Do you know how to differentiate between and choose the right paper for the technique you are going to use?
Choosing paper is a question that raises many questions, and it is important to consider all of the factors involved before making a decision. That's why we're providing you with all the essential information you need to know on this subject in this article.
The terms "paper weight" or "grammage" and "thickness" are often confusing for people who are unfamiliar with them, as these two concepts are different.
Paper thickness
Perhaps the word 'thickness' is more familiar than 'grammage'. It is a measurement of distance, specifically the distance between the two sides of the same sheet.
Paper can be 'heavy', such as kraft or other recycled papers, or thin, such as aluminium foil or papyrus.
A wide variety of thicknesses are available.
Paper weight
It corresponds to the weight of a sheet of paper per square metre. For instance, paper with a weight of 100 g means that a 1 m² sheet weighs 100 grams in total.
The higher the grammage, the thicker, stronger and higher quality the paper.
Each paper weight has a specific use, so it is important to note that there are different types.
- <60g: very thin, translucent papers such as rice paper or tracing paper.
- 60-115g: thin paper for magazines, plans or books.
- 115 - 150g: standard paper, which is very common in pads and for drawing and dry techniques. Medium thickness and medium-high quality.
- 150-200g: medium thickness and high quality. Ideal for dry and wet techniques.
- 200-300g: paper for mixed media, printing, engraving, blotting, etc. High quality.
- 300-400g or more: high thickness and very high quality. Suitable for painting techniques.
Paper is given a specific finish during manufacture, which varies depending on how it is made. This process is called pressing.
What are the different types of finish that can be achieved by pressing a sheet of paper in different ways?
- Natural: This is natural, unbleached paper. The sheet has not been pressed and is presented in its natural state. It is dried as soon as it is removed from the mould.
- Highly absorbent paper: This paper is ideal for water-based techniques as it is absorbent yet resistant, making it perfect for artists who want to achieve a rich texture and grain.
- Cold-pressed: The paper has a medium-fine grain. It is designed to work well with fluid techniques. Its light texture and stability are its main advantages.
- Hot pressed: As a general rule, the sheet is characterised by its high flexibility, which significantly reduces its absorbency. Dry and wet techniques are compatible, provided the product is not over-moistened and care is taken with the details.
When it comes to pressing, there are different types of grain, or texture.
- Satin grain: It has no texture. It is smooth and non-absorbent. They are ideal for sketches, mixed media, graphite and coloured pencils, and ink, and they dry quickly.
- Fine grain: Slightly rough texture. Very versatile for all techniques.
- Medium grain: Medium texture. Ideal for good absorption and suitable for all techniques.
- Coarse grain: Coarse grain with a very textured finish. It is best suited to large formats. Its intense roughness makes it difficult to create details.
We hope these tips help you choose the right paper for your next project.
