The Most Beautiful Paper for Drawing and Painting Circles

As a circle art maker, I have tried various watercolour papers, but Saunders Waterford watercolour paper has become my go-to choice. The paper is made in a mill. St Cuthberts Mill is the manufacturer of Saunders Waterford paper, and it is located in the Axe Valley in Somerset, which is the site of the earliest papermaking mills in England. 

St Cuthberts Mill is nestled in the shadow of the Mendip hills in Somerset, England. Paper has been made on this site since the 1700s, utilising the pure waters of the River Axe that issue forth from the cave at Wookey Hole. With the 100 year-old cylinder mould machine, one of the few left in the world, master papermakers produce beautiful papers with stunning texture and excellent surface stability that are used by artists and photographers world-wide. This is a story about how the paper is made

The paper is 100% cotton and mould-made, which gives it a unique texture that holds paint beautifully.  It is also acid-free and archival, ensuring that my artwork will last for years to come. I love the fact that it comes in different textures such as rough press, cold press, and hot press. For example:

Rough press watercolour paper is a type of watercolour paper that has a rough texture on its surface. It is the roughest texture available among the three basic textures of watercolour paper, which are rough, cold-pressed. The rough texture of this paper allows for more paint to be absorbed into the crevices, creating a unique effect in the final circle artwork. 

Cold press watercolour paper is a type of watercolour paper that has a slightly bumpy, textured surface. Cold press paper is made by pressing the sheet through cold metal rollers, which creates texture on the surface. This texture allows for some paint to be absorbed into the crevices while still allowing for smooth washes and fine details.

Hot press watercolour paper is a type of watercolour paper that has a smooth surface. It is made by pressing the sheet between two hot metal rollers, which compresses the fibers and creates a smooth texture. Hot press paper is less absorbent than cold-pressed paper, which allows for more time to adjust the paint while drying. This type of paper is ideal for artists who want to create circle art fine details and precise lines in their artwork. The smooth surface of hot press watercolour paper also makes it suitable for printing digital images, ink circle art making and calligraphy work. However, it can be challenging to work with as it requires more skill to control the paint due to its lack of texture.

Knowing that Saunder and Waterford paper comes with the endorsement of the Royal Watercolour Society of Britain makes me feel confident in my choice. Overall, Saunders Waterford watercolour paper has helped me elevate my circle artwork to new heights.