Arches Watercolour Pad - Hot Press

Arches Watercolour Pad - Hot Press is part of the renowned Arches Aquarelle range, widely respected by professional watercolour artists for its consistency, durability, and exceptional handling characteristics. The smooth hot press finish provides an ideal surface for intricate brushwork, botanical painting, illustration, pen and wash techniques, and layered glazing.

Made from 100% long cotton fibre, the paper combines strength, longevity, and a naturally bright white surface. Cotton fibres help create a distinctive feel while contributing to the paper's ability to withstand repeated wetting, lifting, erasing, and reworking.

The traditional cylinder mould manufacturing process distributes fibres evenly in all directions throughout the sheet. This even fibre distribution allows the paper to expand and contract more uniformly when wet, giving artists greater control during washes and reducing unwanted distortion.

Exclusive gelatin sizing throughout the sheet helps preserve colour brilliance and transparency while preventing paint from immediately soaking into the paper. This allows artists to build multiple washes, lift colour more easily, and create refined effects without excessive surface damage.

Compared to textured cold press papers, hot press paper offers a smoother finish with less tooth. Artists seeking pronounced texture and granulation effects may prefer cold press surfaces, while those prioritizing detail, clean edges, and smooth colour transitions often choose hot press paper.

This paper is ideal for watercolour painting, ink techniques, gouache, acrylic applications, glazing, colour lifting, layering, and detailed illustration work. See our full range of Arches watercolour paper, shop watercolour paints and sets, and explore compatible brushes.

Use Arches Hot Press paper for techniques that benefit from a smooth, controlled surface. Fine details, crisp edges, transparent washes, and pen-and-ink applications are particularly well suited to this finish.

The paper's gelatin sizing supports layering and colour lifting while helping maintain the luminosity of watercolour pigments. Artists can build multiple washes and make corrections with reduced risk of tearing or linting.

Suitable for watercolour, ink, gouache, and acrylic applications. Always test unfamiliar techniques before beginning important finished work.

Store the pad flat in a clean, dry environment away from prolonged moisture exposure. Maintaining stable humidity levels helps preserve paper quality and flatness over time.

For Ottawa and Canadian winter deliveries, allow the paper pad to acclimate to room temperature before opening packaging. This helps reduce the effects of rapid temperature and humidity changes during transit.

No specific safety warnings or SDS information have been provided for this product.

What makes Arches Hot Press paper different from standard watercolour paper?

It is made from 100% cotton using a traditional cylinder mould process and features gelatin sizing throughout the sheet. These qualities contribute to strength, durability, and exceptional paint handling.

What is the advantage of a hot press surface?

Hot press paper has a smooth finish that supports fine detail and clean lines. It is often preferred for illustration, botanical work, and precise brush control.

Is this paper suitable for beginners?

Yes. While widely used by professionals, beginners can also benefit from its durability and forgiving handling characteristics.

Can I use gouache and ink on this paper?

Yes. The manufacturer states it is suitable for watercolour, ink, gouache, and acrylic techniques.

Can colours be lifted from the paper?

Yes. The gelatin sizing allows paint to be removed more easily while helping reveal the whiteness of the paper beneath.

Does the paper resist scratching and erasing?

Yes. The cylinder mould construction and gelatin sizing help provide resistance to scratching and erasing.

How should I store the pad?

Store it flat in a dry location with stable humidity. Avoid prolonged exposure to damp environments.

Is watercolour paper the same as watercolor paper?

Yes. Watercolour is the Canadian spelling, while watercolor is the commonly used American spelling.