Best Paper for Colored Pencils: Top 13 Picks for Vibrant Results

Colored pencils are a popular medium for artists, students, and hobbyists alike. They offer a wide range of colors and the ability to create detailed and intricate artwork. However, the quality of the paper used can greatly affect the final result. The right paper can enhance the vibrancy and texture of the colors, while the wrong paper can cause the colors to appear dull or smudged.

When it comes to choosing the best paper for colored pencils, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the weight of the paper. The heavier the paper, the less likely it is to buckle or wrinkle when layered with multiple colors. The second factor is the texture of the paper. A rougher texture can hold more pigment and create a more textured look, while a smoother texture is better suited for blending and creating a softer look.

Another important consideration is the type of paper. Some papers are specifically designed for colored pencils, while others are marketed as multi-purpose and may not be suitable for use with colored pencils. It is also important to consider the color of the paper. White paper is the most commonly used, but colored paper can add a unique element to artwork.

In this article, we will explore the best paper options for colored pencils, taking into account the weight, texture, type, and color of the paper. Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist, we will help you choose the right paper to enhance your artwork and bring your creations to life.

Best Papers for Colored Pencils

If you're an artist or someone who loves coloring, you know that the quality of the paper you use can make a significant difference in the outcome of your artwork. When it comes to using colored pencils, the paper's texture, weight, and quality can affect how well the colors blend, how much pigment the paper can hold, and how well the colors stay on the paper. In this roundup, we've compiled a list of the best papers for colored pencils that will help you create stunning artwork with ease.

Strathmore Colored Pencil Spiral Paper Pad 9"X12"-30 Sheets -62477900 9x12

If you're looking for a reliable paper for your colored pencils, the Strathmore Colored Pencil Spiral Paper Pad is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Achieves smooth, even coverage
• Durable surface that stands up to repeated erasures and reworking
• Provides a clean white, toothy surface that is ideal for a variety of colored pencil techniques

Cons

• Not suitable for use with solvents
• May not be ideal for those who prefer a textured surface
• Some users have reported that the paper is thinner than expected

This paper pad offers excellent performance with colored pencil, graphite, charcoal, and sketching sticks. The micro-perforated wire bound sheets make it easy to tear out your finished work, and the acid-free paper ensures that your artwork will last for years to come.

One of the standout features of this paper is its ability to achieve smooth, even coverage. Whether you're layering colors or blending them together, you can expect consistent results with this paper. Additionally, the durable surface can withstand repeated erasures and reworking, so you can make adjustments to your artwork without worrying about damaging the paper.

Another benefit of this paper is that it provides a clean white, toothy surface that is ideal for a variety of colored pencil techniques. Whether you're creating detailed line work or bold, vibrant colors, this paper can handle it all.

However, it's important to note that this paper is not suitable for use with solvents. Additionally, some users have reported that the paper is thinner than expected, which may be a concern for those who prefer a thicker paper.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable paper for your colored pencils, the Strathmore Colored Pencil Spiral Paper Pad is definitely worth considering. With its smooth, even coverage and durable surface, it's a great choice for artists of all skill levels.

Strathmore Sketch Pad

If you're looking for a sketch pad that can handle a variety of mediums, Strathmore Sketch Pad is a great choice.

Pros

• The toned paper makes highlights pop, allowing for greater contrast between darks and lights.
• The paper is heavyweight and made with 100% recycled and 30% post-consumer fiber, making it durable and eco-friendly.
• The micro-perforated sheets are easy to remove without accidentally tearing your artwork.

Cons

• The paper has a smooth texture, which may not be ideal for those who prefer a more textured surface.
• Some reviewers have noted that the paper may not be suitable for wet media.
• The size of the sketch pad may be too small for some artists.

Strathmore Sketch Pad is a versatile option for artists looking to practice techniques with graphite, chalk, charcoal, markers, colored pencils, or pens. The toned paper is especially useful for creating greater contrast between darks and lights, and the heavyweight construction ensures that the paper won't tear or crease easily.

While the smooth texture of the paper may not be everyone's preference, it does allow for clean lines and precise details. Additionally, the micro-perforated sheets make it easy to remove your artwork without any accidental damage.

