Best Printmaking Paper of 2025

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Printmaking paper is a versatile and durable type of paper that is specifically designed for printmaking processes. This type of paper is available in various weights and textures, making it ideal for a range of printmaking techniques, including etching, lithography, and relief printing. The paper is typically made from high-quality materials, such as cotton or alpha cellulose, which ensures that it can withstand the pressure and moisture involved in the printmaking process. Additionally, printmaking paper is acid-free, which helps to prevent yellowing and deterioration over time, making it perfect for archival purposes. Overall, printmaking paper is an essential tool for any printmaker looking to produce high-quality prints that will stand the test of time.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Strathmore Printmaking Paper Pad 11"X14" Cover#TOP 1
Strathmore Printmaking Paper Pad 11"X14"
ftb score rating icon9.8
Strathmore 300 Series Printmaking Paper Pad Cover#TOP 2
Strathmore 300 Series Printmaking Paper Pad
ftb score rating icon9.7
Ucreate Printmaking Paper, 9"x12", White, 100 Sheet Cover#TOP 3
Ucreate Printmaking Paper, 9"x12", White, 100 Sheet
ftb score rating icon9.5

Top 10 Printmaking Paper

#TOP 1

Strathmore Printmaking Paper Pad 11"X14"

P433-11
BROWN
11x14
Strathmore Printmaking Paper Pad 11"X14" Cover
Strathmore Printmaking Paper Pad 11"X14"-15 Sheets -62433110, BROWN
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

Strathmore Printmaking Paper is a heavyweight pad designed for mastering printmaking techniques. The textured finish of the paper enhances your prints, offering a professional touch to your artwork. The United States-manufactured pad provides durability and quality for your creative projects. Ideal for artists looking to experiment with different printmaking methods, this paper pad offers a reliable surface to bring your artistic visions to life.

What We Like
Thick, high-quality paper
Excellent for ecoprints
Absorbs dyes and pigments well
Good for greeting cards
Superior to other papers
What We Don't Like
Damaged packaging reported
#TOP 2

Strathmore 300 Series Printmaking Paper Pad

P333-5
White
Strathmore 300 Series Printmaking Paper Pad Cover
Strathmore 300 Series Printmaking Paper Pad, Glue Bound, 5x7 inches, 40 Sheets (120g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students - Block Printing, Linocut, Screen Printing, White
ftb score rating icon9.7
FTB Score

The Strathmore Printmaking Paper is an excellent choice for artists and students alike. This lightweight paper, with a natural color, is ideal for various printing techniques, including relief and screen printing. Its medium textured surface is soft yet durable, making it perfect for practicing and proofing your designs. At 120 gsm, the paper is absorbent, allowing for clean and crisp results. With its convenient 5"x7" glue-bound format and 40 sheets per pad, you have plenty of space to explore your creativity without running out of materials too quickly.

What We Like
Exceptional quality and versatility
Smooth texture for flawless ink transfer
Holds ink beautifully
Ample space for techniques
Durable with no bleeding
What We Don't Like
Not very thick
#TOP 3

Ucreate Printmaking Paper, 9"x12", White, 100 Sheet

9001
White
9" x 12"
Ucreate Printmaking Paper, 9"x12", White, 100 Sheet Cover
UCreate Printmaking Paper, White, 9" x 12", 100 Sheets
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

The Ucreate Printmaking Paper is a perfect choice for beginners and experienced artists. Its heavyweight paper is acid-free, which makes it durable and long-lasting. The pack contains 100 sheets, which is ideal for classroom use. This printmaking paper is suitable for block printing, relief printing, and other types of printmaking.

What We Like
Economical for experimentation
Good weight and finish
Acceptable for kids crafts
Prints well with Speedball ink
What We Don't Like
Lightweight paper
Not suitable for all prints
#TOP 4

Richeson Printmaking Paper, 50 Sheets

100758
9-x-12-Inch
Richeson Printmaking Paper, 50 Sheets Cover
Richeson Printmaking Paper, 88# 12x9 inches, 50 Sheets (100758)
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

This Richeson printmaking paper pad features 50 sheets of medium textured paper that is perfect for relief printing. The paper is lightweight and gluebound, with a weight of 88 lbs. The pad measures 12 x 9 inches, making it easy to handle and store.

