The 5 Best Types of Paper for Painting Acrylic Paints for Beginners in 2023
The 5 Best Types Of Paper For Painting Acrylic Paints For Beginners In 2023
October 10, 2023
can paper be used with acrylic paint?
When thinking about acrylic we all seem to have that picture-perfect image in our heads: big easel, canvas, and a palette that’s basically a rainbow explosion. But let’s hit pause for a second. Canvas are… well, expensive.
Not everybody can allow themselves the luxury of learning using multiple canvases, and while you can always use a single canvas for multiple paintings, it’s not always the best option, with more uses, the natural texture and grip get lost and the canvas fabric gets damaged.
That’s where paper, the unsung hero of the painting world comes into place.
Believe it or not, paper is up for the job when it comes to acrylics, pick the wrong one, and you’re looking at a hot mess of warping and bleeding, but pick the right one and you’ll have a canvas-like surface that is resistant enough for whatever your creativity tells you to do.
But which paper do you need? What brand is better than the others? How do you know what paper is made for acrylics?
No worries, though! We’ve got your back. This article is your go-to guide for picking the best paper for your acrylic adventures. Trust us, your future self (and your art) will thank you.
Is acrylic paper any different than regular paper?
Acrylic paper is specially formulated to handle all the quirks that come with acrylic paint, most high-quality acrylic paper starts with top-notch materials. Two of the most common are cellulose and cotton. Cellulose is essentially plant fibre and offers an affordable yet effective option. Cotton, on the other hand, is like the VIP of paper materials, extra durable and absorbent but also a bit pricier.
Unlike your everyday paper, acrylic paper usually goes through a priming or coating process. This layer, often made of a material like gesso, helps the paper resist soaking up too much paint, which not only preserves your colours but also prevents the paper from warping or breaking apart.
Manufacturers also pay special attention to the weight and texture of the paper, you’ll often find acrylic paper ranging from medium to heavy weight, to ensure it can hold up to the heaviest brush strokes. As for texture, you’ll find options from ultra-smooth to “canvas textured” or “linen textured” and you can choose depending on what kind of effect you’re going for.
Best Acrylic Paper Overall:
Strathmore 400 Series Acrylic Paper Pad
The Strathmore 400 Series is a true gem in the world of acrylic painting. Highly praised by artists, this paper ticks all the right boxes. It boasts an authentic canvas-like texture, making it a top choice for artists accustomed to working on canvas but seeking an economical alternative.
With its acid-free composition, your artwork remains preserved over time, safeguarding the hours of dedication you’ve poured into it. Plus, its substantial weight ensures that acrylic paints won’t bleed through or cause unsightly warping—a must for those using thicker acrylics. However, it’s worth noting that this quality comes at a slightly higher price point, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious artists.
Best Beginner Acrylic Paper:
Arteza Acrylic Painting Pads
Arteza, known for their quality acrylic paints, has introduced acrylic paint pads to complement their artistic offerings. These pads are a budget-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on quality, making them ideal for beginners, students, and those who want to explore acrylics without breaking the bank.
While their texture and durability may not match premium options, they hold up well for various techniques, thanks to their decent weight. Available in multiple sizes and easily accessible, they provide a cost-effective entry point into acrylic painting. However, it’s important to note that they may be more prone to deformation and wear over time.
Best Professional Acrylic Paper:
Winsor & Newton Acrylic Paper
Winsor & Newton, renowned for its premium art supplies, delivers excellence in acrylic paper. This professional-grade option not only lives up to high expectations but also offers a reasonable price point, catering to both serious beginners and professionals.
The paper’s texture is thoughtfully designed to enhance acrylic paint adherence, resulting in vivid colours and crisp details. Its durability enables seamless layering without concerns of tearing or warping. However, it might be less readily available in local stores due to its specialized nature, potentially limiting accessibility for some artists.
Best Canvas Textured Acrylic Paper:
Canson Figueras Oil & Acrylic Paper Block
Canson introduces “Figueras,” a specialty paper tailored for acrylic and oil painting enthusiasts who appreciate the texture of canvas and linen. This unique paper features a specialized sizing barrier that adeptly absorbs solvents and binders while boasting the thickness required for multiple layers of acrylic paint. However, it may experience slight warping if not taped during preparation and tends to be relatively pricey and less readily available in all stores.
Best Value Acrylic Paper:
Canson XL Oil and Acrylic
While it may not match the texture and durability of specialized papers, it’s an excellent choice for experimentation and practice. Its slight drawbacks include lower thickness and quicker wear, particularly when working with multiple paint layers, but its affordability and widespread availability make it a standout option.
Choosing the perfect acrylic paint brush set can be a bit like embarking on an exciting adventure. Whether you’re just starting out, a passionate sketcher, or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered. We’ll break down the key factors that matter most: type, price, and consistency of work. By the end of this guide, you’ll have the insights you need to select the ideal acrylic paint brush set for your creative journey. So, let’s jump in and discover the colourful realm of acrylic paint brush sets together!