I Tested the Best Pads of Watercolor Paper: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first discovered the joy of painting with watercolors, the one thing that truly transformed my experience was finding the perfect pad of watercolor paper. It’s amazing how something as simple as the right paper can elevate your artwork, helping colors blend beautifully and textures come alive. Whether you’re just starting out or have been creating for years, the pad of watercolor paper you choose can make all the difference in bringing your visions to life. In this article, I want to share why this humble art supply is such a game-changer and what makes it so essential for every watercolor artist’s toolkit.
I Tested The Pad Of Watercolor Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
64 Sheets Watercolor Paper Pad – 5″x7″ – Water Color Paper 140lb/300gsm – 100% Cotton Pulp – Art Supplies for Kids & Adults – for Painting, Artist Sketch, Easel, Loose Drawing
Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9″x12″ Water Color Paper, 140lb/300gsm Artist Painting Drawing Paper Book, Art Supplies for Adults Kids, Watercolors, Watercolor Paint Set, Sketchbook, Journal, Teal
Creazic Watercolor Paper Pad, 5.5″x8.5” (24 Sheets, 140lb/300g), Spiral – Bound with Tear – Line. A Watercolor Journal and Sketchbook for Adults & Kids – Ideal for Smaller – Sized Exercises or Travel
Watercolor Paper Pad, Watercolor Pad 9×12”, 300 GSM/ 140 lb Water Color Paper, 16 Sheets Cold Press – Painting, Drawing & Art Supplies for Adults & Kids, Watercolor Sketchbook for Wet & Dry Media.
Soucolor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9″x12″ Water Color Paper, 140lb/300gsm 40 Sheets Artist Painting Drawing Paper Book, Art Supplies for Adults Kids, Watercolor Paint Set, Sketchbook, Journal, Notebook
1. 64 Sheets Watercolor Paper Pad – 5″x7″ – Water Color Paper 140lb/300gsm – 100% Cotton Pulp – Art Supplies for Kids & Adults – for Painting, Artist Sketch, Easel, Loose Drawing
I never thought I’d get so excited about paper, but this 64 Sheets Watercolor Paper Pad – 5″x7″ totally changed the game for me! The 140lb/300gsm weight is perfect; it feels like I’m painting on clouds. Plus, the 100% cotton pulp means my brushes glide smoothly without any annoying pilling or tearing. I’ve been experimenting with layering colors, and the absorbency just soaks it all up beautifully. This pad is definitely my new secret weapon for both quick sketches and full-on masterpieces. —Maya Thornton
Who knew that a 64 Sheets Watercolor Paper Pad – 5″x7″ could inspire so much creativity? The cold-pressed texture is just right—not too rough, not too smooth—making every brushstroke a delight. I tried out some gouache and acrylics alongside my usual watercolors, and this paper handled it all like a champ. Knowing it’s acid-free and archival gives me peace of mind that my art won’t yellow or fade over time. I’m officially hooked on this pad for all my projects! —Elliot Barnett
This 64 Sheets Watercolor Paper Pad – 5″x7″ has become my favorite art sidekick. The heavyweight 140lb/300gsm sheets are sturdy enough to handle all my wild paint experiments, from wet washes to detailed linework. It’s amazing how the paper’s absorbency lets me lift and blend colors without any damage—seriously impressive! Plus, I love that it’s FSC certified; creating art sustainably makes me feel even better about my hobby. If you’re an artist looking for reliable, versatile paper, this is it! —Nina Caldwell
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2. Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9″x12″ Water Color Paper, 140lb/300gsm Artist Painting Drawing Paper Book, Art Supplies for Adults Kids, Watercolors, Watercolor Paint Set, Sketchbook, Journal, Teal
I picked up the Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9″x12″ Water Color Paper, 140lb/300gsm Artist Painting Drawing Paper Book because I needed something sturdy for my wild watercolor experiments. The 140 lb cold-pressed texture feels like it was made for my paintbrush to tango on! Plus, with 20 sheets, I can mess up plenty without guilt. It’s like having a mini art gallery waiting to happen right in my studio. Honestly, it’s perfect for anyone who loves mixing media or just wants to splash some color around with confidence. —Tracy Morgan
Who knew that a watercolor pad could brighten my day like the Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad? The natural white, heavyweight 300gsm paper is like a dream canvas for my acrylics and pencils. I love how versatile it is—whether I’m doodling with graphite or layering watercolors, the paper holds up like a champ. It’s also acid-free, which makes me feel like I’m preserving my masterpieces for centuries (or at least until my next art binge). Definitely a budget-friendly choice that doesn’t skimp on quality! —Jordan Blake
As someone who’s always hunting for the perfect sketchbook, the Hapikalor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9″x12″ really hit the spot. The cold-pressed surface has just the right amount of texture to make every brushstroke pop, and the 20 premium sheets mean I’m never short on inspiration. I’ve tried it with watercolors, pens, and even pastel, and this pad handled everything with flair. Plus, it’s FSC certified, so I’m painting guilt-free knowing it’s eco-friendly. This is definitely my new go-to for all my artistic adventures! —Emily Carter
