Watercolor Papers

Papers can vary widely in their attributes. Thicker types are less prone to buckling when coated with waterborne media. Stretching the paper before coating may help reduce buckling.

For the best results, apply your chosen medium as recommended by the paper manufacturer.

A ground or barrier coating is not required when working on paper with acrylics, watercolors, or dry media.

When painting with an acrylic paint, medium, gesso, or ground, two or more initial coats of Gloss Medium can be applied to reduce Support Induced Discoloration (SID).

When painting with oils, an application of three or more coats of acrylic Gesso is recommended to block oil penetration.

Try our QoR Watercolor Grounds for unique surface qualities that emulate particular aspects of watercolor paper. Alternatively, many our Gesso & Grounds, Gels & Pastes, and Fluid Mediums can be applied to alter the absorbency, durability, or texture of the paper.

For dry media like PanPastel, we recommend applying a textured ground or paste for improved tooth.

Article: Paper Warping when Painting with Acrylics

Article: Painting with Oils on Paper

Article: Paint and Paper: Making a Watercolor