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Best Drawing Paper For Graphite And Charcoal (2024 Update)

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If you’re looking for the best drawing paper for graphite and charcoal, there are a few factors you should consider before making your purchase. First, you'll want to think about the weight of the paper. It’s important to choose a paper that is heavy enough to withstand applying graphite or charcoal without smudging or tearing. Look for paper that has a weight of at least 80 pounds.

Another factor to think about is the texture of the paper. A smoother surface is ideal for detailed graphite drawings, while more textured paper can bring out the richness and depth of charcoal. You should also consider the overall size and format of the paper you choose. Will you be using a sketchbook or individual sheets? If you plan to frame your finished artwork, you'll want to select paper that is larger than your final image to allow for matting.

Have you ever drawn using graphite or charcoal and found that the paper quality held you back? Are you keen on improving your skills and are searching for the best drawing paper for your artwork? If yes, understanding the fundamental factors to look out for before buying drawing paper can help you make the best decision for your needs. With the right paper, you can achieve a more polished, refined and professional appearance in your art.

Do you want to create realistic and expressive textures in your artwork or draw with charcoal but haven’t found a paper that delivers good results? With the right paper, you can produce darker and richer shades of black, and showcase subtle tonal changes in your artwork. Choosing the best drawing paper can significantly affect the overall quality and look of your artwork.

10 Best Drawing Paper For Graphite And Charcoal

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for artists who need high-quality cotton drawing paper for various mediums such as graphite pencil, charcoal, pastel, and calligraphy.
2
This product is ideal for artists using graphite pencil, charcoal, pastel, felt pen and more on natural white 75% cotton paper.
3
The product is ideal for artists as it includes a variety of drawing tools and a carry case.
4
This product is ideal for adult artists and learners who require a sketchbook with high-quality paper and spiral binding versatility.
5
This sketch pad is ideal for adult and student artists working with graphite, charcoal, pencil, and colored pencil.
6
Ideal for artists looking for a pack of 3 spiral-bound sketchbooks with 100 sheets each, suitable for a variety of drawing mediums.
7
This product is ideal for artists and students who need a high-quality sketchbook with acid-free paper and the ability to hold different mediums.
8
This product is ideal for kids, beginners, and artists looking for a sketchbook to draw with graphite, charcoal, and more.
9
This product is ideal for artists, students, and anyone who uses graphite or colored pencils, charcoal, or mixed media.
10
This drawing pad is ideal for artists using graphite, charcoal, pastel, calligraphy, and other mediums on 100% cotton paper.
This product is ideal for artists who need high-quality cotton drawing paper for various mediums such as graphite pencil, charcoal, pastel, and calligraphy.
This product is ideal for artists using graphite pencil, charcoal, pastel, felt pen and more on natural white 75% cotton paper.
The product is ideal for artists as it includes a variety of drawing tools and a carry case.
This product is ideal for adult artists and learners who require a sketchbook with high-quality paper and spiral binding versatility.
This sketch pad is ideal for adult and student artists working with graphite, charcoal, pencil, and colored pencil.
Ideal for artists looking for a pack of 3 spiral-bound sketchbooks with 100 sheets each, suitable for a variety of drawing mediums.
This product is ideal for artists and students who need a high-quality sketchbook with acid-free paper and the ability to hold different mediums.
This product is ideal for kids, beginners, and artists looking for a sketchbook to draw with graphite, charcoal, and more.
This product is ideal for artists, students, and anyone who uses graphite or colored pencils, charcoal, or mixed media.
This drawing pad is ideal for artists using graphite, charcoal, pastel, calligraphy, and other mediums on 100% cotton paper.

1. Arches Cotton Drawing Pad – Extra White, 16 Sheets.

Arches extra white 100% cotton drawing paper is a prized possession for any artist. With its long fibers, this paper provides an inimitable touch and timeless beauty. The paper is available in bound drawing pads of 9×12-inch and 10×14-inch sizes and comes in three stunning finishes – white, extra white, and cream.

