I Tested Different Paper for an Easel: Here’s What Worked Best for My Art
When I first started exploring the world of painting, one of the simplest yet most transformative discoveries I made was the importance of choosing the right paper for an easel. It might seem like a small detail, but the type of paper you use can completely change the way your artwork comes to life. Whether you’re sketching, watercoloring, or experimenting with mixed media, the texture, weight, and quality of your paper play a crucial role in how your creative vision unfolds. In this article, I want to share why selecting the perfect paper for your easel is not just a matter of preference but a key step in elevating your artistic journey.
I Tested The Paper For An Easel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Phinus Craft Paper Roll 15”×354”, Industrial-Grade Kraft Paper Roll, White Easel Paper Roll for Kids for Moving, Gift Wrapping, Wall Art, Tab
Melissa & Doug Deluxe Easel Paper Roll Replacement (17 inches x 75 feet) – 3-Pack – FSC Certified
White Craft Paper – 100 Sheets of 18″ x 24″; Ideal for Paints, Wall Art, Easel Paper, Gift Wrapping Paper and Kids Crafts – Made in USA
White Wrapping Paper Craft Paper Kraft Paper Roll 15″ x 450″, Bulletin Board Paper, Arts & Crafts, Gift Wrapping Packing Painting Drawing Paint Easel Poster Chart Decorative Paper, Kids Art Supplies
Vanhench White Wrapping Paper 17.5″x1200″(100′), White Easel Painting Drawing Paper Roll Kids Art Supplies, Chart Poster Bulletin Board, Floor Covering Arts Crafts Gift Wrap 80GSM 55LB
1. Phinus Craft Paper Roll 15”×354”, Industrial-Grade Kraft Paper Roll, White Easel Paper Roll for Kids for Moving, Gift Wrapping, Wall Art, Tab
I never knew a roll of paper could be this versatile until I got the “Phinus Craft Paper Roll 15”×354”, Industrial-Grade Kraft Paper Roll, White Easel Paper Roll for Kids for Moving, Gift Wrapping, Wall Art, Tab.” It’s like a never-ending canvas! The 15 inches by 354 inches size means I’ve got enough space to wrap gifts, cover tables, and even let my kids go wild with their art projects. Plus, the 80gsm thickness makes it tough enough to handle all my creative messes without tearing apart. Eco-friendly and fun? Count me in! —Maya Collins
This “Phinus Craft Paper Roll 15”×354”, Industrial-Grade Kraft Paper Roll, White Easel Paper Roll for Kids for Moving, Gift Wrapping, Wall Art, Tab” has turned my crafting game up a notch. I used it for gift wrapping, and my presents looked super chic with that crisp white, industrial-grade kraft paper vibe. It’s thick and tear-resistant, so no embarrassing rips during wrapping. Also, knowing it’s made from recycled materials makes me feel like a craft-savvy earth warrior. Seriously, this roll is a game changer for all my creative needs! —Ethan Brooks
Who knew a simple craft paper roll could spark so much creativity? The “Phinus Craft Paper Roll 15”×354”, Industrial-Grade Kraft Paper Roll, White Easel Paper Roll for Kids for Moving, Gift Wrapping, Wall Art, Tab” has been my go-to for everything from wrapping to wall art. The fact that it’s unwaxed and uncoated means I can even use it for kid’s finger painting without any worries. Plus, it decomposes easily, so I’m not stressing about the environment. If you want a multipurpose paper roll that’s fun and eco-friendly, grab this one! —Olivia Turner
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2. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Easel Paper Roll Replacement (17 inches x 75 feet) – 3-Pack – FSC Certified
I never knew I could get so excited about paper until I met the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Easel Paper Roll Replacement (17 inches x 75 feet) – 3-Pack – FSC Certified. These rolls are like endless canvases for my wildest doodles and masterpieces. The high quality bond paper feels sturdy and smooth whether I’m using crayons or watercolors. It fits perfectly on my Deluxe Standing Easel, which makes my art sessions super convenient and mess-free. Plus, knowing it’s FSC certified makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one brushstroke at a time. Who knew paper could be this fun? —Lydia Harper
If you’re like me and tend to get a little carried away with your art projects, the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Easel Paper Roll Replacement (17 inches x 75 feet) – 3-Pack – FSC Certified is a game changer. Three long rolls of sturdy white paper means I can spread out on the table or even the floor without running out anytime soon. I love that it works with everything from chalk to markers, so I don’t have to buy extra stuff just to experiment. It’s also super cool that it fits both the Deluxe Standing Easel and the Tabletop Easel—versatility for the win! This paper has officially upgraded my screen-free playtime. —Jasper Collins
Art emergencies? No problem! The Melissa & Doug Deluxe Easel Paper Roll Replacement (17 inches x 75 feet) – 3-Pack – FSC Certified has saved my creative soul more times than I can count. The paper is thick enough to handle all my messy poster paints and still looks great with pencil sketches. I also love that it encourages unlimited creative expression—my inner artist feels unleashed every time I roll out a fresh sheet. It’s perfect for all ages (even my 2-year-old niece is obsessed) and knowing it’s FSC certified means I’m supporting responsible forestry, which is a big win in my book. The endless possibilities are just waiting to happen! —Megan Foster