Overall, if you're in the market for a reliable sketch pad that can handle a variety of mediums, Strathmore Sketch Pad is definitely worth considering.

Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad

If you're looking for a high-quality paper pad for your colored pencils, the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad is a great choice.

Pros

• The heavyweight, 2-ply drawing sheet makes your artwork look crisp, bright, and ready to share without the need for mounting.
• The paper is available in two types of Bristol: Smooth Bristol is preferred for mechanical drawing, marker, and airbrush along with pen & ink, while Vellum Bristol is preferred for mediums that require a textured surface to grab pigment, like graphite pencil, colored pencil, charcoal, oil pastel.
• The Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad is a staple in the art community, making it a reliable choice for artists of all levels.

Cons

• The price of the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad is higher than similar products.
• The front cover of the paper pad may rip off easily.
• The Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad contains only 20 sheets, which may not be enough for some artists.

If you're looking for a high-quality paper pad that showcases your drawings, the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad is an excellent choice. The heavyweight, 2-ply drawing sheet helps your artwork look crisp, bright, and ready to share without the need for mounting. The paper is available in two types of Bristol, which are preferred for different mediums, making it a versatile choice for artists. While the price of the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad is higher than similar products, its quality and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for serious artists.

Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad

If you're looking for a high-quality paper pad for your pastel artwork, the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is an excellent option to consider.

Pros

• Made in the USA with superior sheet formation and harder surfaces
• Glue binding allows for easy removal and showcasing of pages
• Comes in three sizes: 9x12 inches, 11x14 inches, and 18x24 inches

Cons

• The color of the paper is not pure white like regular A4 paper
• The paper is not sanded and does not accept thick layers of pigment
• The color of the paper is not very saturated, so the pastel color only affects the warmth or coolness of the resulting artwork

This paper pad is perfect for advanced artists who want to work with a wider range of media and styles. The subtle colors and textured finish make it the ideal surface for oil pastels and soft or hard pastels.

The glue binding allows you to easily remove and showcase your pages, making it a great option for artists who want to sell or display their work. Additionally, the paper is made in the USA with superior sheet formation and harder surfaces, ensuring that your artwork will look its best.

However, it's worth noting that the color of the paper is not pure white like regular A4 paper, which may affect the final look of your artwork. Additionally, the paper is not sanded and does not accept thick layers of pigment, so it may not be the best choice for artists who prefer sanded papers. Finally, the color of the paper is not very saturated, so the pastel color only affects the warmth or coolness of the resulting artwork.

Overall, the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is an excellent choice for advanced artists who want a high-quality paper pad for their pastel artwork.

Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Paper Pad

If you're looking for a medium weight student grade drawing paper for your colored pencils, the Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Pad is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The medium surface finish of the paper allows for good erasability with pencil and colored pencil, making it easy to correct mistakes.
• This pad is also rated good for marker, mixed media, soft pastel, and oil pastel, making it versatile for different art projects.
• The glue binding and flip-over covers make it easy to use and store.

Cons

• The 70 lb./114 gsm paper may not be thick enough for heavy layering or wet media.
• Some users have reported that the paper may smudge or transfer color onto the opposite page.
• The pad only contains 50 sheets, which may not be enough for larger projects.

The Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Pad is a reliable choice for artists of all levels who want a paper that can handle their colored pencils and other media. The medium surface finish and good erasability make it easy to work with, while the glue binding and flip-over covers make it convenient to use. However, keep in mind that the paper may not be thick enough for heavy layering or wet media, and some users have reported issues with smudging and color transfer. Overall, if you're looking for a versatile and affordable drawing pad for your colored pencils, the Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Pad is worth considering.

SKETCHERIA 9’’X12’’ Heavy-Weight Sketch Book

If you're looking for a sketchbook that can handle a variety of dry media, the SKETCHERIA 9’’X12’’ Heavy-Weight Sketch Book is a great choice. Its acid-free, no-bleed paper is thick enough to prevent rippling and deformation, and every sheet is micro-perforated for easy removal and framing.

Pros

• Acid-free paper won't fade over time
• Thick paper prevents bleeding and deformation
• Micro-perforated pages for easy removal

Cons

• Pages may be too thin for wet media
• Some users may prefer a larger sketchbook size
• Covers may not be as sturdy as other sketchbooks

This sketchbook is a convenient size at 9 by 12 inches, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. Its twin ring binding allows you to lay it flat as you draw, and the spiral part won't get in the way. The sturdy covers will keep your artwork protected from folding and unexpected tearing.

