Most artists love the feel of painting on canvas — it’s sturdy, forgiving, and holds paint beautifully.
But here’s the secret: you can get stunning results painting on paper too.
Painting on paper can be cheaper, easier to frame, and perfect for quick studies or finished artworks. The key is knowing the right kind of paper and how to prepare it. Let’s go step-by-step so your paper paintings stay flat, vibrant, and professional-looking
1. Choose the Right Paper Weight 📏
Not all paper is created equal.
When working with acrylic paint, thicker is better. Look for:
- 300 gsm / 140 lb or higher
- Cold-pressed for more texture, hot-pressed for a smoother surface
For reference: regular printer paper is only 20–30 lb — way too thin for acrylics.
Pro Tip: If you’re not sure your paper is thick enough, test it with a small painted patch. If it warps, it’s not suitable.
2. Understand Hot vs. Cold Press 🧾
- Cold-Pressed: Slight texture, good for expressive brushwork and layered painting.
- Hot-Pressed: Smooth surface, ideal for fine detail work and clean edges.
For acrylic painting, 300–350 gsm cold-pressed paper is a safe choice for most projects
3. Tape the Edges to Prevent Warping 🎯
Even with heavy paper, acrylic paint can cause curling.
Before painting, tape down all edges with painter’s tape or low-tack artist tape. This:
- Keeps the paper flat while you work
- Leaves a clean, professional white border when removed
Warning: Always peel tape off slowly and at an angle to avoid tearing fibers, especially with cold-pressed paper.
4. Extra Tips for Success 💡
- Card stock works for light crafts but not for layered acrylic paintings.
- Always paint on a flat, stable surface.
Store finished paper paintings flat or in a frame to prevent bending
Final Thoughts
Painting on paper can be a game-changer for your art practice. It’s affordable, easy to store, and great for experimenting with new ideas. Just remember: choose the right thickness, prep it properly, and protect the edges — and your acrylic paintings will look just as good as if they were on canvas.
