You are looking at two graphite drawings. Both are impressive and well made but one of them appears to stand out more with charm and depth than the other. How come? Well, it’s not so much to do with the skill of the artist or the quality of graphite pencils, but rather the paper. This story aptly demonstrates why it is so important to select appropriate paper for your graphite drawing – it’s not just another processor step, but an aspect that allows attaining greatness.
Core of any our work lies within and is well summarized with a line one mentioned – ‘all paper is dry mountexample. The type of paper you use such as watercolor paper for multi-technique works or a smooth surface paper for detailed pencil work will alter your drawing experience entirely. This change isn’t just about the end result in terms of how the drawing appears, but rather how the paper, your graphite and the entire stroke interact with each other and how it gets complemented as an artwork at the end.
We would describe the qualitative and quantitative properties like the drawing paper’s weights and textures along with graphite. Our objective is not only for pedagogical purposes but also for the better approach to the fact that how papers do better to one’s art. Paper in conclusions allows you a swishing way of rendering an overall picture with the ability to create better chances and more secure outlook for your drawings.
Why does paper matter in graphite drawings?
Every wonderful graphite drawing has, as its base, paper which harmonizes with the medium perfectly. The right kind of paper is an engraving, it does not only act as a base but also makes the work exceptional as it allows a variety of shading as well as more detailed works which would not be achieved in a lower quality base. This is why it is very important to choose a paper, it is about finding a suitable creative partner that would complement your pencils all the best.
As an illustration, one might put it this way: imagine papers as canvases and graphite pencils as paints. Oil paints and watercolors are so different that they need distinct textures and preparations for the canvas, something similar applies to the pencils. Smooth quality papers do good on intricate detailing and very fine shading, much like oil paints work best on a highly prepped canvas. On the other hand, textured paper does make a difference in a drawing very similarly to how heavy watercolor will interact with watercolor paper.
Different Kinds of Papers
Choosing the kind of paper is a critical decision for every artist, especially those who use graphite. The nature of the paper determines not only the surface of your art but can also have a major impact on how the work itself is done and the way it turns out in the end. I think now it is important to ask, how do the technical details of weight, texture and colour of the paper enhance the drawings made using graphite.
Understanding Paper Weight
The weight of paper is an important consideration as it helps determine how a drawing will look and the hardness of it. Paper weight, which is expressed in GSM (grams per square meter), affects the degree of saturation, texture and opacity of paper. There are lightweight papers of around 60 – 90 GSM which are suitable for quick studies and working preliminarily. However, those papers do not stand up well enough to heavy layering or vigorous erasing.
In contrast, heavyweight papers which begin from 180 GSM and above are the best for graphite as they provide substance and weight that is required for detailed drawings. Their thickness and hefty construction permits a good number of graphite layers to be processed further without chances of the paper tearing or charring during the blending of tones.
Practical Tip: When choosing the paper weight, always factor in the project requirement. For designs that are elaborate and layered, heavier weight paper is ideal. But, if your work only includes light sketching or if you are going to only transfer your images, then a lighter paper shall work better. And remember, always look out for GSM’s because they are a great help in meeting the requirements of your art.
Exploring paper textures
The way your artwork is perceived is greatly impacted by the texture of the paper used. To put it simply, there are a few rough and few smooth surfaces which, combined offer various advantages. The smooth paper is most suited for artists intending to work on the graphite art because of the fine detail work because it is smooth and assists in fine shading as well as clear and sharp lines. This paper is most beneficial in the creation of pencil reputable drawings, where softness and accurate touch are combined.
On the other hand, rough textures have a grainy surface which allows the graphite to bite into the paper producing bold strokes and depth. For use, this texture is very good with charcoal and pastel where the graininess of the paper adds to the overall piece of art embracing its multi-dimensional feel.
Professional suggestion: Choose the right paper depending on the type of pencil drawing you plan on doing in order to get the best out of your graphite pencils. When you plan to apply complex textures or shading, using smooth surface paper is ideal. Textured paper will assist your drawing where there are more forceful and contrasting strokes.
The Paper’s Brightness and Colour
The tonal value and colour of the paper has an important role in the perception of your drawing. Most people use white paper whereas other colors such as beige and even colored paper can be used as alternatives. The paper prevents the artwork from yellowing or damage due to its archival quality and protecting nature.
Using different papers can add or lessen the mood of the drawing or the contrast of the drawing. Using warm colored paper may provide warmth to the drawing and lessen contrast of the drawing which would otherwise be haywire on a blank white sheet.
It’s even more important when the drawing incorporates ink or watercolor. The combination of mediums on differently colored paper can produce amazing results, increasing the limits of what is possible with pencils alone.
Suggestion: Play with paper colors. Beginning with a selection of off-white shades may be the right way to go, as the final piece would still look different, owing to the lower amount of color pressure used. Remember, the best finds often come from trying out new ideas.
Critical Aspects to Keep In Mind When Selecting Your Paper
Choosing the right paper for your graphite drawing is more than just spotting the first one you can get your hands on. It requires a deep understanding of several important aspects that will determine the appearance, the touch, the life span, and the compatibility with your drawing techniques. Let’s discuss the two most impacting factors: erasability and durability, compatibility with your drawing style, and the ongoing battle: price or quality.
Durability and Erasability
When it comes to drawing papers specific needs should be differentiated and one of them is durability and the ability to be erased several times, unlike normal printer paper. The reality is the artistic work is multidirectional in nature, hence the need for constant amendments and changes. A paper that pills or tears when one erases may not only spoil the artwork but also kill the inspiring moment from your creative energy.
