pastels

Papers designed for and/or suitable for use with soft pastels

Inveresk Pastel Papers - Somerset Pastel paper
Somerset Pastel is a gratifying substantial pastel paper as it comes in a heavy 250g/m² weight, which is ideal for artists who dislike flimsy paper. Available in a range of colours including black, newsprint grey and cream. Somerset Pastel can be underpainted with watercolour or thin acrylic.
Canson USA - Artist Papers - Mi-Teintes Paper
Manufacturer's description:
Mi-Teintes Sheets: The most famous lightfast pastel paper in the world. In heavy weight with rough texture, these 60% cotton papers come in fifty pulp-dyed colors that go all the way through. Acid free and archival, they are also excellent for pencil, scrapbooking and papercraft.
Support System y Maggie Price
A Pastel Journal Special report - on supports for pastels - available as a pdf file
Pastelmat
PASTELMAT® is a premium card surface (360gsm / 170lb) specially developed for pastelists. Its unique velvety surface, made from a fine coating of cellulose fibers, has the ability to grab and hold multiple layers of even the softest pastels. It significantly reduces the need for fixative and is gentle on both fingers and blending tools. It is acid free and lightfast.
Making a Mark reviews......: Product Review : Clairefontaine Pastelmat
Gayle Mason (Fur in the Paint) has done a very nice post about a Comparison of Pastelmat, Pastelbord and Fisher 400 paper which summarises the relative merits of different supports for coloured pencil work.
Rob's Art Supply Reviews: ClaireFontaine PastelMat
ClaireFontaine PastelMat is a new surface recently introduced to the USA from Europe, where it's been around for a few years. It's archival, acid free, comes in eight beautiful colors and has a deceptively smooth surface. It's a coated pastel card that I found useful with any medium I threw at it -- watercolor, pastels, inked lines, oil pastels, pastel pencils, colored pencils, anything. It's quite heavy and stands up well to wet techniques. This has become one of my top three favorite sanded or coated papers -- the one I could use with anything.

Abrasive Supports

suitable for pastels and coloured pencils

I use an abrasive support for pastels because I find it invariably gives me much greater control over my soft pastel sticks. Adhesion is also very much better than when pastel is used on paper. Abrasive supports vary as to how much pigment can be laid down before the tooth is 'full' - some have such a good grip they positively eat soft pastel sticks.

The way I use my coloured pencils on abrasive supports is very similar to the way I use pastels. The only real difference seems to be the amount of dust produced and how fast the pencils get eaten!

Overall abrasive boards and papers provide good quality support for various ways of working. Whether an artist's approach is realism or impressionism, whether they underpaint using water or solvents or not, the range of supports on offer can cater for every preference.

Making a Mark: Abrasive Supports for Pastels & Coloured Pencils #1
# Ampersand Pastelbord
# Art Spectrum Colourfix.
# Ersta Sanded Pastel Paper
Making a Mark: Abrasive Supports for Pastels & Coloured Pencils #2
This post covers four different surface:

Jack Richeson Premium Pastel Surface (new product)
Sennelier La Carte Pastel (Pastel Card) / Rembrandt Pastel Board.
Schminke Sansfix Pastellkarton
Wallis Paper
Making a Mark: Ampersand Pastelbord
Introduction to Pastelbord
Ampersand Art Supply - Pastelbord
Pastelbord is a clay-coated hardboard panel designed for pastels that is suitable for paints of all types, especially acrylics. The granular marble dust finish holds many more layers of pastels than traditional pastel papers and can be reworked wet or dry without affecting the integrity of the surface......the rigid 1/8" hardboard backing makes this an ideal panel for on-location work and standard sizes fit in pochade boxes and carriers easily. pastelbord is acid-free and non-yellowing, making it a truly permanent museum quality surface. Choose from Gray, Green, Sand and White"
Ampersand Pastelbord - WetCanvas!
Ampersand Pastelbord Soft Pastel Talk
- this thread discusses problems with Pastelbord surface defects
Kitty Wallis Pastel paper
Wallis paper is a sanded paper available in two archival standard versions - 'professional' and 'museum'. Kitty Wallis's forum on Wet Canvas. Get a free sample and find out what you can and cannot do with this paper - available from all major art suppliers in the USA. See next link for UK supplier
Jackie Simmonds - UK Supplier of Pastel Paper
Jackie Simmonds works closely with Kitty Wallis to supply Wallis paper in the UK. This link provides good quality information about Wallis paper.
Art Spectrum - Colourfix
Art Spectrum Colourfix Primer is a fine tooth, quick drying acrylic primer which bonds agressively to practically any clean, dry surface - all types of papers (300 gsm or heavier recommended), canvas, card, ply, plastic, glass, timber, ceramic and metal. Art Spectrum Colourfix Primer can be applied with brushes, sponges, rollers etc. straight from the pot. 20 colours are available, including Natural (Clear)*. All colours can be intermixed, or tinted with Art Spectrum Inks or Gouache, to create new shades.
West Design Products - Colourfix Plein Air Boards (range of colours)
UK supplier
Colourfix Plein Air painting boards are made by coating an archival quality whiteboard with lightfast Art Spectrum colourfix primer providing a range of coloured backgrounds suitable for practically all wet and dry art media. Painting Boards are all acid free.
West Design Products - Colourfix paper
UK supplier of Art Spectrum Colourfix paper

