Watercolor Paper Block, BAOHONG Academy Grade Watercolor Block, 100% Cotton, Acid-Free, 140LB/300GSM, Cold Press Textured, 20 Sheets per Block (Cold Press 4.9" x7“”)

As a beginner in watercolors, I’ve often heard that while you can use inexpensive paints and brushes, you should never skimp on paper—always aim for the best quality you can afford. I also read that 100% cotton paper is ideal for achieving the best results. I already own a pad of Arches cold-pressed watercolor paper, but I didn’t want to “waste” it while I’m still learning the basics. That’s when I came across the BaoHong brand and decided to give it a try. They offer both artist-grade and student (academy) grade options. I chose the student grade, as both versions are 100% cotton. Wow, what a difference! Even as a beginner, I can tell this paper is leagues ahead of the non-cotton papers I was using before. It stays wet longer, allowing for smoother blending, and I’m seeing fewer harsh lines and edges. The texture feels very similar (if not identical) to higher-end papers I’ve tried. Overall, I’m genuinely impressed with BaoHong’s student-grade paper. If this is considered “student” quality, I can only imagine how incredible the artist-grade version must be. For anyone starting out in watercolor or looking for quality paper at a reasonable price, this is an absolute win!

This is great paper for the price. It does have a bit of texture to it, and is not perfectly smooth. This means there tends to be more absorbency to the paper, which can be important depending on what you are doing with your watercolor. The paper is thick and feels like a good quality. I used gouache watercolor on this paper, and it turned out great with the color accuracy. The paper size is a bit odd for people in the US, and finding a frame for my work is proving to be difficult unless I go custom. The most difficult part is getting the page off once you are finished. The glue is well done on the edges, but it does mean you have to use a sharp xacto knife. You have to be very careful not to cut into the paper while getting the page off. Overall, I am very impressed with this paper compared to more expensive alternatives. I wish there were more sizes to choose from so I can more easily frame my pieces, but that is really the only complain that I have. For what it is, it is GREAT!

I'm a beginner watercolor painter and have found that having higher quality paper has made it easier to learn techniques and made me less (often) frustrated with results. This is my favorite product because it's good quality but not too expensive. I've been able to use both sides of the paper (once it's off the bloc) which makes it even more cost effective.

Good paper for practice. Am disappointed because it is 100% cotton and I expected it to be closer in quality to other good 100% cotton paper, but I guess the lower price is a good indicator of quality.

I love this paper. It is considered a student grade paper and yet I like it as much or more than Arches. It has slightly less texture than Arches. I mostly paint with gouache which takes several layers of paint. I also use a considerable amount of water. This paper handled it all very well. The paper did not warp. I did leave it on the pad until fully dry but I could tell that it was not warping. If you're looking for a new paper that is less expensive than professional grade papers this is a good pick. It is actually my new favorite paper and I own several name brand papers.

I've been using this block for a couple months. I have now used 18 of the 20 included sheets. So, I've had sufficient experience with this 5 x 7 Academy block by Baohong. I like to do wet on wet and I like using watercolor blocks. I have tried several, and this is the first that has impressed me. Firstly, it comes with 20 sheets. Secondly, the texture is beautiful under my paintings. Thirdly, this is very much the nicest paper I've worked with. Yes, I use a lot of water. Yes, the paper does buckle a little, but not like others I've worked with. Yes, my work has become more complex and detailed than in the past and I'm always growing as an artist, but still, I think this paper improves the look of my work. A lot, my friend. However, I don't recommend you purchase this block. Why, you might ask? I bought this block to test the brand, and found I strongly prefer it over others I've tried. (Excluding expensive Arches.) Because I like it so much, I've purchased the full roll of Baohong Cold Pressed for a very reasonable price here on Amazon. I would recommend you purchase the roll yourself, but I know that's a big leap. I would suggest you purchase the Baohong Sample Pack to see if you also approve of the quality and then buy the roll if you find the paper to your liking. Additionally, I would like to end by letting you know I'm a legit watercolor supply snob. I prefer top quality. I use Daniel Smith paints and Princeton Aqua Elite brushes. If this sounds like you, you'll probably like this paper. If you're happy with the products you use, don't switch! Stay wet, my friend.

Good quality paper, especially for the price. I like the sample pack format, because it gives me a chance to try several different types.

I was pleasantly surprised at how nice this paper is. I’ve tried arches and love it as well, but it’s much more expensive. You definitely need to use a palette knife or the leaf that comes with the paper to remove your finished art from the pad. Don’t attempt to use your fingers. None of my pages have ripped. The paper is very heavy (as thick as canson oil and acrylic paper). I do a lot of layering in my work and appreciate that the paper doesn’t warp on the pad. I’ve used the paper for both watercolor and gouache and both work great. The paper has quite a bit of texture so it holds a lot of water. I haven’t had any trouble getting detailed work on it either. I will say that the texture does lend itself to holding onto pencil sketches a lot though, so either go very lightly with your sketching or use a caran d’ache non photo blue pencil to minimize pencil marks showing. Even with erasing, my pencil marks came to the surface. All in all, I’ve been really impressed by this paper’s performance and highly recommend trying it out.

First time using this paper with water soluble graphite. Takes many layers, love that it is in a block so I don’t have to tape down to a board. Reasonably priced. I think this paper will now be my go to for watercolor.

Excellent paper and price

The quality of paper is so good

My favorite paper for watercolor that I have tried so far. I like it better than Winsor & Newton

Why isn't there a letter opener? I heard from artists that it should be included in a Baohong block. Failing that use a butter knife to separate the pages after painting or even before if you prefer