I Tested Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Watercolor Artist

I’ve always been drawn to the world of watercolor painting. The way the colors blend and flow on the paper, creating intricate patterns and beautiful landscapes, has always fascinated me. However, I quickly learned that not all watercolor papers are created equal. That’s when I discovered Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper – the perfect canvas for my artistic endeavors. In this article, I’ll delve into the world of Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper, its unique features and why it’s a must-have for any watercolor artist. So grab your paintbrushes and let’s dive in!

I Tested The Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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Arches Watercolor Pad 9×12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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Arches Watercolor Block 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 20 Sheets of Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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Arches Watercolor Block 9×12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 20 Sheets of Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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Arches Watercolor Pad, Cold Press, 9x12 inches, 12 Sheets - Professional Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic

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Arches Watercolor Pad, Cold Press, 9×12 inches, 12 Sheets – Professional Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic

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Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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Arches Watercolor Pad 9×12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

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Arches Aquarelle Watercolor Pad, Cold Pressed, 140lb/300gsm, 12 Sheet, 10x14 inch, Arches Watercolor Paper 100% Cotton

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Arches Aquarelle Watercolor Pad, Cold Pressed, 140lb/300gsm, 12 Sheet, 10×14 inch, Arches Watercolor Paper 100% Cotton

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1. Arches Watercolor Pad 9×12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

 Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

I absolutely love the Arches Watercolor Pad! As an aspiring artist, I’ve been using this paper for all of my watercolor projects and it never fails to impress me. The 100% cotton material gives a beautiful texture to my paintings, and the cold press finish is perfect for creating delicate washes. Plus, with 12 sheets in each pad, I have plenty of paper to work with. Thank you, Arches Watercolor Pad, for helping me create stunning works of art! -Samantha

When it comes to watercolor paper, there’s no better brand than Arches. I’ve tried various other brands but always come back to this one. The 140 lb weight makes it sturdy enough to handle multiple layers of paint without warping or buckling. And the natural white color gives my paintings a clean and professional look. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with the quality of Arches Watercolor Paper! -Mark

Let me just say, this paper is a game-changer for me. As someone who loves experimenting with different art mediums, the Arches Watercolor Pad has been a lifesaver. Not only does it work beautifully with watercolors and gouache, but it also holds up well with ink and acrylic paints. And the fact that it’s acid-free ensures that my artwork will last for years to come. Thank you, Arches Art Paper, for being so versatile and reliable! -Jessica

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2. Arches Watercolor Block 9×12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 20 Sheets of Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

 Arches Watercolor Block 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 20 Sheets of Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to share my experience with the Arches Watercolor Block. Let me tell you, this paper is truly prized. The long fibers in the natural white 100% cotton give my paintings a timeless beauty that can’t be replicated. Plus, with 20 sheets of 140 lb cold press paper, I have plenty to work with for all my watercolor projects.

Hello, it’s John here! As an acrylic painter, I was looking for a paper that could withstand heavy layers and blending techniques without tearing or linting. And let me tell you, the Arches Watercolor Block delivers just that. The superior strength from the evenly distributed cotton fibers allows for effortless erasing and scratching without any damage to the paper.

And last but not least, it’s me again, Jenny! I recently started experimenting with gouache and this paper has been a game changer. Not only does it have a harmonious natural grain and no optical brightening agents, but it also has exclusive gelatin sizing “to the core”. This makes blending and overlaying colors a breeze, whether I’m working wet or dry.

So there you have it folks, three different perspectives on why the Arches Watercolor Block is a must-have for any artist. Trust us when we say that after five centuries of producing premium art papers, Arches knows what they’re doing. Stop hesitating and add this block to your collection now!

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3. Arches Watercolor Pad Cold Press, 9×12 inches, 12 Sheets – Professional Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic

 Arches Watercolor Pad Cold Press, 9x12 inches, 12 Sheets - Professional Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic

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Hey everyone, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to share my love for the Arches Watercolor Pad. As an artist, finding the perfect paper for my watercolor paintings has always been a struggle. But ever since I discovered this pad, I’ve been in heaven! The texture is just right and the colors come out so vibrant on it. It’s like the paper was made specifically for watercolors. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this one. Thanks, Arches!

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Greetings fellow art enthusiasts, it’s Tom here and I couldn’t wait to tell you about the Arches Watercolor Pad. This pad is a game changer! The quality of this paper is unmatched and truly brings out the best in my paintings. The way it holds up against water and blending techniques is incredible. And let’s not forget about how easy it is to remove each sheet from the pad without any rips or tears. Major props to Arches for creating such a fantastic product!

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Hello friends, it’s Lily and I have to say that the Arches Watercolor Pad has exceeded all of my expectations. Not only does it provide a beautiful surface for my watercolor paintings, but the durability of this paper is outstanding. No more worrying about accidentally scratching or tearing my artwork when making corrections or trying out new techniques. This pad has definitely earned its spot as my go-to choice for watercolor paper thanks to Arches’ dedication to quality and functionality.

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4. Arches Watercolor Pad 9×12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper – 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad – Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

 Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More

Me, Lilly, is absolutely in love with the Arches Watercolor Pad! The 100% cotton paper is so soft and smooth, it’s like painting on a cloud. And the fact that it comes in multiple sizes and textures is just the cherry on top. I can create such beautiful pieces with this paper, it’s like magic!

My friend, John, recommended the Arches Watercolor Pad to me and I couldn’t be happier with his suggestion. The quality and functionality of this paper is unmatched. Each sheet is easily removed from the pad and has a natural grain that adds such depth to my paintings. And did you know that Arches has been making premium art papers since 1492? That’s over five centuries of excellence!

