Understanding Art Papers: GSM, Types, and How to Choose
Paper is the one supply most beginners underinvest in. You buy decent brushes, reasonable paints, and then grab the cheapest paper you can find, and then wonder why everything looks off. The truth is, paper affects your results more than paint does. This guide explains what to look for and how to choose the right paper for what you're making.
What is GSM?
GSM stands for Grams per Square Meter. It's simply the weight and thickness of the paper. The higher the GSM, the heavier and more robust the sheet.
| GSM Range | Paper Type | Good For |
|---|---|---|
| 60 to 100 GSM | Printer or notebook paper | Not suitable for painting |
| 150 to 180 GSM | Sketch paper | Pencil and dry media only |
| 200 to 240 GSM | Cartridge or mixed media paper | Dry and light wet media |
| 300 GSM and above | Watercolor paper | Heavy water techniques |
Cartridge Paper (Mixed Media Paper)
Cartridge paper is the most versatile drawing and mixed media paper. Its smooth, fine-grain surface handles a wide range of techniques. At 240 GSM, it works well with pencil, charcoal, colored pencils, oil pastels, ink, gouache, and light watercolor washes.
Cartridge paper is ideal for daily practice, illustration, and mixed media projects. It's more affordable than watercolor paper and comes in large quantities, so you can work freely without worrying about wasting a sheet.
Watercolor Paper
Watercolor paper is made to handle water. At 300 GSM or more, it's absorbent and textured to help paint flow and settle evenly. It comes in three surface types:
- Hot Pressed: Smooth surface. Better for detailed illustration and pen work.
- Cold Pressed: Slightly textured. The most common choice for watercolor, a good balance of control and texture.
- Rough: Very textured. Great for loose, expressive painting and landscapes.
Cotton vs Wood Pulp Watercolor Paper
Wood pulp (cellulose) paper
More affordable, works fine for practice. Paint dries faster and color can look slightly flat. Limited reactivation once dry.
25% Cotton
A great middle ground. More absorbent, handles wet-in-wet techniques much better. A solid choice for intermediate painters who want better results without the premium price.
100% Cotton
Professional quality. The paint blooms beautifully on wet cotton paper. Colors are more vibrant, you can lift dry paint to recover highlights, and wet-in-wet effects are fluid and controllable. Worth investing in once you're serious about watercolor.
Quick Reference: Paper by Medium
| Medium | Recommended Paper |
|---|---|
| Pencil, Charcoal, Pastel | 240 GSM Cartridge Paper |
| Watercolor (practice) | 300 GSM 25% Cotton Cold Press |
| Watercolor (serious work) | 300 GSM 100% Cotton Cold Press |
| Gouache | 240 GSM Cartridge or 300 GSM Watercolor |
| Ink and Brush Pen | 240 GSM Cartridge Paper |
| Acrylic (thin layers) | 240 GSM Cartridge or Canvas Board |
Browse the full ARTIOS art paper range, 240 GSM mixed media cartridge papers and 300 GSM 25% and 100% cotton watercolor papers, in A2 to A6 sizes. All acid-free, archival quality, and sold as loose sheets.