Paper types, weights, and textures for every medium
| Paper | Weight | Texture | Best For | Key Brands |
|---|
GSM (g/m2): Grams per square meter. Higher = thicker and more absorbent.
lb: Weight of a ream (500 sheets) at a standard size. Varies by paper type.
Under 150 gsm: Sketch paper, practice. 150-300 gsm: Drawing, light washes. 300+ gsm: Watercolor, heavy wet media.
Hot Press (Smooth): Fine detail, pen, ink, colored pencil.
Cold Press (Medium): Most versatile, general painting and drawing.
Rough: Dramatic texture effects, heavy washes, expressive work.
Vellum: Slightly toothy, great for graphite and charcoal.