What paper should I use for drawing with colored pencils?
by LJ
I love your site and cannot wait to invest in color pencils to reignite my passion for sketching in a whole new way. My only question; what kind of paper or canvas do I use?
Hi LJ,
Thanks so much for your message! When shopping for good drawing paper for use with colored pencils, I would suggest looking for paper that is labeled archival and/or acid-free, because other papers will yellow with age. Also look for paper that is fairly strong and sturdy.
You can choose to use white paper or colored paper - it's up to you. Depending on how much pressure you apply, the color of the paper will show through unless you press really hard or layer enough colored pencil to cover the paper. Some artists like having the color of the paper show through, so it's up to you. I'd suggest trying both white paper and colored paper and seeing which you prefer! It may even vary from drawing to drawing, depending on your subject matter.
I wrote a page about drawing papers for use with pen and ink, and many of those papers are valid for use with colored pencils also.
Colored pencil works well on printmaking paper also - which is nice and sturdy!
My personal favorite drawing papers for colored pencil drawings are Fabriano if I want to use white paper, and Strathmore ArtAgain Paper if I want to use colored paper.
Hope that helps and best of luck with your drawings!!
Thaneeya
