10 Best Watercolor Books 2026 in the United States

The Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch is a top-tier choice for watercolor artists, whether beginners or professionals. One of its biggest strengths is the use of 100% cotton paper, which ensures a luxurious feel and excellent durability. The cold press texture allows for great moisture absorption, giving artists control over their paints. The paper's unique gelatin sizing prevents colors from bleeding and enhances blending, making it ideal for various techniques. Additionally, the pH-neutral quality helps preserve artworks over time without the risk of yellowing, which is essential for anyone serious about their craft.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The price point may be on the higher end, which could be a drawback for those just starting out or on a tight budget. While the pad is designed for watercolors, it is also compatible with other mediums like gouache and ink, but some artists may prefer specific pads for certain materials.

The layout is straightforward with sheets that can be easily removed, making it convenient for artists who like to work on individual pieces. However, the 9x12-inch size may not suit everyone, especially if you prefer larger or smaller formats for your projects.

This watercolor pad is a fantastic investment for dedicated artists who value quality and longevity in their materials. It may be less suitable for casual users or those exploring various art forms without a commitment to watercolor painting.

The U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Book set is a solid choice for artists of various skill levels, whether you're a beginner or more experienced. With its compact size of 5.5" x 8.5" and included two-pack, this product is convenient for travel and on-the-go sketching. Each book is filled with 76 sheets of heavyweight 110 lb (230 GSM) paper, which is thick enough to handle watercolors without bleed-through, making it suitable for both wet and dry media.

One standout feature is the cold-pressed textured surface that enhances the blending of colors and helps achieve clean lines. The acid-free nature of the paper also ensures that your artwork won’t fade over time, which is a great advantage for preserving your pieces. The linen-bound hardcover design adds durability, making these books resistant to daily wear and tear, while the elastic band closure keeps your projects protected from environmental factors.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The size might be limiting for those who prefer larger canvases to work on, especially for expansive watercolor techniques. While the textured finish is beneficial, some artists might find it less suitable for precision work that requires a smoother surface. Additionally, being a mixed media book, it may not excel in all types of media, so it's best suited for watercolor and sketching rather than heavy applications like oils or pastels.

The Canson XL Series Watercolor Paper is an excellent option for both adults and students who are engaged in watercolor painting and other mixed media. The paper's cold press texture allows for a variety of techniques, making it versatile for different skill levels, from beginners to more advanced artists. The durable surface is a significant advantage, standing up well to repeated washes without warping or deteriorating, which is crucial for those who use multiple layers of paint and water.

This makes it suitable not only for watercolors but also for other mediums such as pencil, colored pencil, pen, ink, charcoal, pastel, and acrylic, broadening its usability. The 7 x 10-inch size is practical for both portable and tabletop use, though some users might find it too small for larger scale projects. The 140lb/300g weight indicates a sturdy, high-quality paper that can handle plenty of water without buckling. Additionally, the acid-free quality ensures that artworks created on this paper will not yellow or degrade over time, which is important for preserving art.

The wirebound pad format is user-friendly, allowing artists to easily flip through sheets and keep their work organized. However, the limited edition color might not be to everyone’s taste. To sum up, the Canson XL Series Watercolor Paper is a reliable and flexible choice for watercolor artists of varying levels, offering durability and versatility in a manageable size.