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FAQ (7)
Finishes for Shading Techniques
I work mostly with a graphite pencil, can you give some tips on selecting a drawing paper for shading techniques?
The selection of paper for shading techniques is influenced by the type of pencil used, the degree of darkness desired, the shading technique used and the expression of the shading technique desired. The key here is to select a paper surface (medium or smooth) based upon the effects you’re looking to achieve.
As a general rule, a textured surface will be able to produce a more even, more luminescent shade than a smooth surface. These types of surfaces are usually chosen for
shading as the texture of the paper makes shading easier and produces a greater range of tone that can be more evenly applied.
The higher the grade of textured paper surfaces the deeper and more even the resulting shading will be. While all
three Strathmore® grades – 300, 400 and 500 – will produce even, deep, luminescent shades, the 500 Series papers will produce the richest and
deepest shade.
The smoother the paper grain the more difficult it will be to produce an even shade. Although smooth papers can produce good results with graphite, they cannot produce as great a range of tone (shade) as textured surface paper. A smooth surface is very good for pen and ink as well as marker.
Strathmore Medium Surface Drawing Paper
Even, medium textured surface. Random surface produces subtle, rich shades that are expressive with great luminosity and sensitivity.
Strathmore Bristol Vellum
Medium textured surface. Random surface, with texture that is slightly more pronounced (peaks and valleys slightly further apart than drawing paper), enabling paper to handle very soft graphite pencils. Produces shades that are extremely expressive, but not as sensitive as Strathmore medium surface drawing paper.
Smooth Paper Surface
The higher the grade of smooth surface paper, the smoother the paper surface. While all three Strathmore grades – 300, 400 and 500 – are smooth, the 500 Series paper is the smoothest. The smoother the paper the more difficult it is to produce an even shade.
Selecting Marker Paper
What should I look for when selecting a Marker Paper?
We suggest that you look for a 100% cotton paper. Cotton fibers are stronger than wood pulp fibers. Cotton improves many of the working properties that are important, including the paper’s ability to accept heavy marker coverage without bleeding, and allows for the building of colors and blending of tones. Cotton also improves surface strength.
The paper should have some degree of transparency if you intend to “trace” from images. A nice white sheet provides the proper background reflection for marker pen colors. Look for a smooth finish which allows the marker to flow across the surface of the sheet with little resistance. This allows you to work at a quicker pace which reduces the likelihood of feathering. Smoothness also helps artists achieve sharper edges.
More information about 500 Series Marker Paper.
Papers for Bookmaking
I want to make my own watercolor sketchbook using traditional bookmaking techniques.
I’m really looking forward to getting creative with it! What paper do you recommend using for this purpose?
Artists tell us they love using our 500 Series Aquarius II® Watercolor paper for bookmaking. This unique cotton/synthetic blend of watercolor paper resists buckling so it doesn’t need to be stretched. It is also lighter weight (80 lb) compared to traditional watercolor sheets (140 lb) so it’s easier to work with when cutting and binding books. The finish is smoother than traditional watercolor which makes it an excellent mixed media sheet.
Rag Paper
What is meant by "rag" paper?
Rag is a term used today to describe papers that contain cotton rags and linters. Rags come from the clippings used in the making of textiles and from the reprocessing of cotton garments. Linters are the by-product of the cotton gin process. They are shorter fibers that cling to the cotton seed after it is extracted by the cotton gin. This makes cotton rag a more environmentally-friendly option compared to tree-based papers.
There are also a number of other advantages to papers that are constructed of 100% cotton. First, cotton cellulose is up to 10 times stronger than wood cellulose. Cotton is also lignin free. Lignin that is left in tree-based papers will naturally turn yellow or brown over time.
Cotton paper has become the preference of many professional artists because of its purity, durability and permanence.
Plate vs. Smooth Bristol
What is the difference between the smooth surface of your 400 series Bristol and the plate surface of your 500 series Bristol?
While both smooth and plate surfaces offer a finish suitable for smooth, fine line details, our plate surface is considered an "ultra-smooth" finish which is ideal for the professional illustrator. The surface is excellent for detailed work with pen and ink, technical pen, airbrush and markers.
The term "plate" comes from a process that is exclusive to the Strathmore® brand. The finish is created by hand – layering sheets of paper between special metal plates to create a "book." The book is sent to a specialized piece of equipment that compresses it creating a very consistent, ultra smooth surface like no other.
Synthetic Sizing
I’m a vegan. What is paper "sizing?" I’ve heard that some companies use animal products as part of their sizing process? Do you use animal products in your paper sizing?
Sizing is applied to paper in the papermaking process to make sheets less porous. Without sizing, paper would react to moisture like a blotter. The type and amount of sizing applied to paper varies with each type based on the desired working properties.
Drawing paper is sized for surface strength, helping protect the surface for erasing. Watercolor paper is sized to help produce a consistent wash as well as help the scrubbing and layering of colors. We do NOT use any animal products as part of our sizing process. We use plant-based and synthetic sizing.
Storing Fine Art
Do you have any tips about storing my fine art drawings?
Here are some general guidelines. Use acid and lignin-free paper, board or boxes for storage. Do not use PVC plastics. They are unstable and release damaging fumes. Do not store your art in damp areas such as the basement or by heaters. Avoid locations that experience extreme temperatures such as attics.