Art Spectrum Colourfix Papers are sheets of 300gsm acid-free watercolour paper professionally screened with Art Spectrum Pastel Primer. The natural toothy surface is ideal for pastels, pencil or charcoal as it will hold multiple overlays of colour without the need to fix between layers. The absence of fixative will allow the velvet bloom and vibrant colour of pastel to be preserved.
UART: Premium Sanded Pastel Paper
UART Pastel paper is the choice of many professional pastel, colored pencil, charcoal and water color artists. Its texture is ideal for pastel drawings where consistency is demanded.

UART is beige in color as well as PH Neutral and Acid Free. It is available in grades 400 and 500 for a moderate bite, and grade 600 and 800 for a super fine pastel application.

UART sanded pastel paper is available in the following sizes:
Sheets 9 x 12, 12 x 18, 18 x 24; 21 x 27, 24 x 36, 27 x 40
Rolls 56" x 10 yards; 56" x 25 yards; 56" x 50 yards

It will accept multiple applications of soft and hard pastels, as well as watercolor and oil washes. Good results have also been achieved using other mediums.
The Pastel Pointers Blog - On the Surface (UART paper)
Views on working with different grades of UART paper
Fisher400 paper
Fisher 400 - full and hald sheets available
Nicole Caulfield Art Journal: Portrait on Fisher 400 Paper
a review about working on Fisher 400 paper
Grafix Dura-Lar

Grafix Dura-Lar 

Drafting Film and Archival Polyester Film

Mylar® PET polyester film - Mylar is DuPont's tradename for a complete line of strong, durable polyester films with many applications.

Mylar refers to polyester film, which Grafix offers under the tradename Dura-Lar.

Dura-Lar combines the best features of Mylar® and acetate. It is always consistent in color and overall clarity, and won't discolor with age. Dura-Lar is archival quality, safe for overlaying artwork, and it lays flat. It will remain dimensionally stable for as long as you need.

Dura-Lar Matte - Both sides have a matte surface which accepts ink without feathering, as well as pencils and other drawing media. The surface is erasable. Its thickness is .005" (.127 mm), medium weight.

Polydraw is a matt surface polyester drafting film which is similar to tracing paper but with an exceptional degree of dimensional stability. This means it which will not stretch under normal conditions, is virtually untearable and has archival properties ie will not yellow or age. It is a coated opaque film which readily accepts pencil, coloured pebcil, indian ink and transfer lettering which can be ocrrected by plastic eraser or a soft sponge without distorting the film. It's available in 75micron double matt.

Artcel Triacetate is a crystal clear film for studio and artist work with aqueous media ie watercolour & gouache.

Diacell is a high-quality clear diacetate. This untreated base diacetate is ideal for use with specialised markers, film colours, chinagraph and wax type drawing aids. Recommended for overhead projection work, animation or even as a protective covering.

Grafix Dura-Lar®
Grafix Dura-Lar® is the Acetate alternative. This polyester film combines the best features of Mylar® and Acetate to provide a highly versatile film.

Product Features:
* Will not tear, absorb moisture or discolor with age
* Heat resistant
* Dimensionally stable
* Lays flat
* Acid free and archival

Ideally suited for use as a protective overlay, for layouts and color separations, die cutting, window applications and as a surface for mixed media artwork.