The cylinder mold process used to distribute cotton fibers evenly in the paper provides exceptional resistance to scratching and erasing without tearing or linting. This allows for homogeneous, dimensional stability, optimum rendering, and outstanding control. The superior strength of the paper is perfect for professional drawing, making it a popular choice among academicians and professionals alike.

The exquisite quality and functionality of this prestigious sketch paper is unmatched. The fine grain, smooth texture makes it an ideal choice for artists who want to play with shadow and light effects while highlighting slight surface details. The paper's surface gelatin sizing is designed to limit absorption capacity, enabling any ink or felt-tipped wet media to resist bleeding. It increases the luster and vibrancy of your colors, while the high cotton content creates mechanical strength.

Arches paper has been producing premium art papers since 1492, and their philosophy remains the same – to make the best papers that enable artists to produce their finest works while guaranteeing they will last as long as our papermaking heritage. With its superior quality, strength, and functionality, Arches extra white 100% cotton drawing paper is a must-have for any artist looking to create a masterpiece.

2. Arches Artist Drawing Pad: Natural White Cotton Paper

Introducing Prized Paper, an exceptional drawing paper made from 75% natural white cotton by Arches. Available in two sizes, 9×12-inch and 10×14-inch, and three stunning finishes including white, extra white, and cream, this paper is a timeless beauty that provides an inimitable touch to your artwork.

The long fibers in this paper are distributed evenly using a cylinder mold process, providing exceptional resistance to scratching and erasing without tearing or linting. This homogeneous distribution of fibers also allows for dimensional stability, optimum rendering, and outstanding control, making it a superior choice for artists.

This prestigious sketch paper for drawing is intricately laced with laid grid lines that preserve every nuance of your pencil strokes. The grid lines provide beautiful relief and allow you to achieve depth in your drawings and sketches, making it the perfect choice for artists who want to take their work to the next level.

Arches drawing paper is gelatin surface-sized, limiting absorption capacity so any ink or felt-tipped wet media resists bleeding. This sizing helps preserve the vibrancy of your colors, while the high cotton content creates mechanical strength.

Arches has been producing premium art papers since 1492, and their philosophy remains the same: to make the best papers and enable artists to produce their finest works while guaranteeing they will last as long as their papermaking heritage. With Prized Paper, you can be confident that you are using a high-quality product that will elevate your artwork to new heights.

3. Sketch Studio: 40-Piece Artist Kit With Pop-Up Stand

Introducing the Ultimate Drawing Set, designed to make your creative process effortless and enjoyable. Housed in a sturdy and stylish zipper case, this set unfolds into organized sections that stand up for easy selection, allowing you to carry it anywhere you go.

Curated by in-house artists, this set is a comprehensive collection of sketching materials perfect for both seasoned and starting artists. It includes graphite, charcoal, and pastel pencils, as well as charcoal and graphite sticks, blenders, and other tools that will help you push your creative boundaries.

The tools in this set are balanced and shaped to hold and control, ensuring that you have a premium quality experience with smooth and reliable performance. Made from non-splinter wood, with break-defying leads, you can be sure that this set will last for a long time. Additionally, the blender included in the set allows you to explore different techniques and media.

As a bonus, this set comes with a detailed and easy-to-follow 20-page book filled with demos and tips to help you make the most of the art supplies. The fold-out tutorial included in the guide helps you create stunning drawings using different techniques and media.

This set has been tested and trusted by our studio experts to beat competitors, and has been used and loved by over 1.5 million customers worldwide. Backed by our unique Money-back Plus guarantee, you can purchase this set with confidence knowing that you are investing in a high-quality product that will exceed your expectations.

4. Castle Art Sketch Book Duo!

The sketch pad is an excellent choice for artists who are always on the go. With 100 sheets per pad, it is lightweight and easy to carry around, making it perfect for any creative pursuit. The spiral binding ensures quick and easy flipping of pages, while each sheet is perforated for convenient removal for display or reference.

The quality of the sketch pad is unmatched, with 90gsm cartridge paper that is smudge-resistant and non-fade. The acid-free paper also helps to prevent yellowing, making it an excellent choice for capturing and preserving ideas, observations, and experiences as you move through life and the world.

