ARCHES

The most prized watercolour paper

ARCHES, making papers since 1492, uses traditional cylinder moulds, to make one of the best artist grade watercolour papers available. ARCHES Aquarelle is made from 100% cotton rag and a unique hard sizing (keeps water on the surface), allowing for multiple washes and lifting (of mistakes!). Choose from a rough, cold pressed (medium grain) or hot pressed (smooth) surface - in 185 or 300gsm paper weight. ARCHES Rough is not overly rough and usually the preference for pure watercolour, to show off pigment granulation. ARCHES Cold Pressed provides a medium texture and is conduicive to both painting and line work. ARCHES Hot Pressed is a relatively smooth surface, that will still show off paint character, but allows for more detail and fountain pen work. Blocks are glued on all four edges and help to keep the paper flat, especially if you use a lot of water. Pads are glued on one edge, making page removal easier and the preferred format for line and wash. Full sheets (300gsm, 56 x 76cm), available for Pick Up from our Brookvale store, are the best value. You can cut them into 4 or 8 pieces and paint on both sides. There is a very subtle difference in texture between the sides, so as you cut the sheet, label the back in pencil with a "B" so you can learn which side you prefer. We keep good stock levels and low prices for ARCHES, so that even the beginner artist can access and get the benefit from a quality cotton watercolour paper. Store paper flat, away from light and moisture, and keep your hands off the surface.