Personal Anecdote: I remember a time when I had to work on a portrait, and there was a particular section that I had to erase N number of times just to get the shading right. I remember that I was using acid-free paper of good quality, so the paper did not wear out during the course of the project, and I was able to achieve the desired result without inflicting any damage to the surface. As a result, I now only use the best acid-free papers because I have made this part of my experience.
Even great painters have an inclination towards certain kinds of papers; they would most probably select quality papers that are of archival grade. The fact that one can erase and rub off and still the paper surface remains intact, speaks volumes about the quality of the paper and this is necessary for any serious artist.
Compatibility with Your Drawing Style.
There are various groups of artists; some push the pencil hard against the paper for thick lines, while others use a feather touch only to lightly shade. The more important point is that every artist will have their own peculiar drawing patterns, this will help with the selection of the appropriate paper.
Finding a perfect match involves trying different aspects. Every kind of paper, including Bristol, has its own qualities, which can help with your technique. For example, bristol paper has a smooth finish and is good for detailed pencil artists while charcoal paper has a rougher finish and is suitable for those who love heavy expressive strokes.
Advice: Work with as many papers as you can to see which one works for you. It takes time to find a good surface to work on but the journey itself is worth it so be patient. And don’t forget the paper you choose can take your piece of art from a wow to a double wow.
Cost vs Quality
Achieving your desired quality while keeping the cost of resources low is usually a tough exercise especially for people who are new to that craft. Most professional artists might prefer the likes of Strathmore because of its high archival quality, which then advantages a lot of brands, but it should also be recognized that there are alternatives even if the professional brands do cost more.
The objective is to strike a balance between the cost of the paper and how well the artwork is performed. Most companies sell student grades which are decent to those who just want to practice without spending too much on a higher quality premium grade.
Reflection: Although it is true that a more premium and more qualitative paper does get the job done with ease, it is also practical to start with cheaper grades as they do allow one to practice without the fear of wasting money. As one’s skills and perhaps style matures, it would be reasonable to switch to higher grade paper as it would improve the quality of one’s artwork and ensure its preservation for a long time.
Recommended Paper Brands for Graphite Drawing
Paper selection is important and sometimes an afterthought for any graphite artist, beginner or advanced level. The variety of products available today is abundant but unfortunately not all papers are good. Here, we discuss a selection of the most highly praised brands by the art community in terms of their suitability for graphite pencils – in other words, the ease with which they can be drawn on and their overall quality.
- Strathmore: According to consumers, Strathmore offers a comprehensive range of graphite paper types, including their popular 400 series. The popularity of this series is due to its core properties of texture and weight as it greatly facilitates the use of pencil for detailed work and shading. Besides, Strathmore’s watercolor paper is known to a number of mixed-media artists as a reliable sheet that withstands use on top of graphite drawings, without damaging the graphites drawing components.
- Fabriano: Looking for high quality watercolor and drawing papers, the Artistico and Studio lines from Fabriano’s range will also serve extraordinary quality for graphite drawing. The surfaces, according to the artists, are comfortable to use in graphite work owing to their sufficient hold and mild tooth needed for detailing. Being acid free assures your art pieces will last longer and be preserved.
- Canson: Canson offers a wide range of papers intended for any penmanship buyers level it can handle, where the more popular are the XL and Montval series for graphite and charcoal drawing specifically. The majority of artists who have used these papers claim they are quite versatile in the sense that they allow for detailing without being too smooth, and allow for expressiveness without being too coarse.
- Arches: While it is primarily known for water color papers, Arches also makes other kinds of paper that can be used for graphite drawings. This is so because their hot press water color paper has soft texture that makes it easy to create finely detailed graphite pencil drawings. Arches as a brand is valued by artists since it is understood that the material serves to preserve the work valuing art in the long run.
- Real-Life User Reviews: Artists tend to use these brands as they contribute greatly to the pencil drawing quality even with minimal strokes. Particularly many talk on how important the paper is for getting the expected results. As for example, the depth of shading and the thinness of lines drawings. Many reviewers also use these words in their observations ‘available in bulk’, or ‘the quality is exceptional’ or ‘the texture was just perfect’ due to the fundamental influence which such papers have on the resulting effect of the graphite artistic works.
FAQs
What is the best-weight paper for graphite pencils?
The optimum weight depends on the technique and style that you are using. Nonetheless, in terms of versatility for detailed work as well as durability, a paper weight of approximately 150 to 300 GSM will suffice.
How do I complete my graphite drawings using transfer paper?
To use the transfer paper, place the composition that you wish to transfer on top of the tracing paper face up. Using a pencil, trace it over, and make sure the graphite gets transferred, by pressing down firmly.
What should I file away and how do I keep my graphite drawings safe?
It is ideal to keep your artwork away from moisture, heat, and even exposure to sunlight, preferably inside an acid-free portfolio or sheets of acid-free paper to avoid yellowing and deterioration in the long run.
Conclusion
When you are working on your graphite drawings, be careful in your selection of the paper, it should not only focus on the current outcome, but also on the protection and survival of your images by meeting the desired choice. Through this post, we have investigated paper types, textures and weights, as well as discussed best manufacturers of papers designed for graphite working.
As you move forward in your art making experience, always keep the idea of trying out different things in mind. Whether it is hot pressed watercolor paper which has a rather smooth surface, or textured pastel paper that has a different end result – the right type of paper for your drawing involving graphite is definitely there. Let your artistic juices run wild and do not be afraid to get your hands dirty on different mediums until you find that precise surface that fits your artwork style.
Motivational Statement: Every journey begins with a holy paper grant, and one must remember it is a critical detail in one’s artwork. And this is the reason why for every journey you would embark on, it impacts the end result in various awesome ways. So, for those who are venture seeking, grab a blank page – and don’t worry about the process, you will find the right surface that you intend to.
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