What We Like
High quality and thickness
Sturdy and smooth texture
Versatile for wet and dry media
Great for printmaking techniques
Budget-friendly for educational use
What We Don't Like
Occasional packaging errors
#TOP 5

Speedball Printmaster Paper

SP4320
Yellow
9"x12" - 50 Sheets
Speedball Printmaster Paper Cover
Speedball Printmaster Paper, 9"x12", 50-Sheets, 70lb, 104gsm for Block and Relief Printmaking, Ideal for Students and Everyday Use
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

Speedball Print Paper is perfect for your printmaking needs. It offers archival quality, ensuring your prints won't yellow over time. The lightweight 70lb, 104gsm paper is ideal for everyday techniques. Specifically designed for relief lino and linocut printmaking, it's also great for proofing and screen printing. With pre-cut sheets in various sizes, including 9x12", 12x18", and 18x24", this paper is convenient for students and artists alike.

What We Like
High-quality printmaking paper
Crisp image reproduction
Versatile for multiple media
Strong and absorbent
Affordable in large sizes
What We Don't Like
Pricey for some users
Thin for certain applications
#TOP 6

RIVES BFK White Printmaking Paper

3700417100474
White
RIVES BFK White Printmaking Paper Cover
Rives BFK White- Pack of Five 22x30 Inch Sheets
ftb score rating icon9.0
FTB Score

RIVES BFK White is a pack of 5 printmaking papers made of 100% cotton and moulded in France. It has a softly textured surface, 2 natural deckles, and 2 tear deckles, making it perfect for all printmaking techniques. Additionally, it can be used for drawing with dry media. The paper is exceptionally bright, which makes it an ideal choice for creating crisp black and white prints.

What We Like
High quality, acid-free paper
Good tooth for various mediums
Durable and long-lasting
Great for printmaking techniques
Soft surface for watercolor
What We Don't Like
Packaging mishandling issues
Potential for minor surface damage
#TOP 7

Jack Richeson Printmaking Paper

100757
6-x-9-Inch
Jack Richeson Printmaking Paper Cover
Richeson Printmaking Paper, 88# 6x9 inches, 50 Sheets (100757)
ftb score rating icon9.0
FTB Score

Richeson Printmaking Paper, also known as Richeson Printmaking Paper, is a lightweight pad with medium texture designed for relief printing. With 50 sheets in a gluebound 6x9 inches pad, this 88 lbs paper offers convenience for your printmaking projects. The medium texture provides a good surface for achieving intricate relief prints. The lightweight feature makes it easy to handle and transport, ideal for artists on the go.

What We Like
Great for printmaking
High-quality paper
Fast shipping option
What We Don't Like
Potential quality issues from Amazon
Creased corners on pages
#TOP 8

Speedball Arnhem 1618 Printmaking Paper Pad

7090
White
8.5" X 11"
Speedball Arnhem 1618 Printmaking Paper Pad Cover
Speedball 7091 Arnhem 1618 Printmaking Paper Pad
ftb score rating icon8.8
FTB Score

The Speedball Printmaking Paper offers exceptional quality for your artistic needs. Made from 100% cotton rag, this paper is acid-free, ensuring your prints last without fading or deteriorating. Its subtle grain and vellum finish provide a smooth surface, perfect for detailed work. You can use it damp or dry, making it strong and absorbent for various printmaking techniques. Plus, it's versatile enough to accommodate different media, allowing you to explore your creativity beyond just printmaking. With 20 sheets in an 8.5 x 11-inch pad, this paper is ready for all your projects.

What We Like
High-quality paper
Luxurious smooth surface
Excellent for watercolor
Holds ink well
Clean page removal
What We Don't Like
Slight buckling observed
Some pages deformed
#TOP 9

Speedball Printmaking Paper Pad, 5" x 7"

7081
White
5" x 7"
Speedball Printmaking Paper Pad, 5" x 7" Cover
Speedball Printmaking Paper Pad 5x7, 20 Sheets
ftb score rating icon8.8
FTB Score

The Speedball Printmaking Paper Pad is a versatile product that can be used for all printmaking techniques, as well as pencils, colored pencils, and pen & ink. Its strong and absorbent quality make it suitable for use damp or dry, and it comes with 20 sheets of 5x7, 245gsm acid-free paper made from unbleached, alpha-cellulose fiber.

What We Like
Great for relief work
Nice thickness for ink drawings
Slightly warm off-white color
Good quality paper
What We Don't Like
Limited page count
Incorrect size received
#TOP 10

Strathmore 400 Series Mixed Media Paper

P462-511
Black
11x14
Strathmore 400 Series Mixed Media Paper Cover
Strathmore 400 Series Mixed Media Paper, Black, Glue Bound Pad, 11x14 inches, 15 Sheets (184lb/300g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students - Watercolor, Gouache, Graphite, Ink, Pencil, Marker
ftb score rating icon8.8
FTB Score

This heavyweight paper pad is perfect for both studies and finished artwork. The glue bound pads with easy-to-use flip over covers make it convenient to work on. Made in the US, it is suitable for watercolor, gouache, graphite, ink, pencil, and marker. The product dimension is 14.0"L x 11.0"W x 0.38"H.

