Papel y cartulina - UART
Paper & Card: Popular Questions from Artists
What is art paper and card?
Art paper and card are essential materials for artists. They come in various textures, weights, and sizes, each suited to different art techniques.
Art paper is made by pulping plant fibres, often cotton or wood, then pressing and drying them into sheets. Card, being thicker and more rigid, is ideal for heavier media or projects that need durability.
Both art paper and card can be coated or uncoated. This affects how well they absorb ink, paint, or other materials. Artists select these based on their qualities, such as smoothness, absorbency, and durability.
Artists use paper and card because they offer a versatile and accessible surface for creating art. For painters and sketchers, they provide a portable, affordable, and easily replaceable medium. Paper and card come in various weights and textures, allowing artists to choose the surface that best suits their medium and style.
These materials can be used for everything from light sketches to heavy paint applications, making them ideal for practice, experimentation, and finished works. Their ease of use and adaptability make them a staple for artists everywhere.
"The production of today's extensive variety of art papers benefits from centuries of papermaking traditions, as well as state-of-the-art modern technologies. Set apart from low-cost mass production, artist papers are tailor-made to suit the working methods of modern artists. We believe that understanding the qualities of your paper will help you to get the very best results.” - Lisa Takahashi, Jackson's Art Supplies Expert
Artists have used paper for centuries. Papyrus was the first material to have many of the qualities we associate with paper today. It was invented by the Egyptians around 3000 BC.
Examples that resemble modern paper date back to ancient China, around 105 AD. Papermaking then spread to the Middle East and Europe, where it became a staple for artists in the Renaissance, who valued it for its affordability and versatility.
In the art world, paper provided a new, accessible medium for drawing, painting, and printmaking, as opposed to sculpture, ceramics, or metalwork. Today, paper continues to be a foundational element for artists worldwide, used in countless artistic practices.
For more information, read The History of Paper on Jackson’s Art Blog.
Jackson’s Art Supplies offers high quality paper and card from trusted papermakers such as Arches, Fabriano, Hahnemuehle and more. The range of acid-free, archival-grade papers are suitable for professional and beginner artists.
We are committed to providing our customers with the finest materials, backed by a 4.8-star Trustpilot rating. Browse our extensive collection and find the perfect paper and card for your next project.
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Ready to find the perfect paper for you? Browse our extensive range of paper, card, and board to start your creative journey today. Visit our Contact Us and Help & Advice pages if you need assistance.