Grafix Dura-Lar is offered in a range of thicknesses from .001" to .020" and finishes including: clear with or without an adhesive backing, matte, wet media and metallic gold or silver with or without an adhesive backing. Available in sheets, rolls and pads.
Artists Network - Paintable Acetate (Dura-Lar)
Paintable Acetate - Ann Pember comments on using watercolour with an archival acetate called Dura-Lar
Dura-Lar Matte - BLICK art materials
Dura-Lar is the acetate alternative. It combines the best features of Mylar® and acetate, and offers a variety of products so that you can purchase the film that suits your needs precisely. It is always consistent in color and overall clarity, and won't discolor with age. Dura-Lar is archival quality, safe for overlaying artwork, and it lays flat. It will remain dimensionally stable for as long as you need.
FUR IN THE PAINT: Art Materials - Part 1
Although I have tried out many supports over the past few years I return to the same favourites:-
Arches Hot Press Watercolour paper or Mellotex for graphite
Polydraw Drafting Film for coloured pencil, or mixed media including acrylic
Ampersand Pastelbord for coloured pencil including Neocolor ll

This post is about the Polydraw Drafting Film
DuPont Teijin Films - USA - Image Printing & Recording Media
DuPont Teijin Films is the world?s leading differentiated producer of PET and PEN polyester films
DuPont Teijin Films Europe - Image Printing & Recording Media
DuPont Teijin Films is the world's leading differentiated producer of PET and PEN polyester films

Conservation and Restoration Papers

For people with archival concerns

Legion Paper - Fine Art Paper - By Type - Conservation Papers
Conservation papers come in many forms, for many purposes
Restoration Papers
Restoration and repair papers at Artpaper.com including Mulberry, Hosho, and archival glues.
The Japanese Paper Place - Conservation Papers
Our comprehensive selection of fine papers for conservators includes many variations of pure Japanese kozo, gampi and mitsumata papers, both hand and machine made, in a wide range of weight and tone.
Caring For Works of Art on Paper
World Printmakers, etchings, engravings and other art prints from round the world

Although works of art on paper such as prints, drawings, and watercolors are inherently fragile, they can be easily and effectively protected from damage and deterioration. Preservation measures include:

? proper storage and handling, including framing
? protection from light
? protection from unsafe temperature and relative humidity conditions
? protection from pollutants and airborne particulates.
Griffen Mill Handmade Paper New Website!
Griffen Mill antique toned handmade paper for bookbinding & paper conservation,
restoration & repair work, historical recreations & fine printing.

Japanese papers

Legion Paper - Fine Art Paper - By Type - Japanese Papers
For just under 1500 years, Japan has been producing handmade paper in a volume and variety that is second to none
Japanese Papermaking
Article by by Coral Jensen, previous owner of True Blue Art Supply and Artpaper Inc
The Japanese Paper Place - Retail and Wholesale Supplier of Fine Japanese Papers
The Japanese Paper Place stocks and distributes, in wholesale and retail, over 2,000 different Japanese papers around the world. From Chiyogami (Yuzen) to origami and shoji paper, and from inexpensive machine-made papers, cardstocks and tissues to exquisite handmade papers with a 1300-year history,
The Japanese Paper Place - Tools
We are pleased to offer this selection of Japanese tools for bookbinders, conservators and artists.
About Paper Connection International
Founded in 1995 by Lauren Pearlman, from the start Paper Connection International has been the exclusive American supplier of papers from Japan's Kochi Prefecture Handmade Paper Co-op Union. The union is made up of approximately 45 paper mills producing hundreds of different styles, colors and materials of beautifully crafted paper.

In 1997, Paper Connection expanded its product line to include even more exotic papers from India, Nepal, Latin America, and later China and Korea. Paper Connection is continually searching for new items to add to an already extensive collection of paper products.
Ludlow Art Society: INFORMATION SHEET NO.1 : Oriental Handmade Paper by Christine Butler
INFORMATION SHEET NO.1 : Oriental Handmade Paper by Christine Butler
The basic method of production, as recorded in Japan, is fundamentally unchanged from earlier times. It can be summarised as follows.......
Chiyogami, Yuzen Japanese Paper - The Paper Studios
The Paper Studio carries a wide array of Japanese papers including Japanese origami paper. We are fine art shop run by artists who are paper fanatics!

Indian Papers

Legion Paper - Fine Art Paper - By Brand - Indian Papers
Indian papers are some of the strongest papers in the world

Drawing Cartridge Papers

Lambeth Drawing Cartridge
This is a British made Fourdrinier paper in a white shade, acid free. It is also available in sketchbook form.
(Supplied by john Purcell Paper)

Paper suitable for Oil Paint

Heaton Cooper Studio Ltd > Canson Figueras Paper Pad for oil and acrylic
Heaton Cooper ART MATERIALS - Papers and Grounds - Oil & Acrylic Grounds

Canson Figueras Paper Pad for oil and acrylic

A linen textured acid free paper, primed for oil or acrylic. The surface is double coated for optimum absorption of paints. The pads are inter-leaved with protective cover sheets and glued on one edge 290gsm/135lbs 10 sheets per pad

Watercolour sketchbooks

Heaton Cooper Studio Ltd > Royal Watercolour Society Hardback Pads
Product description: Ring-bound Pads of RWS paper, cotton and linen fibre, acid free. These pads are tastefully made, with substantial hard covers in cloth, embossed with the RWS logo.

