Tips for oil painting on paper (and the best paper to use)
It could be said that paper is the bread and butter of traditional art making. It’s the surface most
artists turn to when laying down their ideas, sketching out preliminary drafts, and documenting
inspiration. For some artists—such as those working in pencil, watercolour, and acrylics, paper is
also the go-to medium for completing their final pieces. But did you know, with the right paper and
preparation, that it can also be used with oil paint? Whilst canvas is a more common surface for oils,
there are many advantages to trying your hand with oil on paper. Here, we’ll outline some of those
benefits, which paper to use, and our top tips for oil painting on this versatile and accessible
medium.
Light Over The Port, oil on paper | Photo by Richard Whadcock
Main advantages of working on paper
Flexibility: Because paper can be easily rolled up and transported, it is easier, and more cost- effective to store and ship. It also allows for working en plein air, giving artists the freedom of cutting to size on location.
Cost effective: As paper is much cheaper than traditional mediums such as canvas and board, it
offers a certain freedom.
Time saving: Though most paper options still require priming, it’s a much quicker process than
stretching your own canvas from scratch.
Style and technique: Oil paint blends differently on different surfaces. Whilst canvas allows for very smooth gradients when the paint is wet, its pitted surface can prevent fine details, especially in small-scale Canvas painting work. Paper can be much better in this regard, allowing for finer strokes upon your first layer of paint.
Under a Texan Sky, oil on paper | Photo by David Raison
Best paper for oil painting
Traditionally, oil painters have avoided paper because solvents cause the paper to degrade easily,
and it can become prone to cracking when subjected to changes in humidity. However, there are
multiple ways around this. We’ve written previously on how to prime any paper and cardboard for
oil painting, but there are certain types of paper that are more suited to oil paint than others. Let’s
look at a few of these options:
Oil painting paper
On properly prepared paper, oil paint should be completely stable. That’s exactly what you get with
pre-prepared oil painting paper—a durable and time-saving solution for those who want to get
straight to work without the hassle of sizing and priming. Specifically produced for use with oil, this
type of paper is an excellent option due to its rigidity and absorption properties.
Oil painting paper comes most frequently in pads, and at a fairly reasonable price. Rolls of this paper
can also be sourced in most well-stocked craft shops, a great option for larger-scale work, though it
does come with a hefty price tag. Nevertheless, this paper is reliable, creating an effective barrier to
absorb solvents, water and binders whilst allowing the pigment to remain on the surface. As
opposed to watercolour paper, works done on oil paper are also able to be framed without glass, as
the surface can be varnished.
Try: Arches Oil Paper
This paper, made from 100% cotton, is a popular choice with artists looking to try their hand at oil on
paper. With a slight texture, this it boasts a brightness of surface, and great absorbency. The paper is
300 gsm (140 lbs) and comes in pads of 9×12 inches and 12×16 inches.
Calcutta Taxi #3, oil on paper | Photo by Anarkali Check
Watercolour paper
Another fantastic option for oils on paper is a good-quality watercolour paper due to its thickness,
rough surface, and high-absorption. However, it still requires priming before use to help stabilise the
surface for oil. To this end, cold-pressed watercolour paper may be slightly better than a hot-pressed
version, but either can be used provided they are adequately prepared. Slightly cheaper than
specially made oil painting paper, watercolour paper is a popular and economic choice for artists on
a budget.
Try: Hahnemuhle Leonardo Watercolour Paper
I really like this paper for its smooth surface which ensures brightness and excellent colour flow. It is
a natural, white, acid-free paper, again made from 100% cotton with surface sizing. Available in pads
or blocks of varying sizes.
Printmaking paper
Similarly to watercolour paper, printmaking paper is another suitable option due to its acid-free
properties and thickness.
Try: BFK Rives Printmaking Paper
Available in sheets up to 280 gsm, or rolls of 300 gsm, it comes with a matte white surface and is
known for its archival integrity.
Note: There are so many types of paper available, the above-mentioned ones are simply
suggestions, so don’t worry if your local art shop doesn’t stock the exact product. Ultimately, any
paper will do if primed correctly, especially for experiments and studies. Lower-quality paper may
not last for centuries, but you shouldn’t let that stop you from painting!
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