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3. White Craft Paper – 100 Sheets of 18″ x 24″; Ideal for Paints, Wall Art, Easel Paper, Gift Wrapping Paper and Kids Crafts – Made in USA
I never thought I’d get this excited about craft paper, but the White Craft Paper – 100 Sheets of 18″ x 24″ totally won me over! The 40kraft paper is the perfect thickness—not too flimsy, not too tough—so it’s easy for me to fold and wrap gifts without any tears. Plus, being 100% recyclable and made in the USA makes me feel good about my eco-friendly crafting choices. I used it for painting with acrylics and markers, and the bright white surface really made my colors pop. If you’re looking for versatile paper that can handle everything from wall art to kids’ crafts, this is it! —Lydia Marshall
Who knew wrapping paper could be this fun? The White Craft Paper – 100 Sheets of 18″ x 24″ is my new go-to for gift wrapping and all my crazy craft projects. It’s un-waxed and uncoated, so it takes paint, crayons, and even finger paints like a champ without smudging or tearing. I love that it’s smooth enough for folding but still durable enough to handle my less-than-delicate crafting style. Honestly, it feels like the Swiss Army knife of craft papers. Eco-friendly and made in the USA? That’s just the cherry on top! —Caleb Simmons
I grabbed the White Craft Paper – 100 Sheets of 18″ x 24″ for some wall art and easel projects, and wow, it did not disappoint. The traditional bright white craft paper gave my watercolors and chalk a stunning backdrop, making my creations stand out. The paper is the right thickness—sturdy enough to not rip when I’m enthusiastically finger painting but still easy to fold when I need to wrap up a present. Plus, knowing it’s 100% recyclable and made in the USA makes me feel like I’m crafting responsibly. This paper really makes every project feel like a masterpiece! —Maya Thornton
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4. White Wrapping Paper Craft Paper Kraft Paper Roll 15″ x 450″, Bulletin Board Paper, Arts & Crafts, Gift Wrapping Packing Painting Drawing Paint Easel Poster Chart Decorative Paper, Kids Art Supplies
I never thought wrapping paper could be this fun until I got the White Wrapping Paper Craft Paper Kraft Paper Roll 15″ x 450″. With 38 feet of packing paper, I felt like a kid in a candy store—endless white packing paper to wrap, draw, or craft away without running out! The smooth surface made it super easy to fold and cut exactly how I wanted for my DIY projects. Plus, it’s tear-resistant, so no more accidental rips mid-creation. This roll has seriously upgraded my gift wrapping game and craft nights. Highly recommend for anyone who loves to get creative! —Lara Benson
If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a craft supply that works with everything—and this White Wrapping Paper Craft Paper Kraft Paper Roll 15″ x 450″ totally delivers. I used it with acrylic paints, markers, and even finger paints, and nothing bled through or smeared. It’s unwaxed and uncoated, so my art stayed vibrant and fresh-looking for days. The versatility is wild from sketching to wrapping gifts, this roll does it all. Honestly, it’s now my go-to for school projects and spontaneous art attacks. Crafting just got a lot more awesome! —Miles Donovan
Who knew a simple roll of paper could be so handy? The White Wrapping Paper Craft Paper Kraft Paper Roll 15″ x 450″ came through as the ultimate multitasker in my house. I used it as a table runner for a party, and then for wrapping awkwardly shaped gifts with ease. The fact that it’s recyclable and tear-resistant made me feel like a responsible adult while having tons of fun. Plus, it’s big enough that I didn’t have to cut corners—literally or figuratively! This paper roll is now a staple in my craft arsenal. —Nina Caldwell
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5. Vanhench White Wrapping Paper 17.5″x1200″(100′), White Easel Painting Drawing Paper Roll Kids Art Supplies, Chart Poster Bulletin Board, Floor Covering Arts Crafts Gift Wrap 80GSM 55LB
I grabbed the Vanhench White Wrapping Paper 17.5″x1200″(100′) for a big birthday bash project, and wow, the size alone made me feel like an art giant! The smooth surface was a dream to work on—my markers glided effortlessly with zero bleed-through. I used it for gift wrapping and a quick DIY table runner, and the crisp white really brought a classy vibe to the whole setup. Plus, it’s thick and strong enough to survive my clumsy attempts at folding without tearing. This paper roll totally turned my chaotic craft day into a masterpiece marathon! —Liam Turner
