For everyday sketching and studies, start with a pad from Paper and Pads and choose the surface based on feel: smoother papers suit clean line work, finer detail, and coloured pencil layering, while a bit more tooth helps charcoal grab and build rich darks. If you want an easy “grab and go” option, browse drawing and sketch pads, then pair with graphite pencils, charcoal, and erasers for clean lifting and corrections.

Think of it as “dry media to wet media”: sketch paper is great for quick pencil work, drawing paper is usually sturdier for finished pieces and more erasing, mixed media paper is built to handle both dry tools and light washes, and watercolour paper is made for lots of water and repeated layering. If you use multiple tools (pencil, marker, ink, acrylic), start in Paper and Pads, then move to the paper type that matches how wet and how layered your process is.

For most watercolour painters, a heavier sheet (often 140 lb / 300 gsm) is the easiest place to start because it buckles less, then choose surface by the look you want: hot press for smooth lines and crisp detail, cold press for versatile texture, and rough for more grainy effects. Shop options in watercolour paper, then match your palette from watercolours and your tools from watercolour brushes, and you can always cross-shop back through Paper and Pads for sketch pads and mixed media options.

Look for smoother, denser papers made for marker and pen work (they help reduce feathering and keep lines sharp), and always do a quick corner test because different inks and markers behave differently. Start with Paper and Pads, then pair your surface with tools from markers and precision pens, or try acrylic-based options in acrylic ink if you want bold colour and layering.

Yes, but choose the right surface: for acrylic paint, heavier mixed media or watercolour paper usually holds up best, and taping the edges down can help keep sheets flatter. For fluid colour and line work, explore acrylic ink, and when you are done, consider sealing finished pieces (once fully dry) with options from acrylic finishes. You can browse compatible surfaces any time in Paper and Pads and Mixed Media.

For printmaking, you typically want paper that can take pressure and pull clean details: smoother papers highlight crisp carving marks, while more absorbent papers can give a softer, richer impression. Start with printmaking paper, then build your setup with lino and block printing tools and the right colour from Impressions block printing ink (or browse more in Printmaking). You can still cross-shop general pads in Paper and Pads for sketches and planning.

Yes, for journaling and planning check grid and dot journals and lined journals and notebooks, and for sketch journaling browse blank journals and paper. For lettering and practice sheets, pair your notebook choice from Paper and Pads with tools from calligraphy pens, and if you want in-person help, check the events calendar for upcoming classes and demos.

Let the work dry fully, then store it flat between clean sheets (or in a portfolio) with gentle weight on top to reduce curling. For dry, dusty media like charcoal, a light protective spray can help, see spray fixative; for acrylic or mixed media pieces on paper, a final protective coat from acrylic finishes can help once everything is fully cured. For long-term storage and transport, browse portfolios, and pick your next surface from Paper and Pads.