Arches Watercolor Blocks

Arches Watercolor Blocks are full of 100% cotton paper of the highest quality that has been glued on all 4 sides. The convenience of painting on a block eliminates the need for stretching, so the paper is ready to use. Simply paint directly on the block and let the paper dry before removing.

Each Arches block contains durable acid-free, pH-neutral, and air-dried paper which has been sized to the core with natural gelatin sizing. If stored and handled properly, it will remain vibrant for centuries without conservation.

The beauty and quality of Arches watercolor papers make them suitable for watercolors, gouache, acrylics, drawing media, and ink. Blocks are not only for ideal for painting and plein air, but also work well for drawing as it provides a sturdy support surface to work on.

Manufactured in the same French mill since 1492, artists around the world have depended upon Arches for optimum quality papers, worthy of their finest work.

Please Note – Remove the protective black cover sheet to reveal the natural white paper within.

Cold Press – The cold press finish has a light texture and is the most common watercolor paper finish. It reflects light well, retaining the transparent quality of watercolors. A light tooth makes it easier to achieve certain details. Not just for watercolors, Arches Cold Press is also recommended for gouache, acrylic, dry drawing media, and airbrush.

Hot Press – The hot press finish is often used for portraits and illustration because the smoothness allows for fine details. With a minimal vellum texture, the character of the paper fades and digital scanning is easy. Not just for watercolors, Arches Hot Press is also recommended for gouache, acrylic, graphite, colored pencil, pen and ink, and technical pens.

Rough – The rough finish has an effect close to that of handmade paper and encourages a loose style. This rough tooth paper helps to achieve effects of texture and showcases granulating watercolors well. Not just for watercolors, Arches Roughﾠis also recommended for gouache, acrylic, charcoal, andﾠpastel.