Which Paper is Best for Adult Coloring Books?

When it comes to choosing the right type of paper for your adult coloring book, you need to consider the medium you will be using. The choice of paper can significantly impact the quality of your artwork and your overall experience while coloring. This article explores the types of paper that work best for different mediums and offers tips on how to make an informed decision.

Understanding Paper Types

The type of paper you choose should depend on the medium you plan to use. Here are some common paper types and their characteristics:

Printer Paper: This is the most common paper and is generally cost-effective. However, it lacks texture and is not suitable for water-based media like watercolor paints. Printer paper is ideal for dry media such as colored pencils, markers, and crayons. Watercolor Paper: This paper is specifically designed for watermedia and has a slightly textured surface. It comes in various weights, but 140 cold press is a popular choice. Cold Press Paper: This type of watercolor paper has a slight tooth and is perfect for blending and layering colors. It is also suitable for use with watercolor sticks, pencils, and crayons.

Choosing the Right Paper for Watercolor Paintings

If you plan to use watercolor or any other water-based medium for coloring, it is essential to select a paper that can handle the moisture without buckling or bleeding. Watercolor paper is the ideal choice for watercolor paintings.

For a beginner or someone who often uses watercolor paints, a 140 cold press paper is highly recommended. This paper offers a balance between texture and smoothness, allowing for easy blending and layering of colors. It also provides enough tooth to hold the paint without muddling the colors.

Using Watercolor Paper with Dry Media

While watercolor paper is best for water-based media, it can also be used for other dry media like colored pencils. However, you may find that the paper may not hold the pencil markings as vividly as printer paper. Cold press watercolor paper can still be used with dry media, but the results may vary.

Other Water-Soluble Art Supplies

Watercolor paper is versatile and can be used with other water-soluble art supplies, such as water-soluble oil pastels and gel sticks. These supplies can blend smoothly on the paper, creating beautiful and vibrant colors. If you plan to experiment with different media, investing in watercolor paper can be a good choice.

Where to Buy Suitable Paper

To find the perfect paper for your adult coloring book, it's essential to understand the types of media you plan to use. Start by asking at your local arts and crafts store for papers suitable for your chosen media. This will give you a clear idea of the options available.

Once you have a list of recommended papers, do some research online and compare prices at various retailers. Both online and brick-and-mortar stores can be great sources for finding the best deal on high-quality papers.

In conclusion, the right type of paper can make a significant difference in your adult coloring experience. Whether you prefer printer paper for dry media or watercolor paper for water-based art, the key is to choose a paper that works well with the mediums you plan to use. By making an informed choice, you can ensure that your colored pages turn out beautifully and last for years to come.