In watercolour, the paper does half the work. The same paint can look muddy on one sheet and glowing on another. Here is what to look for.
Weight
Paper weight is shown in gsm or lb. At 300 gsm (140 lb), the paper stays fairly flat even with wet washes. Lighter paper buckles, so tape it down on a board before you start.
Cotton or cellulose
100% cotton paper soaks up water evenly, lets you lift and layer colour, and forgives mistakes. Cellulose (wood pulp) paper costs less and is fine for practice, but washes dry faster and can leave streaks.
Surface
- Hot-pressed is smooth. Best for fine detail and plant studies.
- Cold-pressed has a gentle texture. A good all-rounder for most people.
- Rough has a strong texture that sparkles in loose landscapes.
Pads, blocks and sheets
Pads are handy for sketching. Blocks are glued on all four sides, so the paper can't buckle while you paint. Large sheets are the best value if you cut them yourself.
Painting in hot, dry weather
Heat and dry air make washes dry very quickly. Work in smaller areas, keep a small spray bottle nearby, and try wetting the paper before you paint. Cotton paper stays workable for longer, which helps a lot in summer.
Quick pick: for plant studies, choose 300 gsm hot-pressed cotton. For daily practice, a cold-pressed cellulose pad is perfectly fine.