Feuilles- Bockingford

Artists use paper sheets for their versatility and compatibility with a wide range of materials, such as pencils, inks, paints, and pastels. Paper sheets are ideal for studies, sketches, and finished artworks.

Available in various sizes, from small sheets for quick sketches to large formats for expansive compositions, paper sheets are an essential resource for artists seeking flexibility in their practice.

‘Loose sheets and rolls provide an excellent way of working on a larger scale. They are often useful for artists who wish to complete a final work of art in a range of drawing materials.

Artists looking for a more traditional feel might choose to work with loose deckled-edge sheets as they provide an irregular hand-torn appearance.’

Art Paper Sizes and Formats, Jackson’s Art Blog. From Jackson’s Paper Guide.

The history of paper dates back to ancient Egypt, where papyrus served as an early writing surface. Paper that more closely resembles modern paper originated in China around 105 CE, evolving through centuries to support fine art.

By the 19th century, industrial papermaking enabled mass production, while handmade fine art paper retained its status for professional use. Artists such as Albrecht Dürer and J.M.W. Turner relied on the finest quality paper sheets for their artworks, showcasing paper’s enduring importance throughout history.

Learn more about the History of Paper on Jackson's Art Blog.

At Jackson’s Art Supplies, we offer an extensive range of paper for artists, including fine art paper from trusted brands like Arches, Canson, and Fabriano. Our carefully curated collection caters to every medium and technique, with options for watercolour, sketching, printmaking, and more.

Backed by a 4.8-star Trustpilot rating, we provide exceptional service, fast delivery, and eco-friendly packaging. Explore our high quality artwork paper today and elevate your creative projects.

Shop Paper Sheets for Fine Art

Discover our premium selection of artwork paper at Jackson’s Art Supplies. Whether you’re sketching, painting, or experimenting with mixed media, we have the perfect paper sheets to suit your needs. Browse our range online and visit our Contact Us and Help & Advice pages for expert guidance.

What Sizes are Available?

Paper sheets come in sizes ranging from small 4 x 6 inch sheets to large rolls measuring up to 5 x 33 ft. Whether you need compact sheets for sketches or expansive surfaces for large-scale works, Jackson’s offers a wide selection, including our bespoke paper-cutting service.

What Kind of Art Materials Can I Use on Paper Sheets?

Paper sheets can be used with a wide variety of media, including watercolour paints, oils, acrylics, pastels, inks, and pencils. Use our filtering options to find paper tailored to your preferred techniques and brands, whether for drawing, printmaking, or calligraphy.

You can also explore our curated categories, Watercolour Paper and Printmaking Paper.

Does The Quality of Paper Sheets Make a Difference?

Yes, high quality art paper ensures better absorption and durability, enhancing the vibrancy of colours. The best fine art papers are designed for specific media, offering consistent results and longevity. This makes them an essential choice for professional artists.

The importance of using the best quality paper is less so for preparatory sketches or rough works. These pieces are often created to explore ideas, compositions, or techniques rather than serve as final works. That said, practising on the same high quality materials you plan to use for finished pieces can help you better understand how your chosen medium interacts with the surface.

Why is the Weight of Paper Sheets Important?

The weight of paper sheets determines their strength and suitability for different media. Heavyweight paper is ideal for wet techniques like watercolour and gouache, while lighter paper works best for dry media such as pencil or charcoal.

To learn more, read ‘How Paper Weight is Measured’ on Jackson’s Art Blog.

What are Some of the Different Textures Available?

Textures range from smooth (hot press) for fine details to rough (cold press) for looser or more gestural painting styles. Toothed paper is perfect for pastels, while smooth, gloss surfaces enhance vibrancy. Each texture supports unique artistic effects.

Read ‘Art Paper Textures on Jackson’s Art Blog to learn more.

What are the Best Art Paper Sheets for Oil Painting?

While canvas is common, many artists prefer heavyweight, primed paper sheets for oil painting. Popular ranges include Arches Huile, Fabriano Tela, and our Jackson’s Oil Colour Paper.

What are the Best Art Paper Sheets for Sketching?

Smooth or lightly textured paper is ideal for sketching, providing precision and clean lines. Medium-weight sheets can also handle repeated erasing and blending. Some of the finest papermakers for sketching paper include Fabriano, Hahnemühle, and Stonehenge from Legion.

Are There Vegan Paper Sheets Available?

Yes, several brands offer vegan-friendly paper sheets, made without animal-derived sizing. Browse options from Bockingford, Canson, Fabriano, and other trusted manufacturers.

Which Brands Are Available?

We offer one of the widest ranges of fine art paper available to artists. For watercolour, Arches, Saunders Waterford, and Bockingford are popular choices. Most papermakers make papers suitable for sketching. Some of the most popular include Fabriano and Hahnemühle.

Printmakers use a wide range of papers depending on their technique, from BFK Rives and Somerset to delicate Washi papers for mokuhanga. For mixed media and collage, Canson and Stonehenge are popular.