Best Papers for Colour Pencil Art: A Beginner's Guide

Starting your journey in colour pencil art can be exciting yet overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the right materials. One of the most crucial elements in creating stunning artwork is the paper you use. With various types, textures, and weights available, it can be challenging to navigate the options. In this guide, we will explore the best papers for colour pencil art, focusing on what beginners should look for in their artistic journey.

Understanding Paper Texture and Its Importance

When selecting paper for colour pencil art, texture plays a vital role. Generally, paper can be categorized into three main types: smooth, medium, and rough.

1. Smooth Paper: This type is ideal for detailed work and fine lines. If you want to create intricate designs with your colour pencils, a smooth surface will allow for precision. However, it might not hold multiple layers of pigment as effectively as textured paper.

   
   

2. Medium Texture Paper: Often considered the most versatile option, medium texture paper strikes a balance between smooth and rough textures. It allows for detail while also enabling layering and blending techniques.

   
   

3. Rough Paper: This paper has a more pronounced texture, which can add depth to your artwork. It is great for techniques like shading and creating softer effects, but it may not be suitable for fine details.

   
   

Understanding these textures will guide you in making the right choice for your colour pencil projects.

Textured surface ideal for layering with colour pencils

The Significance of Paper Weight

Alongside texture, the paper weight is another crucial factor to consider. Paper weight is measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). Here’s what you need to know:

• Lightweight Paper (below 150 gsm): While these papers are cheap and easy to find, they may not hold layers of colour well and can crumble or tear easily, making them less ideal for serious art.

  
  

• Medium Weight Paper (150-220 gsm): This is often the best choice for beginners. Medium-weight paper can handle multiple layers of colour and is more durable for erasing and blending.

  
  

• Heavyweight Paper (above 220 gsm): Heavyweight papers are excellent for serious artists who require durability and the ability to use wet media alongside colour pencils.

  
  

Choosing the right weight plays an important role in how your art will look and feel.

Recommended Beginner-Friendly Brands

Now that we’ve discussed texture and weight, let's look at some beginner-friendly brands that provide excellent options for colour pencil paper.

Strathmore

Strathmore is renowned for its high-quality art papers. Their 400 Series Sketch Book features medium-textured paper that’s perfect for practicing. It has a weight of 200 gsm, allowing for good layering without any bleed-through.

Strathmore sketch book for beginners' colour pencil art

Fabriano

Fabriano offers a wide range of professional-grade papers. The Fabriano Artistico line, although slightly more expensive, boasts incredible textural variety and weight options. Their hot-pressed paper is smooth, making it perfect for fine detail work, while the cold-pressed variant allows for textured layering.

Canson

Canson is another fantastic choice for colour pencil art. Their XL Series features a variety of paper types, including both sketch and mixed media pads. The weight is usually around 200 gsm, making it suitable for various techniques and media, an excellent choice for beginners starting their colour pencil adventures.

Techniques to Explore With Colour Pencils

Choosing the right paper opens the door to various techniques. Here are a few beginner-friendly methods you can try with your selected paper:

1. Layering: Building up colour in layers is a fundamental technique in colour pencil art. With medium to heavyweight papers, you can apply multiple layers for richer colours.

   
   

2. Burnishing: This technique involves using a lighter pencil to smooth out darker layers and create a polished finish. The right paper will support this technique by providing a surface that accepts multiple layers without tearing.

   
   

3. Blending: Whether using a blending stump or simply overlapping colours, blending is crucial for achieving smooth transitions. A textured paper can help create these gradients effectively.

   
   

By exploring these techniques, you will gain confidence and improve your skills as a colour pencil artist.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Paper

When it comes to selecting the best papers for colour pencil art, remember that texture and weight are your allies. Strathmore, Fabriano, and Canson offer a variety of options that cater to beginners, providing you with the tools to explore your creativity.

Starting your journey in art can feel daunting, but with the right tools, like quality paper, the process becomes a rewarding experience. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and materials; that's how you find your unique style.

Diverse set of colour pencil papers ready for creative projects

Whether you are sketching or blending tones, remember to enjoy the process. As you use these beginner-friendly papers, your skills will grow, and so will your passion for colour pencil art. Happy creating!