The texture and surface properties of paper are significant considerations for artists. An artist’s work can be altered by something as simple as texture, especially in watercolours. Artists consider a wide variety of choices, brands, and levels of quality when choosing paper. Moreover, watercolour artists have the option of evaluating texture options. In order to simplify things, watercolour paper companies label their textures as either “cold press” or “hot press.”  It might seem overwhelming to a beginner watercolour artist to use these unfamiliar terms, but it doesn’t have to be that way. It is possible to understand the differences between the two papers, and how they can enhance the artwork, with a little bit of research.

How Do They Differ?

How do cold press and hot press watercolour papers differ? We often associate watercolour pieces with cold press paper, which has a classic, textured surface. Most artists will use this paper for their watercolour projects because it is the classic, go-to paper. A hot press watercolour paper has no texture. It has an incredibly smooth surface. The surface texture of illustration or bristol board is very similar to that of pricey “hot press” watercolour paper, so why not use them instead?

It is designed to withstand multiple heavy washes of water. In terms of water resistance, Bristol board isn’t the same as other types of board. To save a few dollars, a creative shouldn’t sacrifice quality in order to get a smooth texture for their watercolour work.

Pros and Cons of Cold and Hot Press 

Water is absorbed more readily by cold press than by hot press. The texture gives the illustration an instant sense of character. Watercolour paint pigments granulate and flow along the dips, grooves, and irregularities of cold press paper.

It is the signature characteristic of watercolour artwork that everyone associates with cold presses. The hot press is better suited to fine details. Compared to cold press, it works better with ink, pens, and penciled details. It lends itself to precision due to its smooth surface.

As a result of the smooth surface, once the layers, glazes, and washes have dried, the irregularities of the water have an extraordinary effect. There are different ways to layer your watercolour washes depending on the paper you are using. It is a little harder to distinguish washes and layers on a cold press sheet.

There is a little more ease in blending the colours. On a hot press sheet, the layers are built up individually. You can make your style stand out with this property. When the paint has dried, cold pressing allows for some lifting; hot pressing allows for more lifting and alteration. Compared to hot press paintings, cold press paintings are less vivid due to the different ways light refracts on the two textures. The cold press is absorbent and dries quickly. When painting online with hot press, you have more time to adjust the paint as it dries and it is less absorbent.

It is not wrong to make either choice. It is the artist’s needs that matter. Since most watercolour artists prefer cold press paper, it can be harder to find hot press paper in art stores. Getting a hold of this press shouldn’t be a problem if you know which brands to look for. It’s always best to use 100% cotton watercolour paper for your finished pieces, whether you use cold press or hot press. However, no matter what watercolour paper you choose for your work, never sacrifice paper quality.

Not All Cold Press Textures are Created the Same

There is nothing complicated about hot press watercolor paper: a smooth surface means a smooth surface. The cold press method is entirely different. There are actually differences between brands of cold press paper when it comes to texture. Even if it’s a subtle difference, texture variations can have a profound impact on your work, especially if you use pencils or pens.

How do you Choose the Right Texture?

It does not matter whether you use cold press paper or hot press paper. Ultimately, you have to decide which is best for you. It’s okay to buy both sheets if you’re unsure which one is better for your work. Consider the pros and cons of each method and choose the one that works best for you. Find out which of the two presses appeals most to you by looking at the work of other watercolour artists and their press choices. Working with the paper itself is a convenient way to see how paint and pigment react to it.