The SKETCHERIA sketchbook is suitable for a variety of dry media, including pencil, pen, pastels, charcoal, graphite, sketching sticks, and gel pen. It can resist repeated erasing without destroying the texture or leaving noticeable marks.

Whether you're an amateur just starting out or a professional artist, this sketchbook is an excellent choice to practice your craft. It's also a great gift for the creatives in your life. With the SKETCHERIA 9’’X12’’ Heavy-Weight Sketch Book, you can work your magic with confidence and finesse!

Strathmore Learning Series Colored Pencil Textures Pad

If you're looking to improve your colored pencil art skills, the Strathmore Learning Series Colored Pencil Textures Pad is a great option.

Pros

• The 100lb Bristol vellum paper is perfect for colored pencils as it has a smooth surface that allows for easy blending and layering.
• The 32 fully colored pages of instruction and 12 step-by-step lessons make it easy to follow along and learn new techniques.
• The 12 online tutorials provide additional instruction and inspiration.

Cons

• The pad only contains 12 sheets of paper, so it may not be enough for those who want to practice extensively.
• Some users have reported that the paper tends to smudge easily, which can be frustrating when working with colored pencils.
• The price point may be higher than other similar products on the market.

If you're a beginner or intermediate artist looking to improve your colored pencil art skills, the Strathmore Learning Series Colored Pencil Textures Pad is definitely worth considering. The instructional content is easy to follow and the paper is of high quality, making it a great option for those who want to take their art to the next level.

Floit Toned Gray & Tan Sketchbook Paper Pad

If you're looking for a sketchbook paper pad that can accommodate oil pastel, colored pencils, and charcoal drawing, the Floit Toned Gray & Tan Sketchbook Paper Pad is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The toned gray and tan colors of the paper make your drawings stand out, regardless of the color you use.
• The paper has a good tooth for creating texture while still being smooth enough for shading.
• The variety of colors allows for more diverse art materials and techniques.

Cons

• The paper size is small (7.2 x 10 inches) which may not be ideal for some artists.
• The paper may be too smooth for some drawing techniques.
• The muted colors of the paper may not be suitable for those looking for more vibrant colors in their artwork.

This sketchbook paper pad is a great choice for artists who want to experiment with different art materials and techniques. The toned gray and tan colors of the paper make it a unique choice that will make your drawings stand out. The paper has a good tooth for creating texture while still being smooth enough for shading, which is perfect for oil pastel, colored pencils, and charcoal drawing.

One downside to this product is the small size of the paper (7.2 x 10 inches), which may not be ideal for some artists who prefer larger sketchbook paper pads. Additionally, the paper may be too smooth for some drawing techniques, although it should work well for pencil drawing. Finally, the muted colors of the paper may not be suitable for those looking for more vibrant colors in their artwork.

Overall, the Floit Toned Gray & Tan Sketchbook Paper Pad is a great choice for artists who want to experiment with different art materials and techniques. It's a unique product that will make your drawings stand out, and the paper quality is great for a variety of drawing techniques.

Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils

If you're looking for an affordable set of colored pencils for your coloring books, the Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils might be a good option for you.

Pros

• The set includes 72 individual colors, providing you with a wide range of options for your coloring projects.
• The pencils have soft leads that are easy to sharpen and won't break or crumble easily.
• The set comes with an eco-friendly tube that makes it easy to store and organize your pencils.

Cons

• The colors may not be as vibrant as some other sets of colored pencils.
• The pencils may not work as well on certain types of paper.
• The set may not be suitable for young children due to small parts.

If you're looking for an affordable set of colored pencils that provides a good range of colors and easy-to-use pencils, the Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils might be a good option for you. The set includes 72 individual colors, which means you'll have plenty of options to choose from for your coloring projects. The pencils have soft leads that are easy to sharpen and won't break or crumble easily, which makes them a good choice for beginners or anyone who wants to avoid frustration while coloring. Additionally, the set comes with an eco-friendly tube that makes it easy to store and organize your pencils, which is a nice bonus.

