Watercolor Painting on Hot Press Paper

I didn’t mean to start painting on hot press paper.

In fact, I never planned on painting on anything other than cold press. I liked the texture of cold press and was a little too uncertain about doing anything else. I felt intimidated by hot press paper, but now I can’t even recall why.

I went to Hobby Lobby last week and picked up some frames and extra paper. Unbeknownst to me, I accidently grabbed hot press paper instead of cold press. (That is why one should not talk on the phone while shopping. Too distracted.) Didn’t even realize it until I went to the art room to start painting and there I was, looking at hot press paper and not really sure how to proceed.

Proceed I did. After a little bit of arguing with myself….

“I should just return it.”

“No. Maybe I should try it.”

“No. I’ll return it.”

“Hmmm. Why not try it?”

And try it I did!!!

Guess what? I loved it!!! I could not, and am still shocked, at how more vibrant the colors are. The control and flow of the paint is beautiful.

I have had to rethink how I mix the paints and figure out how wet or dry I want the paper, but overall, I am pleased. I don’t think I will go back to cold press. I am sold.

How about you? Any thoughts on which watercolor paper you prefer?