Drawing on this sketch pad is an absolute joy, thanks to its textured surface that provides an excellent grip for dry media. You can experiment with graphite pencils, charcoal, pastels, colored pencils, or gel pens, giving you the freedom to try out different techniques and styles.

If you're looking to improve your drawing skills, this sketch pad comes with a tutorial that unfolds in five stages. You can learn how to draw the impressive knights on the cover and apply the lessons to your own work, helping you to build your skills and take your art to the next level.

This sketch pad has been tested and trusted by 1.5 million customers worldwide, making it one of the most popular art supplies on the market. Our studio experts have also tested it and found it to be superior to competitors. We stand behind our product with a unique Money-back Plus guarantee, ensuring that you can purchase with confidence.

5. Sketchmaster Artist Pad With 100 Sheets

Introducing the Micro-Perforated Wire Bound Sheets! These sheets are the perfect addition to any artist's collection. They are designed to offer a lightweight sketch paper with a fine tooth surface, making them ideal for a range of art techniques including graphite pencil, colored pencil, charcoal, and sketching stick.

Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist, these sheets are perfect for classroom experimentation, practice of various techniques, or quick studies with any dry media. The micro-perforated wire binding allows for easy removal of sheets without any damage, making it convenient to create multiple sketches without any hassle.

One of the most significant features of these sheets is the acid-free paper that ensures the longevity of your art. You can be confident that your artwork will remain vibrant and fresh for years to come. Additionally, these sheets are proudly made in the USA, so you can trust in their quality.

6. Arteza Sketchbooks – Pack Of 3.

The Arteza Art Books for Drawing is a set of three sketchbooks that is perfect for artists who are looking for a sturdy and reliable paper that can handle dry media. The sketchbooks are made of heavyweight paper that has the right toothy surface to grab dry media, such as graphite and colored pencil, charcoal, and soft pastel. With a total of 300 sheets, the set is ideal for practice, quick studies, and preliminary drawing with any dry media.

The heavyweight 100 gsm (68 lb) art paper used in the sketchbooks is specifically designed for dry media. Artists won't have to worry about flimsy paper that easily tears or smudges when they're trying to erase something. Additionally, the sketchbook set comes with perforated pages and a hard back cover to protect your drawings. This makes it perfect for artists who are always on the go and need a sketchbook that can withstand wear and tear.

Designed and created by artists, the Arteza Art Books for Drawing is the perfect tool for advanced artists who need a reliable and high-quality sketchbook. Arteza is passionate about creating products that inspire, and for them, art is an expression of the human experience. That's why they work hard to make their art supplies accessible to all people.

Arteza was built on the foundation of providing quality painting, drawing, and art supplies for all ages and levels. They offer a wide range of arts and crafts accessories, paint sets, drawing supplies, and more. If you have any issues with their products, their customer service team is always ready to help and make it right.

7. Sketch Bliss: Top Spiral Pad & Charcoal Set

This 2 Pack of 11" x 14" Professional Sketch Book Pads is a must-have for every artist. With 100 sheets in each pad, the set offers a total of 200 premium quality sketch pad sheets to help unleash your artistic creativity. These sketchbooks are perfect for aspiring artists, art students, and professional artists alike.

The high-quality sketch pads feature standard-weight, 60 lb, 100 gsm, smooth natural white paper sheets. These versatile, durable, acid-free, and neutral pH sketching paper sheets are suitable for all types of mixed media and all skill levels of artists.

The sturdy top spiral-bound sketchbooks make for easy page-turning, and the pads have a heavy chipboard backing and cardstock cover for extra protection. These sketch pads are excellent for kids and adults to create artwork or develop and practice their skills.

Sketch pads are perfect for writing, drawing, and sketching, and are great for use with colored pencils, graphite pencils, pens, markers, charcoal, soft pastel, sketching sticks, and more. The pads allow for a wide range of artistic expression and techniques.

8. Bellofy Sketch Book Bundle: Perfect For Artists!

The Sketch Without Worries sketchbook is an ideal tool for artists who need a durable sketch pad. The paper is specially designed to withstand frequent erasing, so you can sketch and erase as much as you want without worrying about damaging the paper. The acid-free paper ensures that your artwork will last a lifetime, making it perfect for those who want to preserve their drawings for future generations.

