The true difference between watercolor paper weights. Which is best?

SUMMARY: Here’s a few things to consider when selecting the best paper weight for your next watercolor painting project.

Once you’ve chosen the grade and size of your watercolor paper, you’ll need to pick a weight. Watercolor paper weight is determined by how much 500 sheets weigh - so, when we say that we’re using a 140-lb paper, 500 sheets of that paper weigh 140 lbs. The heavier the paper, the more water, and pigment it can take. There are several different weights of paper to choose from and each has its own purpose.

Key Takeaways

1. Watercolor paper is available for purchase in three weights.

2. Different weights of watercolor paper can handle different amounts of water.

3. Pricing of watercolor paper will vary based on the weight of the paper; the most cost-effective option is 140 lb paper.

Watercolor paper weight

There are three different watercolor paper weight options: 90 lb, 140 lb, and 300 lb. Remember, the lower the weight, the less water you can apply.

90 lb paper can accept a decent amount of water but will allow for less scrubbing than the other weights. The average watercolor painter uses more water than 90 lb paper can hold, so mindful when buying this weight.

140 lb paper can take more water than 90 lb paper and is the most commonly used weight. In terms of price, it’s a mid-range paper.

300 lb paper is the heaviest option and can take the most water and pigment - it’s similar to cardstock. It’s also the most expensive option, so most people use it only for certain projects. You can prep this type of paper by soaking it in the bathtub or wetting it with a garden hose before using.

Choosing the right weight of watercolor paper

Watercolor paper is made to take on a lot of water, so you don’t always need the heaviest weight. In fact, you want your paper to get very wet - this allows it to relax and open its pores. Choosing the right weight of watercolor paper for your project will largely depend on how much water and pigment you’re looking to use on based on the project.

140 lb watercolor paper weight is great to start on for most purposes. You can get a faster start on 140 lb than 300 lb since it takes on water faster. You’ll notice water sinking into it easier. 300 lb paper will take more effort, but you can build more on it. If you’re used to painting on very wet surfaces, you’ll have an easier and more comfortable experience on 300 lb paper.

Price is also a consideration when picking out a watercolor paper weight. Since 140 lb paper is midrange, it will often give you the best results for the price. For special projects, like portraits, go for heavier paper. Whenever you need to really need to do lots of brushwork or really scrub, 300 lb paper is best. It allows you to really float beautiful colors out onto it. You’ll likely use 300 lb paper sparingly, so be sure the occasion truly calls for it when you break it out. You can also expect it to dry flat - no buckling.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right weight of watercolor paper depends on the project at hand - the more scrubbing you want to do, the heavier weight you’ll need. For most purposes, 140 lb watercolor paper weight is perfect. For special occasions, don’t be afraid to spring for 300 lb. The results will speak for themselves on the paper!

Watch this video comparing 140 lb paper with 300 lb paper with Arts of Course instructor Jess Rice:

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