Art is an important subject in schools all over the world. It provides children with the opportunity to be creative, and explore a more expressive way of learning.
But as many other subjects move towards a more digital approach, for art this isn’t possible as the paper is a crucial medium. This use of paper within art probably won’t ever change, but with advances in technology, the selection and variations of paper are now better than ever. With many more sustainable and environmentally friendly options available.
As either a primary or secondary school teacher, it can be difficult to understand the difference between these various types of paper, and what their uses are.
At Paper Plus, we always strive to ensure our customers find the exact product they're looking for, and it’s right for them. Below are a few things to keep in mind when selecting paper for your art lessons.
What to consider when buying paper for art:
The weight of the paper
Paper comes in a variety of weights, or gsm (grams per square metre). With standard copier paper being around 80gsm. Normally, the paper thickness is a result of the paper's weight, however with today’s technology, these two are not always related. Thickness is determined by the type of tree used to create the pulp, which then makes the paper. Heavier paper is more versatile and can be shaped, as well as drawn and painted on.
| Paper weight | Typical uses |
| 60-100gsm | The weight range of standard office white paper |
| 100-170gsm | More durable paper may be used for posters or leaflets |
| 170-200gsm | The midway point between paper and card, used for brochure covers and quality leaflets |
| 250-300gsm | This is now considered a card, suitable for exercise book covers |
| 350gsm+ | Typically used for business cards and other luxury papers used for drawing |
The texture of the paper
This refers to how rough or smooth the paper is, or in some cases, this is known as the ‘tooth’ of the paper, but this is more relevant when using art paper in degree-level education. The feel of the paper can create different results when using mediums. For example, when using chalks or charcoal, a finer texture of paper will allow for easier blending. But for acrylic paints, a middle textured paper would be more suitable, as the paint can easily adhere to the paper.
The thickness of the paper
Paper thickness is measured in microns (one-millionth of a metre). With a standard piece of white copier paper being around 100 microns thick. However, this is dependent on the type of tree used to produce the pulp which makes the paper. Thicker paper will have a high micron count and will feel more luxurious, but this then as a result is more expensive. But a higher micron count will be able to hold more liquid, which is something to consider when using mediums like watercolour, and acrylic paints.
Dimensions of the paper
This is pretty straightforward, how big do you want the paper? Consider whether the paper is being used for posters or display work, or you want more craft paper and lots of different colours. Standard paper is A4 size, this is the size of paper you will find in exercise books, and is most commonly used for printing on. If you’re wanting to size up, A3 is great for bigger posters, or if you looking to size down, A5 is great for creating greetings cards. But A4 paper can come in a whole range of colours, making it great for various uses, including crafts, printing onto, and posters.
Benefits of good quality art paper
There are quite a few benefits of choosing good quality paper for art and crafting in school. But it’s all about balance, consider the mediums, their intended use, and then the skill of the students.
Longevity of artwork: The quality paper will mean less tearing, ripping, and overall damage to the paper, and subsequently the artwork on the paper.
Getting the best from mediums: Having great acrylic paints or pastels is only half of it. Using the right quality paper will mean you don’t lose any pigment, and the mediums will work as they were intended.
Printing quality: If you’re using quality paper for printing, this can often mean better clarity of images and a sharper finish.
Explore our wide range of paper, including sugar paper, card, foil paper, cellophane, tissue paper, display rolls, mounting card, and even patterned crafting paper, all at Paper Plus.
Contact Us
If you’ve got a question about the range of paper we supply explore our website further or get in touch. Email us via sales@paperplusuk.com or call us 01444 238 050.
