The Best Paper for Gouache (2024)

Emy Flint

I’m a self-taught artist who loves sharing tips and tutorials for painting with watercolor and gouache, and using the Procreate app on the iPad.

What is the best paper for gouache? If you’re new to painting with gouache, you might be confused about which paper to use with it. Learn about my favorite paper types for gouache.

Get more gouache painting tutorials here.

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The Best Paper for Gouache

The best paper for gouache needs to be thick enough to handle the paint.

Whatever you choose, choose paper that is made for art. I highly recommend avoiding craft-type paper, like cardstock. It will buckle, and the colors will appear dull when they dry.

How much water do you use with gouache?

If you use a lot of water with gouache, you will need thicker paper. In this case, I recommend using watercolor paper. This will keep the paper from buckling.

If you use very little water, you can get away with using mixed media paper or even bristol board.

Do you like textured paper?

Another personal preference is the paper texture. Most watercolor paper has a light texture (cold press).

If you prefer smoother paper, you can use hot-press watercolor paper, mixed media paper, or bristol board.

Do you prefer a sketchbook or loose paper?

I love painting in a sketchbook because it keeps everything contained in one place. However, if you display or sell your work, you will want loose paper instead.

My Favorite Paper Types for Gouache

These are my favorite papers to use with gouache.

Watercolor Paper

Watercolor paper is my favorite paper for gouache. It’s thick enough to withstand the paint and any amount of water that I want to use.

I also love the cold press texture.

If you’re a beginner, it’s okay to use a cheaper watercolor paper like this one. It’s not so precious that you’ll feel bad if you make mistakes or ugly art (it happens.)

Watercolor Sketchbooks

Gouache works great in a sketchbook. Since I paint mainly with watercolor paint, I prefer watercolor sketchbooks.

There are tons of sizes and shapes. Here are my favorite watercolor sketchbooks.

Mixed Media Paper

Mixed media paper works great with gouache. It has a smooth texture that can also be used with colored pencils or for drawing.

Mixed media paper is much thinner than watercolor paper or bristol board, so it’s unsuitable for use with a ton of water.

The paper started to break down when I added a 2nd layer, so keep that in mind. If you like layering, stick to watercolor paper.

This paper is my current favorite.

Bristol Board

Bristol board also has a smooth texture, but it’s way thicker. I still wouldn’t use it with a ton of water, though.

Acrylic Paper

Acrylic paper has a texture that is similar to canvas without the expense of canvas. As the name implies, it can also be used with acrylic paint.

It can take a lot more water and paint, but it has an obvious texture that might affect your artwork.

I really love this brand.

What Can You Use Gouache On?

Typically, gouache is used on thick paper.

However, gouache can also be used on a variety of surfaces, including hardboard panels, wood panels, canvas, and canvas boards.

Keep in mind that some surfaces are easier and more pleasant to work on than others.

For instance, a hardboard panel isn’t enjoyable to paint on since it’s so slick. Wood panels need multiple coats because the paint will soak in more.

Canvas has a texture that might make painting less than pleasant.

Can You Use Gouache on Canvas?

Yes, you can use gouache on canvas.

For the best results, I would prime the surface first (even if it’s pre-primed.) This should help tone down the canvas texture a bit.

If this is your first time painting on canvas with gouache, choose a small canvas or even a canvas board!