Format: Landscape
Size: 10 x 15cm up to 25 x 35cm
Surface: NOT, Rough, Hot pressed
Weight: 300gsm/140lbs
Sheets per pad: 20
Heaton Cooper Studio Ltd > Arches Aquarelle 100% cotton Pads
100% cotton fibre, acid free spiral pads of the famous Arches paper made by Arjomari of France.
Format: Landscape
Size: 19 x 26cm up to 23 x 31cm
Surface: NOT, Rough
Weight: 300gsm/140lbs
Sheets per pad: 14
Winsor & Newton - Luxury water colour sketch book
Product description:
- a luxury water colour pad with a durable hard back cover and fine detail gold embossing.
- made from a superior Cold Pressed/NOT surface mould-made paper which provides the artist with a stable and durable surface to paint onto. The Woodfree fibres used in manufacture ensure the paper is 100% acid free, increasing the longevity of your paintings.
- 15 sheets of 425gsm/200lb.

Note woodfree paper is still woodpulp paper with the lignin removed. It's not the same as the best watercolour paper which is made from cotton and/or linen

Watercolour sketchbooks - product reviews

Making a Mark reviews......: Product Feedback: Winsor & Newton sketchbooks
If you're ever dissatisfied with a sketchbook it's always worthwhile letting the manufacturer know exactly what you think, especially if you are a watercolourist. A lot of people who sketch don't only use light watercolour washes. A number want to produce proper watercolours and will always need a paper that will cope with this.

Check out out what happened to Sue Smith (Sue's Sketch Blog) - see Sketchbooks - when she tried to buy a Winsor & Newton sketchbook which had paper heavy enough for proper watercolour washes and what happened next.

Questions and Answers about Sketchbooks

Tips for how to keep a sketchbook

Links to comments and evaluations of different types of sketchbook. You can find links to completed sketchbooks in my Drawing and Sketching lens.

Making a Mark: Readers' Questions: Should I sketch back to back in my sketchbook?
A commentary on sketchbooks and the black hardback Daler Rowney and the Moleskine
Making a Mark: Which sketchbook?
I'll show you mine if you show me yours - sketchbooks that is!
Product Review: Watercolor Journals Aren't All Alike - QuinnCreative
a review of watercolour sticks used in different sketchbooks

Drawing Pads and Sketchbooks

Great Art - Drawing Pads
Arches Drawing & Sketching Pad, Canson Sketching Paper, Gerstaecker Drawing Pad
Seawhite - Art & Design Materials, Sketchbooks
ISO 9001 Certified Art & Design Products
Seawhite: Concertina Sketchbook
CONCERTINA SKETCHBOOK
Fantastic for display, this versatile book has no fewer than 70 possible working surfaces - each page is 2 sheets joined to give stability.
Seawhite: hardbacked sketchbooks
market leading sewn sketchbooks with traditional black cloth finish.
Seawhite all-media 140gsm cartridge ? acid-free ? sized for extra wet strength
Sketchbooks : Pocket Sketchbooks - Shepherds Bookbinders Ltd
Pocket Sketchbooks - the seven senses of paper according to Fabriano.
Sketchbooks : Watercolour, Pastel, Ink Books - Shepherds Bookbinders Ltd
variety of papers

SUPPLIES: Moleskine Sketchbooks

Available on Amazon

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SUPPLIES: Sketchbooks

Available on Amazon

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SUPPLIES: Seth Cole Drawing Pads

Available on Amazon

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Views about works on paper

Robert Genn clickback - Works on paper
While artistically sensitive folks may treasure paper art because of its difficulty and sensitivity, the general public often doesn't. Fluctuating with the times, public devaluation has come about for several reasons. With all the technology around these days, paper art doesn't always look handmade. Recently, the flooding of the market with inexpensive photo-lithos, photocopies and giclees has cast a negative light on all things paper. The downward pull has been felt by all. Even the repro-makers have fought the trend by printing on canvas. Then there's the business of getting the artist or others to put a few juicy strokes here and there to make a print more like an "original." When mild deceit enters, mild distrust arises.

