Hot Press vs. Cold Press: Watercolor Paper Basics

Watercolor painting is a beautiful and expressive medium, but the choice of paper can dramatically affect the outcome of your work. In this post, we'll explore the key differences between hot press and cold press watercolor paper, the meaning of paper weights such as 140lb and 300lb.

Hot Press vs. Cold Press Watercolor Paper

Hot Press Watercolor Paper

Hot press paper is smooth and has a fine texture. This type of paper is created by pressing it through heated rollers, resulting in a surface that’s ideal for fine details and smooth washes.

close up of a painting on hot press paper

Pros:
- Smooth Surface: Excellent for detailed work, such as portraits or illustrations where precision is key.
- Less Absorbent: Allows more time to work with the paint, making it easier to create gradients and blend colors.
- Bright Colors: Colors often appear more vibrant and defined because it absorbs less water
Cons:
- Less Texture: Not ideal for techniques that rely on texture, such as dry brushing.
- Lifting and Erasing: Paint can be more easily lifted, which might be a downside if you want layers to remain intact.
- Less Grip: Some artists find it harder to control washes as the smooth surface can cause paint to slide.

Cold Press Watercolor Paper

Cold press paper has a moderate to heavy textured surface, depending on the brand. It’s created by pressing the paper through cold rollers, giving it a slightly bumpy finish. It can also be called ‘rough’.

close up of painting on cold press paper

Pros:
- Versatile Texture: Suitable for a variety of techniques, including detailed work and loose washes. The texture adds character to your paintings.
- Absorbent: More absorbent than hot press, making it easier to build up layers and create rich textures.
- Good Grip: Provides better control over washes and paint flow.
Cons:
- Less Smooth: Can make techniques like lifting more difficult.
- Textural Effects: Granulation is more apparent which can make creating a smooth wash more difficult.
- Variable Drying: The texture can cause uneven drying if the paint isn’t applied evenly.

Understanding Watercolor Paper Weights: 140lb vs. 300lb

The weight of watercolor paper is a critical factor in determining its performance and suitability for different techniques. Paper weight is measured in pounds (lb) and refers to the weight of a ream of 500 sheets at a standard size.

140lb Watercolor Paper

Pros:
- Versatile: Suitable for most watercolor techniques, from light washes to moderate wet-on-wet applications.
- Flexible: Can be stretched or taped down to prevent warping, or used as is for lighter applications.
- Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than heavier papers.
Cons:
- Warping: Tends to warp and buckle when heavily saturated with water, especially if not stretched beforehand.
- Drying Time: Dries more quickly than heavier paper, which can limit working time for wet techniques.

300lb Watercolor Paper

Pros:
- Durable: Very thick and less prone to warping, making it ideal for heavy washes and complex layering techniques.
- No Stretching Needed: Can be used without stretching or taping, saving preparation time.
- Extended Working Time: Retains moisture longer, allowing for extended manipulation of wet paint.
Cons:
- Expensive: Typically more costly than lighter papers.
- Heavier Texture: The thickness can make cold press paper have a more pronounced texture.

Conclusion

Choosing the right watercolor paper depends on your artistic goals, techniques, and budget. Hot press paper is ideal for smooth, detailed work, while cold press paper offers a textured surface that’s versatile for various techniques. When considering weight, 140lb paper is great for general use but may require stretching, whereas 300lb paper provides stability for heavy applications without warping.

Experimenting with different types of paper is part of the watercolor journey, helping you discover what best suits your style and methods. Paper preference is a very personal choice, and most of the pros and cons described here can be very subtle differences.

Over the years, I’ve explored various watercolor papers and can confidently recommend Arches and Fabriano for artists of all levels. These brands offer a range of types and weights, and I use them interchangeably in my own work. Personally, I favor 140lb paper—both hot and cold press—depending on the project. For larger pieces, 300lb paper is ideal. In a watercolor sketchbook, 140lb paper is versatile enough to paint on both sides, with one side smoother like hot press and the other textured like cold press.

I prefer a spiral-bound sketchbook for ease of use, such as the Strathmore Visual Journal. Ultimately, your choice of sketchbook is personal, but the quality of the paper inside is what truly matters.

I encourage everyone to experiment and decide what works best with your needs and style.