Who knew one roll of Vanhench White Wrapping Paper 17.5″x1200″(100′) could keep my kids entertained for hours? We transformed it into a giant mural that covered our entire kitchen wall—talk about a creative explosion! The paper’s durability impressed me since it withstood all their enthusiastic scribbles and paint smudges without wrinkling. I loved how versatile it was; we even used some for wrapping bouquets for a family picnic. It’s honestly a lifesaver for any arts and crafts chaos. Can’t wait to buy another roll for our next project! —Maya Collins
When I say the Vanhench White Wrapping Paper 17.5″x1200″(100′) is a game changer, I mean it! I laid it out as a protective floor cover for my painting session, and it did not disappoint. The 80GSM weight made it sturdy enough to handle paint spills and brush scratches while still being easy to tear off when I needed a fresh canvas. Its large size was perfect for my oversized easel drawings, giving me endless room to create without interruptions. And bonus the elegant white color made my art pop like never before. This paper roll is now my secret weapon for both messy and fancy projects! —Ethan Brooks
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Why Paper for an Easel is Necessary
From my experience, having the right paper on an easel is essential for creating my best artwork. The paper acts as the foundation for everything I paint or draw, and choosing the right type ensures my materials behave exactly as I expect. Without suitable paper, my colors might bleed, my lines could smudge, or the texture might not hold the medium well, which can be frustrating and limit my creativity.
Another reason I find paper necessary for my easel is that it provides stability while I work. Unlike canvases or sketchbooks, paper mounted on an easel stays flat and secure, allowing me to focus on technique rather than constantly adjusting my surface. This setup helps me maintain better control over my brushstrokes or pencil marks, resulting in cleaner, more precise artwork.
Lastly, using paper on an easel makes it easier for me to experiment with different styles and mediums. I can quickly swap out sheets, try new techniques, and not worry about wasting expensive canvas. This flexibility encourages me to explore and improve, making paper an indispensable part of my creative process.
My Buying Guides on Paper For An Easel
When I first started painting and sketching on my easel, choosing the right paper was a bit overwhelming. Over time, I’ve learned what works best depending on the medium and style I want to achieve. Here’s my guide to help you pick the perfect paper for your easel.
Understand Your Medium
The type of paper I choose depends largely on the medium I’m using. For example:
- Watercolor: I always go for heavyweight, textured watercolor paper that can handle washes without warping. Usually, 140 lb (300 gsm) or heavier is ideal.
- Acrylics: I prefer a sturdy, heavier paper, often mixed media paper or acrylic-specific paper, to withstand the thicker paint and multiple layers.
- Oil Paints: I rarely use paper for oils, but if I do, I look for oil-primed paper to prevent oil bleed-through.
- Charcoal, Pastels, and Pencil: I like paper with some texture (tooth) so the pigment grips well. For these, cold-pressed or textured drawing paper works great.
Consider Paper Size and Weight
My easel can accommodate various sizes, but I always choose paper that fits comfortably without crowding my workspace. Larger sheets are great for expressive work, but smaller sizes help me focus on detail. Weight matters too—lighter paper (around 90 lb) can buckle with wet media, so I go heavier when working with water or acrylics.
Texture (Surface) Matters
Paper comes in smooth (hot-pressed), medium (cold-pressed), and rough textures. I find:
- Hot-pressed is smooth and great for detailed work or ink.
- Cold-pressed offers a balanced texture that holds water and pigment well, my go-to for watercolor and mixed media.
- Rough has a pronounced texture that adds character but can be tricky for fine details. I use rough paper when I want a more expressive look.
Acid-Free and Archival Quality
To ensure my artwork lasts, I always look for acid-free, archival-quality paper. This prevents yellowing and deterioration over time, keeping my pieces vibrant for years.
Pad or Single Sheets?
I prefer buying paper in pads for convenience and portability. Pads keep sheets protected and are easy to carry if I’m painting outdoors. However, for larger projects, individual sheets give me the flexibility to choose size and quality more precisely.
Budget vs. Quality
While I’m mindful of cost, I’ve learned that investing in quality paper makes a huge difference in the final look and durability of my art. For practice, I might use more affordable options, but for finished pieces, I always go for the best paper I can afford.
Final Tips
- Test a small piece first if you’re trying a new paper type.
- Match your paper choice to your easel size and adjust your working style accordingly.
- Store paper flat and in a dry place to avoid warping.
I hope my experience helps you find the perfect paper for your easel and creative projects!
Author Profile
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James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
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