The Essential Guide to Watercolour Paper and Preparation - Free Handbook

Free 14 page digital handbook

Have you ever stood in the art supply aisle, staring at shelves of watercolour paper, wondering which one to choose? You’re not alone!

For someone just starting out the variety of papers, weights and textures can feel a little mysterious. Choosing the right paper is often the first hurdle for new water-colourists—so I created this booklet to help you start your journey with confidence.

This booklet will give you a simple, beginner-friendly overview of watercolour papers, plus tips for selecting the right one for your needs. With a little knowledge, you’ll feel confident the next time you face that wall of paper in the art store!

For more experienced watercolour painters, I have also included diagrams of my favourite ways to divide a full sheet of watercolour paper into creative, practical sizes and information about float matting.

This handbook is free - a gift from me to you with hopes that knowing more about selecting watercolour paper and options for preparing and presentation will bring you a little more painting joy.

Happy Painting!

Linda

This download is filled with colour and is best kept on your computer to conserve paper and ink.

Please note: The world of paper is wonderfully varied—many companies offer unique weights, textures, and sizing beyond what we’ve included here. Think of this guide as your jumping-off point to explore and discover your own favourites.

Below is a peek at a few of the 14 pages. There is no charge for the handbook or for shipping because this is a digital download.

Follow this link to see my original paintings of Birds and Animals