I had several questions about what papers to use for the Nature Spots Challenge so I thought I’d write up a quick blog post.
- Legion Stonehenge paper pads are a great way to try out different types of paper — hot press, cold press, thicker paper, etc. They’re 2-1/2” x 3-3/4.
- Case For Making’s tiny paper packs are so fun and come in a letterpress carrying case.
- Trim your own papers out of scraps you have from other projects.
- Make a mini accordion book out of your favorite watercolor paper — this one is made out of 140# Arches cold press. A hair tie or rubber band will hold it together. Here’s a quick tutorial here on my website.
- Last but not least, my favorite mini zigzag book from Hahnemuehle! I love taking these on hikes and filling them up as I go! I got mine here at Art Toolkit.
See this post for full details on the Nature Spots Challenge, starting January 1st! Hope you’ll join the fun! — Lisa
2 Comments
Bob Cochran · December 28, 2022 at 5:32 pm
Thank you so much for this post, Lisa! I see the Nature Spots Challenge as a great way to try out different papers, and this post helps me with “thinking paper”.
In some workplaces, it is possible to find very large paper cutters — not scissors, but an off-green colored metal platform with a large cutting blade on the right edge that can be used for precisely cutting papers of various weights. My employers office seems to have one of these cutting machines everywhere. They are probably great for cutting watercolor paper. I tend to feel like they are safer than scissors, too. (Always watch your fingers!) You can bring a couple sheets of watercolor paper and cut them up into manageable squares quickly and easily. You can also cut them into differently sized squares so you can experiment and see which size you prefer given your own unique painting equipment and preferences. I hope this suggestion helps someone. ….Bob
Lisa Spangler · December 28, 2022 at 7:52 pm
Hi Bob! Great suggestion! I’ve also found that tearing watercolor paper is a great way to get smaller pieces — no sharp equipment required and it gives a neat edge.
Here’s a link to a video that Maria from Art Toolkit did that’s really helpful:
https://expeditionaryart.com/blog/2014/03/tearing-paper/