Watercolor on paper

As an artist who's always on the lookout for quality art supplies that don't break the bank, I recently decided to dive into the world of Meeden watercolor paper. You know that feeling when you're about to try a new art supply? There's a mix of excitement and a little bit of apprehension. But as the saying goes, 'Begin now and let courage catch up' – a motto I often remind myself of when trying something new in my art journey. So, I grabbed some Meeden paper and got to work. My first impression of Meeden watercolor paper was quite positive. I typically prefer cold press paper for its textured surface, which beautifully catches pigments and adds character to my washes. Meeden offers various weights, but I opted for their 140lb (300gsm) cold press, which is usually a good standard for watercolor to prevent excessive buckling. Upon touch, it felt sturdy, with a pleasant tooth – not too rough, not too smooth. This texture is fantastic for layering and creating interesting visual effects, especially if you enjoy granulation with certain pigments. When it came to actually painting, the paper held up surprisingly well. It absorbed water at a decent rate, allowing for ample working time without drying too quickly or too slowly. This is crucial for smooth blending and creating soft edges. I found that colors rewet and lifted quite easily, which is a huge plus for corrections or adding highlights later in the process. I experimented with several techniques, from wet-on-wet washes to dry brushing, and the paper handled them all without significant issues. There was minimal buckling, especially when taped down, which is what I’d expect from a 300gsm paper. One thing I particularly appreciated was how vibrant the colors appeared on the paper. Sometimes, less expensive papers can make pigments look dull, but Meeden paper allowed the true brilliance of my watercolors to shine through. It felt like a reliable surface that could support both delicate details and bold, sweeping landscapes. Of course, no paper is perfect for everyone. If you're used to extremely high-end artist-grade papers, you might notice subtle differences in how it handles very complex lifting or a massive amount of successive washes. However, for everyday practice, studies, or even finished pieces, Meeden provides excellent value. For those just starting or looking for a more affordable option without compromising too much on quality, this paper is definitely worth considering. You can usually find Meeden watercolor paper packs on Amazon or specialty art supply stores online, often in convenient pad formats. In conclusion, my experience with Meeden watercolor paper has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s a dependable, artist-friendly option that delivers good performance. It reminds me that you don't always need the most expensive materials to create beautiful art. Just 'Begin now and let courage catch up' – grab some watercolor and Meeden paper, and see where your creativity takes you!