Many artists see drawing as more than just a skill—it’s an essential form of expression.
Picking the right paper can significantly affect the outcome of a piece, and the Strathmore 500 Series is known for its quality and versatility.
This series is designed for professionals who demand the best in terms of texture and durability, making it a popular choice among serious artists.
When choosing drawing paper, factors like weight, texture, and acidity can influence how mediums interact with the surface.
The Strathmore 500 Series offers various options that cater to different styles, whether you’re working with graphite, charcoal, or ink.
Understanding the qualities of each type will help enhance your work and ensure that your drawings stand the test of time.
In this journey to find the best Strathmore 500 Series drawing paper, I’ve explored multiple options to help guide your choice.
Whether you’re looking for something specific to your medium or a paper that can handle a range of techniques, some standout products will suit your needs perfectly.
Best Strathmore 500 Series Drawing Paper for Professional Artists
Drawing is an essential form of expression for me, and the Strathmore 500 Series Drawing Paper is a top choice for many professionals.
It offers a superior surface that enhances my work and allows for precision in every stroke.
Check out my top picks for the best options available!
Strathmore 500 Series Mixed Media Roll
I highly recommend the Strathmore 500 Series Mixed Media Roll for anyone serious about their art practices.
- Suitable for a variety of mediums, from pencil to watercolor.
- Heavyweight paper minimizes bleed-through.
- Versatile size, perfect for large projects.
- Some sheets may arrive with bent corners.
- Price is on the higher side.
- Handling the roll might be tricky at first.
Using the Strathmore 500 Series Mixed Media Roll has been a game changer for my artwork.
The quality of the paper immediately stands out; it’s thick and sturdy, creating a solid foundation for multiple mediums.
I’ve used it with everything from colored pencils to watercolors, and it holds up beautifully.
The vellum surface offers just the right amount of texture to make my colors pop without any unwanted bleeding.
One of the best features is how well it accommodates light washes.
I’ve experimented with watercolor techniques, and I was pleasantly surprised by how the paper handled it.
It doesn’t warp like some other papers I’ve tried, which makes a significant difference in the finished piece.
Using it feels indulgent, and I can tell my work benefits from the quality.
However, I did experience some issues with a few corners being slightly bent upon arrival, which was a bit disappointing given the price point.
Despite this minor setback, the overall performance is fantastic.
I appreciate how this roll allows for larger creations, giving me the freedom to explore my artistic style without constraint.
If you’re looking to elevate your artwork and can handle a few quirks, this mixed media roll is definitely worth considering.
Strathmore 500 Series Bristol Pad
I highly recommend the Strathmore 500 Series Bristol Pad for any serious artist looking for a reliable surface.
- Excellent for various media like pencils, inks, and markers.
- Durable paper allows for multiple layers without losing texture.
- Large size (11″x17″) provides plenty of room for detail.
- Might not be smooth enough for those who prefer slick surfaces.
- Occasionally arrives with minor imperfections due to packaging.
- Price may be higher compared to standard drawing pads.
Using the Strathmore 500 Series Bristol Pad has been a game-changer for my artwork.
The 2-ply vellum surface holds up beautifully when I work with colored pencils and inks.
I especially appreciate how the tooth of the paper captures every shade, allowing me to layer colors without the paper wearing down too quickly.
Creating comic and graphic novel art feels natural on this pad.
The substantial size at 11″x17″ offers ample space, making it easy to express complex ideas and fine details.
I’ve had no issues with bleed-through, which is crucial when inking over my sketches.
While I’ve noticed some packs arriving with slight wrinkling, the paper itself is consistently high quality.
It does lean towards a toothier finish, which isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you typically favor smoother surfaces.
Overall, I’ve found this pad elevates the entire artistic experience, making it well worth the investment for serious projects.
Strathmore 400 Series Mixed Media Roll
I’m quite impressed with the Strathmore 400 Series Mixed Media Roll.
It’s been a reliable choice for my artwork.
- Excellent for various mediums, accommodating everything from pastels to ink.
- Thick, textured paper enhances the depth of colors beautifully.