This sketchpad comes in a set of three, each with 100 sheets, providing a total of 300 sheets for all your sketching needs. The paper is 65 lb 95 gsm and has a fine tooth surface, making it perfect for graphite, charcoal, ink, and more. The high-quality paper ensures that your artwork will look professional and polished, no matter what medium you use.

You can trust this sketchbook to provide you with a high-quality drawing experience every time. The micro-perforated pages make it easy to tear out your drawings without worrying about unexpected rips or tears. The top spiral binding allows you to turn the pages easily and provides a flat drawing surface, making it perfect for artists who need a stable drawing platform.

One of the best features of this sketchbook is the excellent customer service you'll receive when you place your order. If for any reason you're not satisfied with your purchase, you can contact our customer service team, and they'll take great care of you.

With the Sketch Without Worries sketchbook, you can create beautiful artwork that you'll be proud to show off. Whether you're a professional artist or a beginner, this sketchbook is the perfect tool for unleashing your creativity. Order yours today and experience the joy of sketching without worries.

9. Premium Sketch Paper Pad For Artists And Students.

Introducing the 2 Pack of 9" x 12" Premium Drawing Paper Pads, a must-have for all art enthusiasts! With 50 sheets in each pad, this set offers a total of 100 premium quality drawing and sketching sheets that are just waiting for you to unleash your creativity.

These high-quality sketch pads boast standard-weight, 60 lb, 100 gsm, fine tooth natural off white paper sheets that are acid-free and have a neutral pH. These versatile, durable, and acid-free drawing paper sheets are suitable for all types of mixed dry media, and all skill levels of artists can use them.

The drawing sheet's surface allows for clean erasing, while the pads have a heavy chipboard backing and cardstock cover for extra protection. They are glue bound for easy sheet removal and excellent for kids and adults to create artwork or develop their skills.

These sketch pads are ideal for writing, drawing, and sketching. They are perfect for use with colored pencils, graphite pencils, pens, markers, charcoal, soft pastel, sketching sticks, and more.

These premium drawing pads make a perfect gift to anyone who enjoys sketching, drawing, and creating art. They are perfect for aspiring artists, art students, and professional artists alike! Whether you are a beginner or an expert in art, these drawing pads will help you to create your masterpieces.

10. Arches Artist Pad: Extra White Cotton Drawing Paper.

Arches extra white 100% cotton drawing paper is a highly coveted product among professional and amateur artists. This exquisite paper is available in 9×12-inch and 10×14-inch bound drawing pads, with three stunning finishes: white, extra white, and cream. The long fibers in this paper provide timeless beauty and an inimitable touch, making it an ideal choice for artists who want to create art that will stand the test of time.

One of the distinguishing features of this paper is its superior strength. The cylinder mold process distributes cotton fibers evenly to provide exceptional resistance to scratching and erasing without tearing or linting. This allows for homogeneous, dimensional stability, optimum rendering, and outstanding control. Artists can create their best works with confidence, knowing that the paper can resist wear and tear without sacrificing quality.

The exquisite quality and functionality of this paper make it a preferred choice among academic and professional artists. The fine grain, smooth texture makes it an ideal sketch paper for drawing. Artists can play with light and shadow effects while highlighting slight surface details to create masterpieces that are visually stunning.

Arches drawing paper is gelatin surface-sized to limit absorption capacity, ensuring that any ink or felt-tipped wet media resists bleeding. This feature increases the luster and vibrancy of the colors, while the high cotton content creates mechanical strength. Artists can enjoy unparalleled control and precision, making it easier to create works that are both beautiful and long-lasting.

Finally, Arches has been producing premium art papers since 1492. After five centuries, the Arches philosophy remains the same: to make the best papers and enable artists to produce their finest works while guaranteeing that they will last as long as our paper-making heritage. This commitment to quality has made Arches a trusted name among artists all over the world.

Best Drawing Paper For Graphite And Charcoal FAQs

Are there any specific brands that make the best paper for graphite and charcoal drawing?