However, there are some downsides to this set of colored pencils. The colors may not be as vibrant as some other sets of colored pencils, which could be a drawback if you're looking for bold, bright colors. Additionally, the pencils may not work as well on certain types of paper, so you may need to experiment a bit to find the right paper for your needs. Finally, the set may not be suitable for young children due to small parts, so keep that in mind if you're purchasing this set for a child.

Overall, the Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils are a good option if you're looking for an affordable set of colored pencils that provides a good range of colors and easy-to-use pencils. Just be aware of the potential downsides before making your purchase.

Mifuner Sandpaper Sharpener

If you're looking for an affordable and convenient way to sharpen your colored pencils, the Mifuner Sandpaper Sharpener might be a good choice for you.

Pros

• The set includes three different sizes of sandpaper sharpeners, making it easy to find one that fits your needs.
• The sandpaper sharpeners are designed to be easy to grip and use, with an ergonomic handle and a hole for hanging and storage.
• The sandpaper sheets can be easily torn off when they're worn out, saving you time and hassle.

Cons

• Some users report that the sandpaper sheets wear out quickly and need to be replaced frequently.
• The sandpaper sharpeners may not work as well for very hard or brittle pencils.
• The instructions for using the sandpaper sharpeners may be a bit vague or confusing for some users.

Overall, the Mifuner Sandpaper Sharpener is a solid choice for anyone who needs a simple and affordable way to sharpen their colored pencils. While it may not be the most durable or high-quality option out there, it gets the job done and is easy to use.

Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Paper Pad

If you are looking for a versatile paper that can handle different types of media, the Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Paper Pad might be a good option for you.

Pros

• This paper is a medium weight student grade drawing paper that is ideal for final artwork.
• It offers a medium surface finish that allows for good erasability with pencil and colored pencil, and readily accepts charcoal and sketching sticks.
• The paper is rated good for marker, mixed media, soft pastel, and oil pastel.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the paper is too thin and can easily tear when erasing or working with wet media.
• The micro-perforated sheets may not tear off cleanly, leaving a rough edge.
• The wire binding may get in the way when working on the edges of the paper.

This paper pad is a great option for artists of all levels who want a versatile paper that can handle different types of media. The medium weight and surface finish allow for good erasability and acceptability of different materials. However, some users have reported issues with the thickness of the paper and the micro-perforated sheets. Overall, if you are looking for a paper that can handle different types of media, the Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Paper Pad is worth considering.

Floit Colored Sketchbook Paper Pad

If you're looking for a paper pad to use with oil pastels or colored pencils, the Floit Colored Sketchbook Paper Pad might be worth considering.

Pros

• The toned gray and tan paper colors provide a unique background for your artwork.
• The paper size is compact and convenient for on-the-go sketching.
• The paper is acid-free and safe for long-term storage of your artwork.

Cons

• The paper weight is pretty light, so it may not hold up well with heavy layering or blending.
• There isn't much tooth to the paper, which may not be ideal for some drawing styles.
• It may not be the best choice for oil pastels, as they may not adhere well to the paper.

This paper pad includes four colors of 40 sheets each, sized at 7.2 x 10 inches. While the toned paper colors may be a unique feature, the light weight and lack of tooth may not be suitable for all artists. If you prefer a heavier weight paper or need more tooth for layering and blending, this may not be the best option for you. However, if you're looking for a compact and convenient sketchbook for on-the-go drawing, this paper pad may be worth considering.

In terms of compatibility with oil pastels, the lack of tooth and light weight may not be ideal for some artists. However, it's always worth experimenting to see if it works for your specific style and preferences. Overall, the Floit Colored Sketchbook Paper Pad is a decent option for those looking for a unique toned paper background for their colored pencil artwork.

Zenacolor Black Sketchbook (Pack of 2, 60 Sheets) 9X12”

If you're looking for a sketchbook that will bring your creativity to life, the Zenacolor Black Sketchbook is a great choice.

Pros

• The black sketch paper allows you to think of your creation in a different way and contrast your art.
• The thick, durable paper is perfect for a variety of tools, including colored pencils, charcoal, pastels, and more.
• The perforated sketch book pages make it easy to remove your creations and admire your artwork.

