Which Side Of Watercolor Paper To Paint On
Watercolor painting is a beautiful and delicate art form that requires a lot of skill and patience. One of the most important things to consider when starting a watercolor painting is which side of the paper to paint on. In this article, we will discuss the different types of watercolor paper and which side is best to paint on.
Types of Watercolor Paper
There are two main types of watercolor paper: hot-pressed and cold-pressed. Hot-pressed paper is smooth and has a fine-grained surface. It is great for detailed work and is often used for botanical illustrations or architectural drawings. Cold-pressed paper, on the other hand, has a more textured surface and is perfect for landscapes, skies, and other areas where you want to create a sense of depth and texture.
Which Side to Paint On
When it comes to watercolor paper, there is a right and wrong side to paint on. The right side is known as the "front" or "facing" side, and the wrong side is known as the "back" or "reverse" side. The front side is smoother and has a more even texture, while the back side is rougher and more textured.
It is important to paint on the front side of the paper, as it will give you better results. The front side is designed to absorb water and pigment more evenly, allowing for a more vibrant and consistent color. The back side, on the other hand, can cause the paint to bleed and spread unevenly, resulting in a less polished and professional-looking painting.
How to Tell the Difference
Now that you know which side to paint on, how do you tell the difference between the front and back of the paper? The easiest way is to look for the watermark. A watermark is a subtle design that is pressed into the paper during manufacturing. It is usually visible when you hold the paper up to the light.
The watermark will be visible on the back side of the paper, so if you see it, you know that you are looking at the wrong side. If you don't see the watermark, then you are looking at the front side of the paper.
Other Things to Consider
When choosing watercolor paper, there are a few other things to consider besides the type and side of the paper. The weight of the paper is also important, as it will affect how much water the paper can hold without buckling or warping. A heavier paper will be able to hold more water, but it will also be more expensive and take longer to dry.
You should also consider the quality of the paper. High-quality paper will be made from 100% cotton or a cotton blend, which will make it more durable and resistant to yellowing over time. Cheaper paper may be made from wood pulp or other materials, which can lead to fading and deterioration over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to watercolor paper, it is important to paint on the front or facing side of the paper. This will give you better results and a more professional-looking painting. Make sure to also consider the type, weight, and quality of the paper when choosing the right paper for your project.