Hey there, fellow coloring enthusiasts! 🎨 Have you ever stopped to think about the paper you use for your coloring pages when you print them on your home printer? If not, you’re not alone. I, too, used to overlook this crucial element in my coloring journey. But as I discovered, the right paper can make all the difference! Join me as we uncover the best paper choices for your coloring adventures, so you can make the most of your colored pencils. 🌈

Why Paper Matters 📜

Let’s start with the simple truth: even the best-colored pencils and alcohol markers won’t shine on terrible paper. For years, I made this rookie mistake, using standard printer paper for most of my drawings. I believed it was all about the pencils, markers, and practice. Little did I know that the right paper could elevate my artwork to new heights.

As soon as I invested in quality paper, I noticed a world of difference. My pencils and markers glided effortlessly, and coloring became an enjoyable breeze. Even budget-friendly pencils and markers performed better on quality paper. Today, I’m here to help you navigate the maze of paper choices and find the perfect canvas for your coloring pages! 🚀

How to Choose the Best Paper for Adult Coloring Pages 🧐

Before we dive into the world of paper, let’s consider a few essential factors:

1. Personal Preferences: 🎨 Every artist is unique, and your preferences will shape your paper choice. Your coloring technique, the brand of pencils or markers you use, and your style of art will influence your decision.

2. Mediums Matter: 🖍️ Consider the coloring mediums you plan to use – pencils and markers react differently to paper.

3. Printer Compatibility: 🖨️ If you’re printing coloring pages, ensure your paper works well with your printer.

4. Location and Budget: 🌍💲 Keep in mind that paper shipping costs can vary, so explore local art shops for recommendations if you’re in a location with limited options.

Once you’ve got these factors in mind, it’s time to explore different paper types and their unique characteristics. Let’s break it down! 📊

Paper Texture: The Toothy Tale 🦷

The texture of paper is a vital factor, especially when you’re using colored pencils. It’s the paper’s tooth, those tiny valleys and ridges in the texture, that allows you to build layers, blend colors, and create masterpiece-worthy art.

Smooth Texture: Ideal for markers and pen work, but not great for pastels or layered pencils. 🖊️

Medium Texture (Vellum Finish): A fantastic starting point for pencils – offers some texture without being too rough. ✏️

Rough Texture: Perfect for pastels or charcoals but may absorb too much marker ink and lead to excessive pencil use. 🎨

For pencil enthusiasts, a medium-textured paper is a great all-around choice. 🌟

Paper Weight: The Heavyweight Champ 🥊

Paper weight, measured in lbs or GSM (grams per square meter), plays a crucial role. Heavier paper, like Bristol, can handle more layers, markers, watercolor pencils, and other wet mediums. Here’s the scoop:

Standard Printer Paper: Around 80 GSM (20 lbs). 📄

Watercolor Paper: Often 200-300 GSM. 🌊

Thicker Paper: Durable and great for layering – the thicker, the better, as long as your printer can handle it. 💪

For printing coloring pages, strive to use paper as thick as your printer allows. Heavier paper offers a superior coloring experience and works well with all mediums. 🖼️

Printing: The Unsung Hero 🖨️

Printing your coloring pages can be a hurdle, but with the right approach, it becomes a breeze. Here are some printing tips to consider:

Know Your Printer: Find out what size paper your printer can handle. 🖨️

Avoid Cutting Down Paper: Cutting larger paper to size may lead to jams, so test it first. ✂️

Use a Flat Tray: If available, a flat or multipurpose tray handles thicker paper better than your regular printer tray. 📥

Paper Recommendations: Personal Favorites 📝

Now, let’s explore some of my personal favorite paper choices that will enhance your coloring experience.

Find Springhill Digital Bristol Cardstock Here on Amazon

Springhill Digital Vellum Bristol Cardstock: White

Texture: Vellum surface

Weight: 67 lb (Bleed proof for printing)

Excellent for coloring pages – compatible with both pencils and markers. 📄✏️

Find Neenah Bright White Cardstock Here On Amazon

Neenah Bright White Cardstock

Texture: Vellum surface

Weight: 65 lb, 147 GSM (Designed for printing)

Affordable, versatile, and perfect for both pencils and markers. 🌈

Markers and More: What’s Best for Markers? 🖌️

If markers are your main medium, consider papers designed specifically for markers, often labeled “bleed proof.” These papers offer a smooth surface, making them ideal for coloring with markers. I personally still use both the above recommended card stocks and place a second sheet of cardstock to soak up any bleed through!