Archival Storage

Ways of keeping paper and non-canvas supports protected from deterioration

Blick Metal Edge Archival Clamshell Boxes - BLICK art materials
Archival-quality, extra durable boxes. Metal edge fasteners at the corners help ensure that these boxes will stand the test of time. The convenient one-piece clamshell design is ideal for flat storage.

Blogging About Paper

If you've got a blog post which you think might be a useful addition to this lens then leave a comment in the Guestbook.

Pastel: Paper Chase
Casey Klahn writing for pastel artists

Brought from China to the Middle East around the start of the second millennium, paper is one of the pillars of the advancement of civilization. We are concerned here with the advancement of our art, so without further adieu, my input on pastel paper tricks.....
Paper News
Blogging about Paper
Jackson's Art Blog » Blog Archive » Watercolour Paper Sizes
How to convert watercolour paper from imperial to metric sizes

Making A Mark Reviews......

a consumer's guide to quality and value in art books, art supplies and services to artists

Read reviews about art books, art supplies and other products and services used by artists.

This blog highlights:
- book reviews (art instruction and art history)
- reviews of art media, art materials and art equipment
- reviews of places where you buy (art shops, online art suppliers and art bookshops)
- reviews of other products or services used by artists
- summaries of good quality and relevant reviews by other practising artists

My aim is to try and identify good quality and good value.

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Making A Mark - My Blog

Artist and author Katherine Tyrrell draws and writes about art for artists and art lovers.

Topics include: artists, art exhibitions, art blogs; art history; art techniques and tips; art business and marketing; art economy and making a mark with pastels, coloured pencils and pen and ink.

I always state the paper or support that I use to produce artwork. Look for it under each image.

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  • robinpedrero May 22, 2012 @ 6:57 am | delete
    wonderful Katherine! As always you exceed in being giving us hte ultimate resources! TY!
  • artyfax Feb 26, 2012 @ 4:37 am | delete
    Wow, such a detailed and informative lens. I though i knew a little about paper but this proves me so wrong. I think I will be doing a little experimenting in the near future. THanks for your work in putting this artists' resource together. Blessed
  • curious0927 Feb 6, 2012 @ 2:55 pm | delete
    A treasure trove of information! You have covered every question I could possible have. Makes choosing the right materials so much easier when listed like this. Thank you and I will be back! Bookmarked and Blessed!
  • creativeinc Oct 11, 2011 @ 5:17 am | delete
    I have a friend who is making handmade greeting cards and she should read this lens! We have tried making paper for her but sometimes the results are not so ideal. Very informative lens. Thanks
  • Ericndrsn Mar 3, 2011 @ 11:35 pm | delete
    useful info about paper & all... Thanks
  • Chinajoy Feb 6, 2011 @ 9:38 pm | delete
    Great lens. Paper is one of the problems I have here in China. It is very difficult to find a good, quality paper for drawings. Lensrolling to my Drawing Toolbox lens.
  • L Aug 18, 2010 @ 1:59 am | delete
    Does anyone out there know of a distributor in the US for Maidstone Printmaking paper?Apparently it's great for silkscreen AND intaglio..
  • makingamark Apr 12, 2009 @ 7:32 pm | delete
    Lance - check out the Somerset printmaking paper motif here http://www.inveresk.co.uk/content/traditional-printmaking-papers. It's not a trident but maybe close to what you're seeing?
  • lance in canada Apr 12, 2009 @ 7:24 pm | delete
    I am having a difficult time trying to identify the maker of printmaking paper I purchased and have been using for watercolour. It is the best paper I've ever EVER used, but instead of having a name embossed as its watermark, there is only a symbol which looks something like a stylized Trident (ala Neptune). Instead of being in the corner, this mark is found in the middle of the bottom edge.

    Does anyone know what papermaker such a mark represents?
    I would be so very grateful to have this mystery solved!
  • annanelson Feb 14, 2009 @ 5:16 am | delete
    Very insightful and full of great links. Thank you for all the resources. View my lense if you have the time.
  • Casey Mar 14, 2008 @ 7:59 am | delete
    Thanks for the mention. Again, this lens is an indispensable resource!
  • makingamark Mar 12, 2008 @ 4:15 am | delete
    Laura - good question!

    If you work very big then the best thing to do is probably buy a roll of paper. Most manufacturers make rolls for more popular brands and any good art store should be able to either supply a roll or order one for you. Some of the good online suppliers also provide for you to be able to order rolls.

    Beware - rolls of paper tend to be expensive - but of course they also go on forever - so make sure it's a paper you like first!
  • laura Mar 10, 2008 @ 7:54 pm | delete
    Large paper ! some of us work really big and would love a link to any and all quality fine art archival papers available for drawing

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