What We Like
Perfect for on-the-go painting
Thick, sturdy paper
Versatile for various mediums
Great texture and color
No bleed-through with markers
What We Don't Like
Pages tear out easily
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What paper is used for printmaking?

For printmaking, papers like Arches Cover, Domestic Etch, and Copperplate are commonly used. If you are printing dry using a press, a soft and smooth paper such as Arches 88, Hosho, or Rives Lightweight is a good choice.

2. What is special about printmaking paper?

Printmaking paper is specifically designed to withstand soaking and absorb a lot of ink, even with multiple runs through a press. It does not disintegrate or deform easily, making it ideal for the printing process.

3. What is the difference between watercolor paper and printmaking paper?

Watercolor paper is generally thicker than printmaking paper, starting at 300gsm. It is also sized and has additional stiffness, which makes it suitable for watercolor painting. Printmaking paper focuses more on ink absorption and durability.

4. Can I use drawing paper for printmaking?

In theory, you can use any type of paper for printmaking as long as the ink adheres to it. However, the choice of paper becomes integral to your work, as each paper creates a unique contribution to the finished result.

5. How long do you soak printmaking paper?

To saturate the paper's fibers, it is recommended to soak printmaking paper for around 30 minutes. Heavier weight papers may require a longer soak. Some papers can handle being left in a water bath overnight.

6. What kind of paper do you use for ink art?

For ink art, smooth Bristol paper is ideal for pen and ink, airbrush, and detailed work with colored pencil or graphite. Vellum surface paper is suitable for graphite, charcoal, airbrush, pastel, crayon, colored pencil, and pen and ink.

Editor's Notes

During our printmaking paper research, we found 24 printmaking paper products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 34,119 customer reviews through our big data system to write the printmaking paper list. We found that most customers choose printmaking paper with an average price of $14.80.

The printmaking paper are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of printmaking paper, including Strathmore, UCREATE, Jack Richeson, Speedball, SENNELIER. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.

Printmaking Paper Comparison Table

#TOP1
Strathmore Printmaking Paper Pad 11"X14" Cover
#TOP2
Strathmore 300 Series Printmaking Paper Pad Cover
#TOP3
Ucreate Printmaking Paper, 9"x12", White, 100 Sheet Cover
#TOP4
Richeson Printmaking Paper, 50 Sheets Cover
#TOP5
Speedball Printmaster Paper Cover
#TOP6
RIVES BFK White Printmaking Paper Cover
#TOP7
Jack Richeson Printmaking Paper Cover
#TOP8
Speedball Arnhem 1618 Printmaking Paper Pad Cover
#TOP9
Speedball Printmaking Paper Pad, 5" x 7" Cover
#TOP10
Strathmore 400 Series Mixed Media Paper Cover
BrandStrathmoreStrathmoreUCREATEJack RichesonSpeedballSENNELIERJack RichesonSpeedballSpeedballStrathmore
Paper FinishSmoothMatteMatteUncoatedSmooth-Texture LaidMatteSmoothWatercolor
Item Weight1.19 Pounds4.8 ounces-1 pounds9.07 g-11.6 ounces14 ounces5.1 ounces0.62 Pounds
ColorBROWNWhiteWhite-Yellow--WhiteWhiteBlack
MaterialPaperPaperPaper---PaperPaperPaperPaper
Sheet Size11 x 145x7 inches9 x 12 Inches9 x 12 inchesLetter-6 x 9 inches--11 x 14
Sheet Count1540-50--50202015
Recommended Uses For ProductPrintmakingPrintmaking----PrintmakingPrintmakingDrawing, Sketching, CalligraphyPainting, Sketching, Watercolor, Drawing, Calligraphy, Coloring, Arts, Crafts
Unit Count1.0 Count1.0 Count----50.0 Count1.0 Count-15.0 Count
Global Trade Identification Number0001201743311500012017333057-----006510320709070065103207081500012017462115
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon9.8
ftb score rating icon9.7
ftb score rating icon9.5
ftb score rating icon9.3
ftb score rating icon9.2
ftb score rating icon9.0
ftb score rating icon9.0
ftb score rating icon8.8
ftb score rating icon8.8
ftb score rating icon8.8
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