Choosing the Perfect Paper for Your Art Journaling
So you’ve got a notebook, a set of markers, or maybe even some paints, and you’re ready to dive into the world of creative journaling or art. But wait! Before you start, let’s talk about a detail that’s often overlooked but oh-so-important: the paper. Yep, the thickness and type of paper you choose can make or break your artistic journey.
I have had this problem every time I bought a new set of markers or paints only to discover that it will ruin my paper. So I decided to properly dive into the topic of thickness and kinds of paper. After digging out some information I have decided to write about some of my findings and create a little Art Journaling paper guide for you. Here is what I discovered.
*At the end some bonus tips or shall i say “Oh Really!” moment from Japan( that is where I live) and their approach to paper sickness.
Why Paper Thickness Matters
Ever started coloring or painting in a notebook, only to flip the page and find that your masterpiece bled right through? Or maybe the paper warped so much it looked like it went for a swim? That’s what happens when you use paper that isn’t thick or sturdy enough for your tools.
The thickness of paper is measured in gsm (grams per square meter). The higher the gsm, the thicker and sturdier the paper. For everyday writing, 80-100 gsm works fine, but when it comes to art, you’ll want something beefier. Here’s what to look for based on your tools:
For Markers
If markers are your go-to (think alcohol-based ones like Copics or water-based ones like Tombows), you’ll need paper that can handle the ink without bleeding through or feathering. Here’s the sweet spot:
- Weight: Look for paper that’s 160 gsm or higher.
- Type: Smooth papers, like Bristol board or specialized marker paper, are your best friends. They’re designed to prevent bleed-through and allow markers to blend beautifully.
- Bonus Tip: Always test your markers on a small section of the paper before going all in. Even with thick paper, some inks can behave unpredictably.
- Here is some paper that i use.
For Paints
Love the look of bold watercolor washes or textured gouache? Maybe acrylic is your jam. Whatever your choice, wet media demands strong paper that won’t warp or tear.
- Weight: Aim for 200-300 gsm. For water-heavy techniques like watercolor, 300 gsm is ideal.
- Type:
- Cold-pressed watercolor paper: Textured and great for creating rich, dimensional effects.
- Hot-pressed watercolor paper: Smoother and better for detailed work.
- Mixed-media paper: A versatile option that works for both dry and wet techniques.
- Bonus Tip: If you’re using paint in a bound notebook, consider taping down the edges of the paper to prevent warping.
For Mixed Media
Can’t decide between paints, markers, and pens? No problem! Look for mixed-media paper, typically around 200 gsm. It’s a jack-of-all-trades and perfect for experimenting with different tools.
What About Regular Notebooks?
If you’re using a standard notebook with thinner paper (say, under 160 gsm), don’t fret. You can still get creative:
- Use protective sheets (like wax paper) between pages to prevent bleed-through.
- Stick to dry media like colored pencils or light ink work.
- Layering? Not so much. Keep it simple to avoid damage to the paper.
Extra Tips for Notebook Artists
- Plan for Binding: Thicker paper means a chunkier notebook. If you’re making your own or buying one, ensure the binding is sturdy enough to handle it.
- Test, Test, Test: Before you commit to a notebook, try a sample page with your tools. You’ll know instantly if it’s a match.
- Keep It Fun: Art is about joy, not perfection. Even if the paper doesn’t behave as you’d hoped, embrace the quirks and let them inspire you.
- Even if it’s a thick paper, sometimes it might bleed through. Some sketchbooks have special mat included to put under a page to prevent that from happening.
The right paper can transform your art journaling experience from frustrating to fabulous. Whether you’re painting with watercolors, doodling with markers, or just experimenting with mixed media, choosing the right thickness and type of paper makes all the difference.
So next time you’re picking out a notebook, take a moment to think about your tools and your creative vision. Your art deserves a canvas that’s as amazing as the ideas in your head. Happy creating!
*And now to the extra bit of information you might not need. The Paper in Japan!
Oh when i started looking for thicknesses or the papers only to discover that the Japanese system is indeed very different.
Paper Thickness in Japan
In Japan, paper thickness is not typically measured in gsm. Instead, it is often described by “weight” (重さ), which refers to the weight of 1,000 sheets of a particular paper size. For example:
- Normal writing paper: Referred to as “64” or “70” weight, which roughly corresponds to 80-100 gsm.
- Thicker drawing or sketching paper: Often indicated as “120” or higher, which aligns with 160 gsm or more.
Japanese paper also tends to have unique textures and qualities due to traditional paper making methods. Check my post on Japanese paper here. These are some popular types:
- Washi (Japanese paper): Lightweight but strong, ideal for ink and calligraphy.
- Sketch or drawing pads: Typically marked for use with specific mediums like markers or watercolors, even if gsm isn’t indicated.
When shopping in Japan, look for sample books or test pads provided by stationery stores. Many stores allow you to try out different pens and markers to see how the paper performs. They will have a sample for you to open and feel the paper or sketchbooks lying in different sections of the store together with a particular medium that they were designed for. Super helpful if you ask me. Nevertheless, imagine my surprise when first shopping online and finding out that nothing that I know so far about the thickness of the paper makes sense in Japan. Anyway, if you have any more questions feel free to let me know. I am here to help! TA!