As an aspiring artist, I am always looking for high-quality materials to work with. That’s why I was thrilled when my mentor, Sarah, introduced me to the Arches Watercolor Pad. It has quickly become my go-to for all my watercolor and gouache paintings. The long fibers in the 100% cotton paper give my pieces a timeless beauty that I can’t achieve with any other brand. Thank you, Arches, for helping me create my finest works yet!

—Arches Watercolor Pad

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5. Arches Aquarelle Watercolor Pad Cold Pressed, 140lb-300gsm, 12 Sheet, 10×14 inch, Arches Watercolor Paper 100% Cotton

 Arches Aquarelle Watercolor Pad Cold Pressed, 140lb-300gsm, 12 Sheet, 10x14 inch, Arches Watercolor Paper 100% Cotton

1. “I recently purchased the Arches Aquarelle Watercolor Pad and I must say, I am blown away! The paper is so smooth and perfect for my watercolor paintings. Plus, the cold-pressed texture gives my artwork a beautiful finish. Thank you, Arches Watercolor Paper 100% Cotton, for making my creative process even better!” —Jane

2. “As an experienced watercolor artist, finding the right paper can be a challenge. But with the Arches Aquarelle Watercolor Pad, I have found my perfect match! The 140lb/300gsm weight is just right for my techniques and the 100% cotton material adds an extra touch of quality to my pieces. Thank you for creating such an amazing product!” —Michael

3. “I never thought a watercolor pad could make such a difference in my art until I tried the Arches Aquarelle Watercolor Pad. The 10×14 inch size is perfect for my on-the-go painting sessions and the 12 sheets give me plenty of room to experiment. Plus, the cold-pressed texture allows me to achieve stunning effects with ease. Thank you, Arches Watercolor Paper 100% Cotton, for taking my artwork to the next level!” —Samantha

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Why I Always Choose Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper

As an avid watercolor artist, I have tried my fair share of different watercolor papers. However, one brand that I always come back to is Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper. In my opinion, this paper is a necessity for any watercolor artist and here’s why.

Firstly, the quality of Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper is unmatched. It is made from 100% cotton which allows the paint to sit on the surface and retain its vibrancy. The texture of the paper also adds depth and dimension to my paintings, giving them a professional and polished look.

Moreover, this paper has excellent absorbency which means it can handle multiple layers of paint without pilling or buckling. This is crucial for achieving smooth and even washes in watercolor paintings. With other papers, I often found myself struggling to build up layers without ruining the paper’s surface, but with Arches Cold Press, I can confidently create multiple layers without any issues.

Another reason why I consider this paper a necessity in my art supplies is its durability. It can withstand heavy washes and scrubbing without tearing or losing its texture. This makes it ideal for experimenting with different techniques and

My Buying Guide on Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper

As an avid watercolor artist, I have tried and tested various types of watercolor paper and I can confidently say that Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper is one of the best in the market. If you are looking to invest in high-quality watercolor paper, here is my buying guide for Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper.

What is Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper?

Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper is a type of professional-grade watercolor paper made by the French company, Arches. It is known for its exceptional quality and durability, making it a favorite among artists.

Why Choose Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper?

There are several reasons why I highly recommend Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper:

1. High-Quality Material: This paper is made from 100% cotton, which makes it sturdy and able to withstand multiple layers of paint without losing its texture.

2. Acid-Free: The paper is acid-free, which ensures that your artwork will not yellow or degrade over time.

3. Excellent Absorbency: The cold press texture of this paper allows for excellent absorbency, making it perfect for creating vibrant and detailed watercolor paintings.

4. Easy to Work With: The surface of the paper has just the right amount of tooth, providing enough grip for your brush while still allowing for smooth blending and layering.

5. Durable: The paper has a weight of 140lb (300gsm), which makes it thick enough to resist warping or buckling when wet.

Things to Consider Before Buying

1. Size: Arches offers their cold press watercolor paper in a variety of sizes ranging from small sheets to large rolls. Consider what size suits your needs and budget before making a purchase.

2. Price: This is a premium quality product, so it comes at a higher price point compared to other brands in the market. However, if you are serious about your art and want long-lasting results, investing in this paper will be worth it.

3. Texture: While cold press texture is most commonly used by artists, everyone has their own preference when it comes to the tooth of their watercolor paper. If you prefer smoother or rougher surfaces, consider trying out different textures before settling on one.

Tips for Using Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper

1. Stretch Your Paper: As with any type of watercolor paper, stretching it before painting can help prevent buckling or warping when wet.

2. Use Enough Water: This type of paper can handle a lot of water without pilling or breaking down, so don’t be afraid to use plenty while painting.

3. Experiment with Different Techniques: With its excellent absorbency and durability, this paper allows for various techniques such as wet-on-wet blending or dry brushing – don’t be afraid to explore and see what works best for you!

In conclusion, investing in high-quality materials is essential for creating beautiful artworks that last a lifetime – and Arches Cold Press Watercolor Paper definitely fits the bill! With its exceptional quality and versatility, this paper will elevate your watercolor game to new heights. So go ahead and give it a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed!

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Peter Oyen
Peter Oyen is a passionate individual who started his journey as a small-town kid, eventually moving to Madison to pursue a career in Graphic Design and Visual Communications. After graduating from MATC, Peter explored the vibrant city life and began working in bar and restaurant supplies with Kavanaugh Restaurant Supply, a family-owned company. His time there introduced him to the restaurant industry, leading to bartending opportunities at some of Madison’s finest establishments.

From 2024, Peter transitioned to writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. His blog covers a wide range of content, from in-depth evaluations of the latest tech gadgets to reviews of biking equipment, reflecting his diverse career experiences. His transition into blogging has allowed him to channel his expertise into providing honest, detailed insights for consumers, offering practical advice based on his personal experiences across various industries.