Graphic Arts Papers

The Graphic Arts papers are designed to meet the needs of technical drawing, illustration, design, and precision work. Each medium has specific properties depending on the tool used: paper for markers and felt pens, layout paper, tracing paper, carbon paper, foam board, gray board, or blotting paper. By choosing the appropriate medium, you achieve sharper lines, better ink control, and a more precise finish. Find quality papers at low prices all year round.

Which paper to choose based on your tools?

Each paper is designed for a specific use.

• The layout papers and other papers for markers have a very smooth surface that facilitates the glide of precision felt pens and alcohol markers. They limit ink diffusion and allow for even fills and more uniform gradients. Technical pens perform best on smooth paper, which enhances the glide of the tip and ensures consistent lines.
• The tracing paper is ideal for reproducing a drawing, preparing a composition, or creating overlays. It is primarily used with a quality HB graphite pencil.
• The carbon paper makes it easy to transfer a design onto different media without redrawing it.
• The foam board offers an excellent balance between lightness and rigidity. It is ideal for models, presentations, or display boards.
• The gray board provides excellent support for projects requiring a more durable medium.

Which paper to use with markers and felt pens?

Water-based felt pens generally do not bleed through quality paper. Alcohol markers, on the other hand, diffuse their ink more to achieve uniform fills. On standard paper, they may bleed through or cause smudging. Papers specifically designed for markers, such as layout paper, limit these issues due to their smooth and less absorbent surface. They also help preserve colors better and allow for cleaner blends. The blotting paper is designed to quickly absorb excess ink to prevent smudging during certain graphic or writing tasks. If you use paint markers like POSCA, choose a sufficiently smooth paper for illustrations. For decoration projects, these markers can also be used on many other surfaces.

Technical supports for illustrating, presenting, and creating

Graphic Arts papers support many practices: illustration, manga, architecture, design, calligraphy, technical drawing, or model making. Choosing the right medium enhances the precision of the work, facilitates the use of different tools, and contributes to a more polished result.

FAQ

Which paper to use with alcohol markers?

Alcohol markers yield the best results on paper specifically designed for this technique, such as layout paper. Its smooth surface limits ink diffusion, improves gradients, and reduces the risk of bleed-through.

Is tracing paper suitable for felt pens?

Tracing paper is suitable for graphite pencils, fine-tipped felt pens, and technical pens. Alcohol markers, however, are not recommended as their ink easily bleeds through this type of medium.

What is carbon paper used for?

Carbon paper allows for the quick transfer of a drawing or design onto another medium. It is particularly useful for reproducing a visual before coloring or painting it.

Discover our other creative supports

If you are looking for a medium for graphite, charcoal, sanguine, or chalk, explore our drawing papers & sketchbooks. If you need versatile paper to work with multiple techniques on the same sheet, check out our multi-technique papers. Are you working with a pen or brush? Also discover our Fine Arts inks, perfect for drawing, calligraphy, illustration, or washes. Now is the time to prepare for your Art return with supplies suited to each technique, always at low prices throughout the year.