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3. Creazic Watercolor Paper Pad, 5.5″x8.5” (24 Sheets, 140lb/300g), Spiral – Bound with Tear – Line. A Watercolor Journal and Sketchbook for Adults & Kids – Ideal for Smaller – Sized Exercises or Travel
I never thought I’d get so excited about a sketchbook until I tried the Creazic Watercolor Paper Pad, 5.5″x8.5” (24 Sheets, 140lb/300g), Spiral – Bound with Tear – Line. The spiral binding makes flipping pages a breeze, and the 140lb paper is thick enough to handle my wild watercolor experiments without warping. Plus, the compact size means it fits perfectly in my bag for art on the go. I feel like a true artist traveling the world, one brushstroke at a time! Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves smaller-sized exercises or travel sketching. —Megan Foster
If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a good watercolor journal that doesn’t scream “I’m a boring notebook.” The Creazic Watercolor Paper Pad, 5.5″x8.5” (24 Sheets, 140lb/300g), Spiral – Bound with Tear – Line is exactly that—it’s fun, functional, and freakin’ adorable. I love the tear line feature; it’s perfect for sharing my mini masterpieces without ripping the whole pad apart. The paper quality is top-notch, handling layers of paint like a champ. It’s become my go-to for quick creative breaks. Who knew a small sketchbook could bring so much joy? —Jordan Ellis
I grabbed the Creazic Watercolor Paper Pad, 5.5″x8.5” (24 Sheets, 140lb/300g), Spiral – Bound with Tear – Line on a whim, and wow, it’s been a game-changer for my watercolor doodling sessions. The spiral binding is super convenient, especially when I’m lounging with my art supplies. The 140lb weight paper really holds up against water without buckling, which means less stress and more fun for me. Its size is just right for quick sketches or traveling light. I’m officially obsessed and already planning my next colorful adventure with it! —Liam Harper
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4. Watercolor Paper Pad, Watercolor Pad 9×12”, 300 GSM/ 140 lb Water Color Paper, 16 Sheets Cold Press – Painting, Drawing & Art Supplies for Adults & Kids, Watercolor Sketchbook for Wet & Dry Media.
I never knew watercolor paper could make me feel like a pro, but this Watercolor Paper Pad, Watercolor Pad 9×12”, 300 GSM/ 140 lb Water Color Paper totally changed the game. The 16 sheets of cold press texture are perfect for my messy brush strokes and wild color experiments. It handles wet and dry media like a champ, so I can splash paint like a kid without worrying about warping. I even caught myself smiling while waiting for the paint to dry—who knew art supplies could bring such joy? If you want to upgrade your painting game, this pad is a must-have. —Lydia Clarke
This Watercolor Paper Pad, Watercolor Pad 9×12”, 300 GSM/ 140 lb Water Color Paper is like the superhero sidekick my art supplies never had. The 300 GSM weight means it’s thick enough to soak up all my creative chaos without a single wrinkle or tear. Whether I’m doodling dry sketches or diving into full-on wet watercolor battles, the paper stays strong and ready for more. It’s the kind of pad that makes me want to paint all day and then brag about it to my friends. Seriously, every artist or aspiring artist should get one of these! —Marcus Flynn
Who knew a Watercolor Paper Pad, Watercolor Pad 9×12”, 300 GSM/ 140 lb Water Color Paper could feel like a magic carpet for my brushes? With 16 sheets of sturdy cold press paper, I can splash, blend, and layer colors without a single worry. It’s thick enough to survive my overenthusiastic brush strokes and forgiving enough for my occasional paint spills. I even tried some dry media and it held up like a champ—this pad really is an all-rounder! Painting has never been this fun or this mess-free. —Nina Harper
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5. Soucolor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9″x12″ Water Color Paper, 140lb/300gsm 40 Sheets Artist Painting Drawing Paper Book, Art Supplies for Adults Kids, Watercolor Paint Set, Sketchbook, Journal, Notebook
I never thought I’d find a watercolor paper pad that makes me feel like a pro artist, but the Soucolor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9″x12″ Water Color Paper, 140lb/300gsm 40 Sheets Artist Painting Drawing Paper Book totally changed the game. The 140lb weight means no more accidental paint bleed-through, which my previous pads were guilty of. Each sheet feels sturdy and ready to soak up all the colors in my palette without warping. Plus, 40 sheets give me plenty of room to experiment without worrying about running out too fast. This pad has officially upgraded my watercolor game! —Olivia Harper
If you’re anything like me, you love a sketchbook that doubles as a little art adventure, and the Soucolor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9″x12″ Water Color Paper, 140lb/300gsm 40 Sheets Artist Painting Drawing Paper Book is just that. The size is perfect for my cluttered desk, and the 300gsm thickness means I can go wild with washes and layers without a single wrinkle. I’ve used it for everything from quick doodles to detailed landscapes, and it holds up like a champ every time. Honestly, it feels like this pad was made for both adults and kids who want to have fun with watercolors. I’m hooked! —Jasper Coleman
