BAOHONG Artists' Watercolor Paper Block (20 Sheets, glued on Four Edges), 100% Cotton, Acid-Free, 140LB/300GSM, Watercolor Art Supplies for Wet, Dry, and Mixed Media Painting (Hot Press 4.9"X7")

Good paper, but I don’t care for the block format.

Great quality paper! I prefer the hot pressed, which has a smith, satin-like finish. I like to do mixed media watercolor, using pens, pencils (which I used some in the attached quick painting), and I find it’s easier to get the effect I am after by using hot pressed, 100% cotton paper, which this is. Baohong has really made a name for themselves in the watercolor paper market, and is popular among many artists. It’s easy to see why. In my opinion, they are competition for Arches, which is a high end brand of watercolor paper. To be honest, I don’t see much difference - maybe it’s me. I like that this paper comes on a bloc, which is makes for a more enjoyable painting experience, as you don’t need to worry about taping your paper or stretching.

Halfway through the block I started seeing very noticeable watermarking stamps. A painting is completely unsellable with baohong stamped across the paper. I'll still use it for practice, but not for sale. Sad because its a very good paper, smooth and a paints well...except where it says baohong.

I have used Waterford, Arches and Baohong in this past years. From the three, Arches is the one I prefer, but Baohong came second pretty close. It holds water like a charm, the texture is great for those dry on dry marks and it's a little cheaper than the first two. Just remember, there's is the academic line, which is cheaper but not as good. Give it a try and you will not regret it.

New Holy Grail of papers! For half the Price of Arches! Good bye Archies!