5 Best Canvas Papers - Mar. 2023

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Bottom line

Pros

Cons

Thick, sturdy alternative to other canvas papers that allows for more layers, professional results.

Pros

Best emulates the feel of mounted canvas thanks to thicker, almost cardboard-like design. Easy to take out of the pad, and while mounting the paper is still recommended, stands up to moisture, oil and warping better than most. Excellent for mixed-media projects.

Cons

Some complaints that paint doesn't blend as well on this paper.

Best Bang for the Buck

Canson

XL 9x12 Oil and Acrylic Paper - 24 Sheets

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Easiest to Use

Bottom Line

Perfect canvas paper for mediums that do not always get love from sketchbook makers.

Pros

24 sheets for the price one pays for half that quantity of competitors. While canvas paper is typically used for practice, several buyers note that this can be archival with the proper love and care. Also great for pastels.

Cons

Despite advertised pre-priming, may benefit from a layer or two of gesso.

Strathmore

9x12 Canvas Paper - 10 Sheets

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Best for Practice

Bottom Line

Student-grade, ready-to-paint canvas paper from industry-leading brand in high-quality art supplies.

Pros

Excellent-quality paper that emulates canvas well. Strathmore's paper is a favorite for practicing artists who don't want to waste a mounted canvas on practice work. Heavy paper that can take several layers when properly prepared.

Cons

Paper predictably buckles with lots of paint/medium, although the impact can be mitigated by taping/clamping down paper.

Arteza

9x12 Artist's Canvas Paper

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Canvas First, Paper Second

Bottom Line

Canvas in the form of paper from artist-favorite bargain brand.

Pros

While many canvas papers are simply made to feel like canvas, Arteza made this out of the same materials as its canvas. Pre-primed for on the go artists, with special emphasis on the mixed-media possibilities for such a durable surface. Holds oil and acrylic better than most.

Cons

Despite heavy paper and canvas build, works best when mounted to a smooth surface. Extra priming optional but helpful.

US Art Supply Company

Canvas paper that's more canvas than paper.

Pros

Made from real cotton, meaning similar experience to painting on a standard stretched canvas, for a fraction of the price. Beloved brand for artists looking to get canvas experience with portability of a standard sketchbook. Absorbant material that can be archival with proper care.

Cons

Medium tooth makes impressionistic/realistic pieces more of a chore.

HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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