Stonehenge Aqua Watercolor Paper Review and link for samples

I’m rethinking the type of watercolor papers I want to use for my work.  I’ve been using either Fabriano Artistico Soft Press or Arches Cold and Hot Press for several years.  I was one of the lucky ones that received a sample of Stonehenge Aqua Watercolor Paper.   Stonehenge paper is my to go to paper for printmaking, it’s my favorite.  The new watercolor paper is fabulous.  Here's the link for a watercolor sample: http://www.legionpaper.com/aqua-samples/

 

 

Stonehenge sent three sheets (300 lb rough, 140 lb cold press, and 140 lb hot press) to try out.  So far I haven’t seen it for sale on the Dick Blick website yet but I have seen them on Hyatt’s website.  I have read that there will also be blocks and 22x30 sheets.

 

 

I normally work very wet but this is more of an illustration that I'd use Hot Press.  I thought I'd mixed it up some.  One of the major things I look for is how paper handle ink and tape.  Tape has a habit of pulling or tearing up the paper.  Stonehenge passed the tape test.  I used Koh-I-Noor Rapidograph Ultradraw Waterproof Ink, which will feather on some papers.  The paper didn't feather and it was a quick dry so the sizing is workable but did not hinder my work.  So the Cold Press passed my ink test.  Arches doesn't for me but Fabriano Artistico Soft Press is my go to paper for ink.

 

 

I loved working on this texture plus it passed my ink test, I'm overjoyed.  Mistake correction is good, just a clean wet brush and paper towel. No buckling but I will need to work a bit wetter to say that's this doesn't occur.  The next test will be glazing as well.

 

Here's the typical fine print, Stonehenge Aqua Paper:

◾100% Cotton

◾Neutral pH

◾Acid Free

◾Chlorine Free

◾2 deckles, 2 cut edges (sheets)

◾Sized for watercolor

◾Superior quality

Laters....
~Moon