Hey guys! Ever wondered if you could just grab any paper and start watercoloring your heart out? Specifically, the question, "Can I watercolor on drawing paper?" is super common, and the answer isn't always straightforward. Let's dive into the nitty-gritty of watercoloring on drawing paper and figure out what works, what doesn't, and how to get the best results. So, grab your brushes, and let's get started!

Understanding Drawing Paper

First off, let's talk about drawing paper. Drawing paper is typically designed for dry media like pencils, charcoal, and pastels. It's usually lighter in weight compared to watercolor paper, meaning it's thinner. This can be a major factor when you introduce water. Think of it like this: drawing paper is like a lightweight t-shirt, while watercolor paper is like a thick, absorbent towel. The t-shirt can handle a bit of dampness, but it's not made for soaking!

The texture of drawing paper also differs. It often has a smoother surface, which is great for detailed line work. However, this smoothness can be a disadvantage when watercoloring. Watercolors tend to sit on the surface rather than being absorbed, which can lead to uneven washes and frustrating results. The fibers in drawing paper aren't as tightly bonded as in watercolor paper. When you apply water, these fibers can loosen and cause the paper to buckle or warp. This is especially true if you're using a lot of water or applying multiple layers. Warping can make it difficult to control your washes and achieve the effects you're after.

Another thing to consider is the sizing of the paper. Sizing is a substance (usually gelatin or synthetic resins) added to the paper during manufacturing to make it less absorbent. Drawing paper generally has less sizing than watercolor paper. This means it will absorb water more quickly, which can lead to bleeding and feathering of your colors. The absorbency rate affects how the colors blend and settle on the paper. With drawing paper, you might find that the colors spread uncontrollably, making it hard to achieve sharp lines or defined shapes. In a nutshell, drawing paper is designed for techniques that don't involve a lot of moisture. While it might be tempting to use it for watercolors, knowing its limitations can save you a lot of headaches. Understanding these properties helps you make informed decisions about whether or not to use drawing paper for your watercolor projects.

The Challenges of Watercoloring on Drawing Paper

So, what exactly happens when you try to watercolor on drawing paper? Well, it's not always a pretty picture! One of the biggest issues is buckling. Because drawing paper is thinner and less absorbent, it tends to warp and buckle when it gets wet. This can make it really difficult to control your washes and create smooth, even layers. Imagine trying to paint on a surface that keeps moving and changing shape – not fun, right?

Another challenge is color bleeding. Drawing paper absorbs water quickly, which can cause your colors to spread uncontrollably. This is especially problematic if you're trying to create fine details or sharp lines. The colors will just bleed into each other, resulting in a blurry, undefined mess. Plus, because the paper isn't designed to handle a lot of water, the colors may not appear as vibrant as they would on watercolor paper. They might look dull or washed out, which can be disappointing if you're aiming for bright, saturated hues. Think of it as trying to dye a fabric that's already soaked – the colors just won't adhere properly.

Lifting can also be a major issue. Lifting refers to the removal of paint from the paper when you try to layer or correct mistakes. Drawing paper doesn't hold onto the paint as well as watercolor paper, so you might find that the colors lift off easily, leaving you with patchy, uneven results. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you're trying to build up layers of color or create subtle gradations. Lastly, the overall finish might not be what you expect. Watercolor paper has a certain texture that enhances the look of watercolors, giving them a beautiful, luminous quality. Drawing paper, on the other hand, often lacks this texture, resulting in a flatter, less interesting finish. It's like the difference between a matte photograph and a glossy one – the glossy one just has that extra bit of visual appeal.

Techniques to Make it Work (Sometimes)

Okay, so watercoloring on drawing paper isn't ideal, but what if you're in a pinch? Are there any ways to make it work? Absolutely! With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can achieve decent results. One of the most important things is to use minimal water. The less water you use, the less likely the paper is to buckle or warp. Try using drier brush techniques, like dry brushing, which involves using a brush with very little water to create textured effects.

Another handy trick is to stretch your paper. Stretching involves wetting the paper and then securing it to a board with tape or staples. As the paper dries, it shrinks and becomes taut, which helps to prevent buckling when you start painting. It's a bit of extra work, but it can make a big difference. You can also try applying thin washes. Instead of flooding the paper with water, apply thin, even layers of color and allow each layer to dry completely before adding the next. This helps to prevent the paper from becoming oversaturated and reduces the risk of bleeding. Using light washes can minimize the stress on the paper.

Choosing the right type of drawing paper can also help. Look for heavier weight drawing paper, which is less likely to buckle than lighter weight paper. Also, consider using paper with a bit of texture, as this can help the watercolors adhere better. Experiment with different brands and types of drawing paper to see what works best for you. Consider using watercolor pencils instead of traditional watercolors. Watercolor pencils allow you to apply color in a dry form and then activate it with water. This can give you more control over the amount of water you're using and reduce the risk of damaging the paper. Additionally, work in small sections to maintain control. Focus on one small area at a time and allow it to dry before moving on to the next. This can help prevent the paper from becoming too wet and reduce the likelihood of buckling and bleeding. By using these techniques, you can mitigate some of the challenges of watercoloring on drawing paper and achieve more satisfying results.

Best Paper Choices for Watercolor

When it comes to watercolor, the type of paper you use can make or break your artwork. Using the best paper choices are essential for achieving the effects you desire. Watercolor paper is specifically designed to handle water, so it's generally your best bet. Watercolor paper comes in different weights, textures, and formats, so you have plenty of options to choose from. Hot press paper is smooth and ideal for detailed work, while cold press paper has a textured surface that's great for creating interesting washes and effects. Rough paper has the most texture and is perfect for bold, expressive paintings.

Paper weight is measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). Heavier paper (140 lb/300 gsm or higher) is less likely to buckle and can handle more water. Lighter paper (90 lb/190 gsm) is more affordable but may require stretching to prevent warping. 100% cotton paper is considered the highest quality because it's durable, absorbent, and archival. It can withstand a lot of water and layering without falling apart. Cellulose paper (wood pulp) is a more affordable option, but it's not as durable or absorbent as cotton paper. It's fine for practice or less demanding projects. Some popular brands of watercolor paper include Arches, Fabriano, and Strathmore. Each brand has its own unique characteristics, so it's worth trying out a few different ones to see what you like best.

Consider trying out watercolor blocks as they are convenient because the sheets are glued together on all four sides, which helps to prevent buckling. Once you're done painting, you can simply peel off the top sheet. Watercolor pads are another convenient option. They come in various sizes and are perfect for sketching and experimenting. You can also buy individual sheets of watercolor paper if you prefer to work on a larger scale or want to use a specific type of paper. Choosing the right watercolor paper might seem overwhelming, but it's a crucial step in creating beautiful watercolor paintings. Experiment with different types of paper and find what works best for your style and technique.

Final Thoughts

So, can you watercolor on drawing paper? The answer is a qualified yes. While it's not the ideal choice, you can make it work with the right techniques and a bit of caution. However, if you're serious about watercoloring, investing in proper watercolor paper is definitely worth it. It will make your life a whole lot easier and your paintings a whole lot better. Happy painting, everyone!