Cons

• Some users found the paper to be thinner than they expected.
• The embossed finish may not be ideal for all types of artwork.
• The sketchbook may not be suitable for those who prefer traditional white paper.

The Zenacolor Black Sketchbook is a great choice for artists of all levels. The bound pads come with 2 x 30 quality, detachable sheets of thick black paper (150GSM) and a cover made of thick cardboard. The black sketch paper allows artists to let their creativity flow while exploring new drawing perspectives. You can play with different tools because the black drawing paper is thick, making it perfect for charcoal pencil, chalk pen, pastels, paint, watercolor pencil, colored pens, gel pen, and more.

The perforated sketch book pages make it easy to remove your creations and admire your artwork. You can flick through the spiral sketch pads filled with your talent and see your progress as an artist. The sketchbook is a great gift for artists and is perfect for sketching, portraits, landscapes, and more.

If you're looking for a sketchbook that will bring your creativity to life, the Zenacolor Black Sketchbook is a great choice. With its thick, durable paper and perforated sketch book pages, you can create and admire your artwork with ease.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best paper for colored pencils, there are a few features you should consider to make sure you get the most out of your art supplies.

Surface Texture

The surface texture of the paper is an important factor to consider. A rougher surface will hold more pigment, allowing for better color saturation, while a smoother surface will produce sharper lines and details. Consider the effect you want to achieve and choose a paper with the appropriate texture.

Weight

The weight of the paper is another important feature to consider. A heavier paper will be more durable and less likely to tear or buckle under the pressure of the colored pencils. However, a lighter weight paper may be more suitable for blending and layering colors. Consider the type of artwork you will be creating and choose a paper with the appropriate weight.

Acid-Free

When choosing paper for your colored pencils, it is important to choose acid-free paper. Acid-free paper will not yellow or deteriorate over time, ensuring your artwork will last for years to come.

Color

Consider the color of the paper as well. A white or off-white paper will allow your colors to appear more vibrant, while a colored paper can add a unique background or tone to your artwork.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the paper. While high-quality paper may be more expensive, it is often worth the investment to ensure the longevity and quality of your artwork. However, if you are just starting out or practicing, a more affordable paper may be a good option.

By considering these features, you can choose the best paper for your colored pencils and create stunning artwork that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What paper type enhances the performance of Prismacolor colored pencils?

Prismacolor colored pencils are best used on a paper with a toothy surface that can hold multiple layers of color. A paper with a weight of 90lb or higher is recommended for optimal results. The ideal paper type for Prismacolor colored pencils is a high-quality drawing paper, such as Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Paper or Canson XL Drawing Paper.

Which paper should I choose for detailed work with colored pencils?

For detailed work with colored pencils, it is best to choose a paper with a smooth surface that can capture fine details. A paper with a weight of 80lb or higher is recommended for detailed work. The ideal paper type for detailed work with colored pencils is a Bristol paper, such as Strathmore Bristol Smooth or Canson XL Bristol Smooth.

Can I use watercolor paper for my colored pencil artwork?

Watercolor paper is not recommended for colored pencil artwork, as it has a highly textured surface that can cause the colors to appear grainy and uneven. Additionally, watercolor paper is designed to absorb water, which can cause the colored pencils to become waterlogged and lose their vibrancy.

What are the benefits of using Bristol paper with colored pencils?

Bristol paper is a high-quality paper that is ideal for use with colored pencils. It has a smooth surface that can capture fine details, and it can hold multiple layers of color without smudging or smearing. Additionally, Bristol paper is available in a variety of weights and textures, making it versatile for a range of colored pencil techniques.

How does the Strathmore series of paper impact colored pencil application?

The Strathmore series of paper is a high-quality paper that is ideal for use with colored pencils. It has a toothy surface that can hold multiple layers of color, and it is available in a variety of weights and textures to suit different colored pencil techniques. Additionally, Strathmore paper is acid-free and archival, ensuring that your artwork will last for years to come.

Are there specific papers recommended for Polychromos colored pencils?

Polychromos colored pencils are best used on a paper with a toothy surface that can hold multiple layers of color. A paper with a weight of 90lb or higher is recommended for optimal results. The ideal paper type for Polychromos colored pencils is a high-quality drawing paper, such as Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Paper or Canson XL Drawing Paper.