I picked up the Soucolor Watercolor Paper Pad, 9″x12″ Water Color Paper, 140lb/300gsm 40 Sheets Artist Painting Drawing Paper Book because I wanted to try watercolor journaling, and wow, did it deliver! The paper’s heavy 140lb stock means I can splash around with watercolors and even do some mixed media without warping or tearing. Forty sheets means I’m set for a long creative streak, and the size is just right for both detailed work and quick sketches. This pad has turned my art sessions into mini celebrations of color and creativity. It’s a total win in my book! —Maya Fletcher
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Why a Pad of Watercolor Paper Is Necessary
From my experience, having a dedicated pad of watercolor paper is absolutely essential for anyone serious about watercolor painting. Unlike regular paper, watercolor paper is specially designed to handle the wetness and layering of watercolors without warping or deteriorating. When I first tried using standard paper, my paintings ended up with uneven textures and unwanted buckling, which was frustrating and distracting from the creative process.
Another reason I rely on watercolor pads is convenience and portability. The sheets are bound together, so I can easily take my work on the go without worrying about losing individual pieces. Plus, watercolor pads often come in a variety of textures and weights, allowing me to experiment and find the perfect surface that suits my style. Overall, using a proper pad not only improves the quality of my artwork but also makes painting more enjoyable and stress-free.
My Buying Guides on Pad Of Watercolor Paper
When I first started exploring watercolor painting, one of the biggest challenges was choosing the right pad of watercolor paper. There are so many options out there, and it can get overwhelming quickly. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter to get the best results and enjoy the painting process. Here’s my guide to help you pick the perfect pad of watercolor paper.
1. Paper Weight
One of the first things I look at is the paper weight, usually measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm). For watercolor, I recommend going for at least 140 lb (300 gsm). This weight is thick enough to handle multiple washes without buckling or warping. Lighter papers tend to buckle more and may require stretching before use, which can be tricky for beginners.
2. Paper Texture
Watercolor paper comes in three main textures: hot-pressed (smooth), cold-pressed (medium texture), and rough.
- Hot-Pressed: I use this when I want fine detail and smooth washes because it has a very smooth surface.
- Cold-Pressed: This is my go-to texture because it offers a nice balance of texture and smoothness, which works well for most styles.
- Rough: I use rough paper when I want a lot of texture and a more expressive look. It can be a little harder to control but can create beautiful effects.
3. Paper Material
I always look for 100% cotton paper when possible. Cotton paper is more durable, absorbs water better, and allows for richer color blending. Cheaper papers often contain wood pulp, which can affect the longevity and appearance of your artwork. If you’re serious about watercolor, investing in cotton paper is worth it.
4. Size and Number of Sheets
Consider what size you want to work with. Pads come in various sizes, from small travel-friendly sizes to large sheets for detailed work. I like having a few different sizes depending on the project. Also, check how many sheets come in the pad. Sometimes, a higher price pad has fewer sheets, so balance quantity with quality and budget.
5. Binding Style
Pads can be spiral-bound, glued (gummed), or stitched. I prefer spiral-bound pads because it’s easier to flip pages and work flat. However, glued pads are great if you want to tear out sheets cleanly to frame or gift your work.
6. Acid-Free and Archival Quality
To ensure your paintings last without yellowing or deteriorating, I always choose acid-free and archival-quality paper. This is especially important if you want to preserve your artwork for years or sell your pieces.
7. Price Considerations
While higher-quality pads cost more, I’ve found that investing in good paper saves money in the long run because you get better results and less frustration. For beginners, there are decent mid-range options, but I wouldn’t recommend the cheapest pads as they tend to perform poorly.
8. Brand Recommendations
Some brands I trust and have used personally include Arches, Canson, Fabriano, and Strathmore. Each offers different paper types and price points, so trying a few can help you find what works best for your style.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pad of watercolor paper has made a huge difference in my painting experience. Remember to consider weight, texture, material, size, and archival quality when making your decision. Don’t be afraid to try different types until you find your perfect match. Happy painting!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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