There are several brands that are known for producing high-quality paper for graphite and charcoal drawing. One of the most popular brands is Strathmore, which offers a range of drawing papers specifically designed for different types of media, including graphite and charcoal. Another well-regarded brand is Canson, which has been producing art paper for over 450 years and offers a variety of drawing papers that work well for graphite and charcoal.

Other brands that are worth considering include Fabriano, which offers a range of drawing papers that are ideal for both graphite and charcoal, and Winsor & Newton, which produces a variety of drawing papers specifically designed to work well with charcoal. Ultimately, the best paper for graphite and charcoal drawing will depend on your personal preferences and the type of artwork you are creating. It's important to experiment with different papers to find the one that works best for your unique style and techniques.

Can sketch paper be used for finished graphite and charcoal drawings?

Sketch paper can be used for finished graphite and charcoal drawings, but it may not provide the same level of quality and longevity as other types of paper specifically designed for finished artwork. Sketch paper is generally lighter weight and has a rougher texture, which can make it more suitable for quick sketches and studies rather than finished pieces.

However, if you are working with graphite or charcoal and prefer the texture of sketch paper, there are ways to preserve your work. One option is to use a fixative spray to help protect the drawing from smudging and fading over time. Another option is to use a higher quality sketch paper, such as a heavier weight or one specifically designed for finished artwork, which may provide better results.

Ultimately, the choice of paper depends on personal preference and the desired outcome of the artwork. It's always a good idea to experiment with different types of paper and techniques to find what works best for you and your art.

Can watercolor paper be used for graphite and charcoal drawing?

Yes, watercolor paper can be used for graphite and charcoal drawing. Watercolor paper is a versatile type of paper that can handle many different mediums, including graphite and charcoal. The texture of watercolor paper is often coarser than other types of paper, which can create interesting effects when drawing with graphite or charcoal. The texture can also help to hold the graphite or charcoal particles in place, making the drawing less likely to smudge or blur.

When using watercolor paper for graphite or charcoal drawing, it's important to consider the weight of the paper. Heavier paper is better suited for charcoal drawing, as it can handle the pressure of the medium without tearing or buckling. Lighter weight paper is better suited for graphite drawing, as it allows for greater detail and precision.

Overall, watercolor paper is a great choice for artists who want to experiment with different mediums and textures in their drawings. With its versatility and durability, it can help artists achieve unique and interesting effects in their work.

How does the paper's tooth affect the quality of graphite and charcoal drawings?

The paper's tooth, or texture, plays a crucial role in the quality of graphite and charcoal drawings. A paper with a high tooth will allow the medium to adhere better and produce a richer, darker tone. On the other hand, a smooth paper will create a lighter and more even tone with less texture.

For graphite, a paper with a high tooth is ideal because it allows for more variation in line weight and shading. The texture of the paper will grip the graphite particles, allowing for a greater range of values. A smooth paper is better for detailed work and precision.

Charcoal, on the other hand, requires a paper with a slightly lower tooth than graphite. Too much texture can cause the charcoal to smudge and blend too easily, resulting in a loss of detail. A slightly smoother paper will allow for greater control over the medium and create a wider range of values.

Ultimately, the choice of paper tooth depends on the artist's preferences and the effect they want to achieve in their drawing. It is essential to experiment with different papers and find the one that works best for each drawing.

Is it better to use a high-quality paper or a low-quality paper for graphite and charcoal drawing?

When it comes to graphite and charcoal drawing, the quality of paper you choose can greatly impact the final result. Generally speaking, it is better to use a high-quality paper for these mediums.

High-quality paper, such as acid-free or archival paper, is designed to resist yellowing and deterioration over time. It also has a smooth surface that allows the graphite and charcoal to glide easily across the page, resulting in smoother and more even lines. Additionally, high-quality paper is often thicker and more durable, allowing you to layer and blend your drawings without worrying about the paper tearing or smudging.

On the other hand, low-quality paper can have a rough or inconsistent surface that can make it difficult to achieve the desired effect. It may also be more prone to smudging or tearing, which can be frustrating when working on a detailed drawing.

