As long as they're properly looked after – stored to avoid heat, humidity and direct light – they'll last long enough for all but the most ambitious artists! As you'll see below, manufacturers have found ways to make affordable, high-quality papers that aren't 100% cotton. If you're just a beginner or on a budget, don't despair. The downside, as you've probably guessed, is that 100% cotton papers are expensive. If cared for, they can last for centuries! Paper made from cotton is also strong and pliable, allowing it to stand up to rough techniques. Cotton fibers are naturally acid-free and will not deteriorate as much over time. For truly archival paper, look for paper made from 100% cotton (sometimes called "rag paper" or 100% rag). High quality acid-free paper will last a long time, but because of what they’re made from, there’s still the possibility that acid will re-occur. It’s quite common for manufacturers to neutralize acids during production, but the best brands take extra steps to stop the acid from returning: they add alkaline buffers and reserves, and some even remove the lignin itself (look for the label “lignin-free”). Most papers are made from wood pulp and cellulose fibers that naturally become more acidic with age (thanks to the lignin they contain). If only I’d listened to my high school art teacher! For example, most of the drawings I created in high school were done on cheap drawing paper, and now over 2 decades later, the paper is fragile and yellow, which has altered the colors in the artwork.
This is important because any acid in the paper will attack the fibers and cause them to deteriorate and become yellow over time. After that, the most crucial step is for you to practice and experiment with your own colored pencils.Īt a minimum, the paper you buy should be acid-free. It can be downright overwhelming! In this article I’ll demystify the jargon and give you the tools to narrow your search down to a handful of paper products that meet your criteria. When you’re at the art supply store looking for colored pencil paper, you’ll probably find yourself facing an huge range of similar products, often described with unusual terms like Bristol, vellum, and cold press. This article is designed to help you figure out what will work best for your particular needs. Paper is cheaper than other mediums (like canvas), easy to get in a variety of styles, and provides a delightful surface for colored pencils.Īs is the case with other art supplies, the best colored pencil paper for you comes down to personal preference, which is why I don’t simply say “Buy this one!” Your choice hinges on your budget, art style, and skill level.
Did you know that colored pencils can be used on a wide range of surfaces beyond paper-such as wood, plastic, metal, clay and more?! For this article we’re going to simplify things by focusing only on paper, which is by far the most popular choice amongst colored pencil artists.
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