- Generous size allows plenty of room for creativity.
- May require careful handling since it can be sensitive to heavy erasing.
- Limited to 30 sheets, which might not be enough for avid artists.
- Some might find it a bit bulky, especially for smaller projects.
Recently, I gave the Strathmore 400 Series a try for some mixed media projects.
Right from the start, the thickness of this paper stood out to me.
It feels substantial and durable.
When I worked with colored pencils, the texture allowed for smooth blending, creating rich, vibrant results.
Using it with markers and watercolors was a pleasant experience.
The paper holds up well without warping too much, even when I added lighter washes.
It really showcases details in my work, making it great for both quick sketches and more elaborate pieces.
That said, I did encounter a couple of minor issues.
After some erasing, I noticed the paper could get a bit rough in those areas.
Also, the quantity of sheets might feel sparse for someone like me who loves to experiment and create often.
Overall, it’s a worthy investment for professional artists looking for quality mixed media options.
Strathmore 500 Series Charcoal Pad
This paper is a solid choice for artists serious about charcoal and pastel work thanks to its high-quality performance.
- Exceptional texture for diverse shading techniques.
- Made from 100% cotton fiber, ensuring durability.
- Acid-free, preserving artwork over time.
- The paper can be thin and feel flimsy at times.
- Limited to 24 sheets, which may run out quickly.
- Corners may squish during packaging.
Using Strathmore’s 500 Series Charcoal Pad has definitely enhanced my drawing experience.
The traditional laid finish offers fantastic shading control, making it a reliable choice for any charcoal artist.
I appreciate how well the texture holds onto the charcoal; it’s great for deep, rich marks.
That said, I found the thinness of the paper a little concerning.
When drawing, I noticed the sheets could feel flimsy, especially when I was handling them.
I often had to be careful when removing a sheet from the pad to avoid damaging it.
Overall, the quality definitely shines through when I’m using this pad.
It’s ideal for capturing intricate details, although I wish it had a few more sheets per pad.
If you’re an artist focused on high-quality materials, this pad might just be what you need for your next project.
Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Pad
I recommend this drawing pad for anyone looking to elevate their artwork with a reliable surface.
- Excellent quality that suits various drawing mediums.
- Smooth, uniform surface ideal for detailed work.
- Convenient micro-perforated sheets for easy removal.
- May feel a bit pricey compared to other options.
- The cream color might not be ideal for everyone.
- Limited texture may restrict layering techniques.
Using the Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Pad has been a game changer for my artistic process.
The smooth surface is a delight, especially when using colored pencils and pens.
I appreciate how well the paper handles erasing; any sketching mistakes disappear without a trace, which is essential for clean lines.
The size options are great, and I opted for the 18″ x 24″ version.
It feels substantial, allowing for those larger compositions without compromising on detail.
I found it works really well for both quick studies and more refined pieces.
While it does come at a slightly higher price point, the quality reassures me that it’s worth the investment.
Just be mindful of the cream hue—it adds a warm touch but might not suit every style.
This pad has genuinely boosted my confidence in creating more intricate work.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right drawing paper is crucial for any artist.
Here are some key factors I consider when making my decision.
Paper Weight
The weight of the paper is important.
Generally, heavier paper can handle more mediums without warping. Typical weights include:
| Weight (lb) | Usage |
|---|---|
| 90 lb | Sketching |
| 140 lb | Watercolor |
| 300 lb | Professional work |
Texture
The surface texture can affect how my pencils or paints interact with the paper.
Here are a few textures I look for:
- Hot Pressed: Smooth surface ideal for detailed work.
- Cold Pressed: Slightly textured, great for mixed media.
- Rough: Highly textured, works well with wet media.
Acid-Free
I always check if the paper is acid-free.
This ensures the artwork won’t yellow or fade over time.
Color
The color of the paper can enhance my work.
I prefer neutral tones, which provide a good backdrop for colors.
Sizing
The sizing of paper refers to its absorbency, affecting how much my water media spreads.
I typically look for papers that are internally and externally sized for better control.
These points guide me in making an informed choice for my drawing needs.