The Importance of Using a High-Quality Watercolour Journal
Not all watercolour journals are created equal. If you’ve ever struggled with washes that won’t blend, edges that bleed or colours that dull, you’re not alone. The paper you use in your journal plays a huge role in how your paintings turn out. For watercolour artists - beginners and pros alike - a good-quality journal can transform your practice sessions and build your confidence.
That’s why I’m so excited to introduce the watercolour fat pad I’ve created in collaboration with Jackson’s Art Supplies. This A4 size pad features Fabriano Artistico 100% cotton cold-pressed paper, which I believe is a game-changer for beginners and seasoned artists alike.
Fabriano Artistico Fat Pad: Spiral Bound – 100% Cotton, 300gsm – A4
Why 100% Cotton Watercolour Paper is a Must-Have for Watercolour Artists
Using 100% cotton watercolour paper isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential for anyone wanting to learn and improve. Cotton paper handles water beautifully, allowing your washes to flow and your layers to build without frustration. Practising on high-quality paper means you can focus on refining your technique rather than battling against paper that won’t hold washes properly.
If you’re just starting out and using a sketchbook that doesn't contain 100% cotton, you might find yourself frustrated with uneven washes or colours that don’t blend as expected. It’s easy to assume the problem lies with your skills and give up on watercolour altogether, but often, it’s simply the paper holding you back. Starting with good-quality materials can make all the difference in your watercolour journey.
The paper in my fat pad is 100% cotton, mould-made watercolour paper of the highest quality. It’s chlorine and acid-free, ensuring your artwork will stand the test of time without yellowing or deteriorating. This traditional white paper is sized both internally and externally, giving it the perfect balance of absorbency and durability. It’s robust enough to handle techniques like rubbing, scratching, and lifting, making it ideal for experimentation and practice. I've chosen cold press paper over hot press paper because its lightly textured surface is more forgiving to paint on, making it easier to control washes and achieve smooth transitions. It’s also versatile enough to suit a variety of techniques, offering a great balance between detail and the natural flow of watercolour. This makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced artists.
The Benefits of Doing Small Studies in Watercolour Sketchbooks
I love using watercolour sketchbooks for small studies. They’re perfect for experimenting with colours and working out compositions before committing to a larger painting. These quick studies not only help me refine my ideas but also build my confidence, knowing I’ve tested my approach beforehand. A journal becomes a safe space to explore and make mistakes without pressure.
Why My Fat Pad is Spiral Bound
Stretching watercolour paper from a bound journal isn’t possible, and since wet watercolour paper naturally buckles and puckers when not stretched, this can be a challenge. That’s why I decided my fat pad should have a spiral binding. If you prefer to practise on flat, stretched paper, you can simply tear or cut a page from the pad. It offers the flexibility to explore different techniques without limitations.
When working directly in the pad, I find that using bulldog clips clamped to the edges of the paper helps keep it flatter while painting. It’s a simple trick that makes the process more manageable and allows you to focus on your artwork without worrying about buckling paper.
Versatile for Watercolour and Mixed Media
While the fat pad is designed for watercolour, its high-quality 100% cotton paper makes it versatile enough for mixed media too. The durable surface handles techniques like ink, gouache, and even light layers of coloured pencil or pastel, giving you endless creative possibilities.
If you’re looking for a high-quality watercolour journal or sketchbook that’s versatile, durable, and artist-friendly, my fat pad is the perfect choice. It offers the flexibility to practise techniques, experiment with mixed media, and plan larger works - all with the reliability of premium materials. Give it a try and see the difference it makes in your creative journey!
If you are interested in learning to paint in watercolour, I have over 200 online, voiced over watercolour tutorials for all skill levels.