Of course, the type of paper you choose ultimately depends on your personal preference and the effect you are trying to achieve. However, if you want to create a high-quality, long-lasting drawing, investing in a good quality paper is a wise choice.

Is it necessary to use acid-free paper for graphite and charcoal drawings?

Yes, it is necessary to use acid-free paper for graphite and charcoal drawings if you want your artwork to last for a long time without yellowing or deteriorating. Acidic paper contains lignin, a natural component of wood that makes paper brittle over time. When the paper deteriorates, it can cause the graphite or charcoal to smudge or become discolored, ruining the artwork.

Acid-free paper, on the other hand, is treated with alkaline compounds that neutralize the acid in the paper, making it more durable and resistant to yellowing and deterioration. It is also more expensive than regular paper, but it is well worth the investment if you want your artwork to last for generations.

In addition to using acid-free paper, it is also recommended to store your artwork in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity to further preserve it.

What is the difference between hot-pressed and cold-pressed paper for graphite and charcoal drawing?

The primary difference between hot-pressed and cold-pressed paper for graphite and charcoal drawing is the surface texture. Hot-pressed paper is smoother and has a more uniform surface, while cold-pressed paper has a rougher texture with visible tooth.

Hot-pressed paper is ideal for detailed and precise drawings as it allows for fine lines and delicate shading. It also works well for graphite and charcoal drawings that require a high level of realism. However, it can be challenging to blend and layer colors on hot-pressed paper due to its smooth surface.

On the other hand, cold-pressed paper is better suited for expressive and textured drawings as it provides a more tactile surface for the medium to grab onto. Charcoal and graphite drawings on cold-pressed paper have a more organic and natural feel due to the paper's toothy texture. It also allows for easier blending and layering of colors.

Ultimately, the choice between hot-pressed and cold-pressed paper depends on the artist's preference and the effect they want to achieve in their drawing. It's essential to experiment with both types of paper to determine which one works best for your style and technique.

What is the ideal weight for paper used for graphite and charcoal drawing?

Choosing the right paper weight for graphite and charcoal drawing is crucial for achieving the desired results. The ideal weight for paper used for graphite and charcoal drawing is between 80 to 120 pounds. This weight range provides the right texture and thickness that is required for these mediums. The texture of the paper should be able to hold the graphite or charcoal particles without smudging or blurring. Additionally, the paper must not be too thin as it can easily tear or crumple when working with these mediums. It is also recommended to use acid-free paper as it is durable and prevents yellowing over time. Ultimately, the choice of paper weight depends on personal preference and the desired outcome. It is advisable to experiment with different paper weights to determine the one that works best for your style and technique.

What is the surface texture that works best for graphite and charcoal drawing?

The best surface texture for graphite and charcoal drawing is one that provides enough tooth or texture to hold the medium in place, while still allowing for smooth and even shading. Generally, paper with a rough or medium texture, such as cold-pressed watercolor paper or drawing paper, works best for these types of drawings. The tooth of the paper helps the graphite or charcoal to adhere to the surface, allowing for more control and depth in the artwork. Additionally, some artists prefer to use toned paper, such as gray or beige, as it can add depth and dimensionality to the drawing. Ultimately, the choice of surface texture will depend on personal preference and the desired effect for the artwork. It is important to experiment with different surfaces to discover which works best for your individual style and techniques.

What type of paper is best for graphite and charcoal drawing?

When it comes to graphite and charcoal drawing, the type of paper you use can make a significant difference in the final outcome of your artwork. The best paper for graphite and charcoal drawing is one that has a slightly rough surface, known as tooth, to hold the graphite or charcoal particles in place and prevent smudging.

One popular option is drawing paper, which is specifically designed to handle dry media such as charcoal and graphite. Another option is bristol paper, which is a heavyweight paper that has a smooth surface and is ideal for detailed drawings. Some artists prefer using toned paper, which has a mid-tone color and allows for a wider range of values to be created with graphite or charcoal.

Ultimately, the best paper for graphite and charcoal drawing depends on personal preference and the specific techniques and effects you want to achieve in your artwork. It is important to experiment with different types of paper to find the one that suits your style and needs best.

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