Drawing surfaces, paper and boards.

I have been asked about the types of drawing papers surfaces that I use. My preference is usually an illustration board that will stay flat in the frame for years to come. Unfortunately, getting it cut correctly to size has been an issue lately. I have repeatedly had to recut board. Additionally, the artist material companies and art stores do not sell board in sizes that translate well into standard sized frames without huge amounts of waste and unusable leftovers.

There are many papers and boards available, but the number that take the ink well from a Micron archival pen are limited. I draw in pencil lightly, apply the ink drawing, and then erase the pencil from the art board surface. So, the paper must work with this process also.

I commonly use cold press illustration board and Bristol board, plus, sometimes even hot press illustration board. The cold press illustration board and Bristol board have excellent ability to take light pencil sketches and ink applied in the final drawing.  As the ink dries on the surface, it is permanent. These boards allow you to erase the pencil while not degrading the ink artwork. This is a great benefit to someone who works in the way that I do. Hot press illustration board with a clay coating is not pencil friendly or ink safe. If you attempt to erase the pencil drawing, you will lose about half of your ink drawing. This is not a desirable effect.

Bristol board is actually a heavy paper much like a stiff cardstock. The name comes from Bristol, England where its use was popularized. (It is not a brand name, as some believe). Bristol paper or the heavier ‘board’ comes in two textures; both of these textures are quite smooth and work well with pen. The larger selling point for Bristol board is that it comes in pads and in single sheets in workable sizes. Quality Bristol board is also very economic compared to hot or cold press illustration board.

If you use pen and ink with watercolor or ink washes, I would use the heavier board to prevent curling and surface degradation. If you are looking for a rougher surface or a texture, I suggest that you may wish to take a walk through the art supply store or go onto the paper company website and requesting a sample packet.

Currently, I am creating my studio work on Bristol board for pieces that are 11” X 14” or smaller and Crescent 300 cold press illustration board for commissioned work and drawings that is larger than 11” X 14”. Choosing quality paper is important. You don’t want to have your art deteriorate on someone’s wall in a few years because you saved a dollar or two. But, quality paper can last for several decades without the ridiculous prices. Take your time and find what works for you.

https://www.facebook.com/Eric-Ray-Creative-349522699297/

ericraycreative@gmail.com