GLOSSARY The following features are characteristic of quality papers, and will assist in paper
selection.
100% COTTON
The cotton makes the paper highly
resistant and soft to the touch, as well as enhancing its
ability to absorb liquids. As a result 100% cotton paper is
particularly suitable for washes.
ACID FREE
Acid free paper guarantees resistance
and stability. Only paper manufactured using acid free
materials will retain its original quality and whiteness over
time.
BOARD
Medium pasted on a carton base for drawing
and making mounting boards for framing. Such media are
certified for High Conservation Quality.
BUFFERING
Calcium carbonate is added to the paper
in the pulp stage, increasing the alkalinity of the paper as
a defense against environmental acids.
CANVAS TEXTURE
A paper reproducing the texture
of linen fabric, ready for use in oil or acrylic painting.
COATED
Paper having undergone chemical
(coating consisting of talc, kaolin, etc.) and mechanical
(calendering) processes to improve its surface quality.
COLD PRESS
Light texture, the most common on
account of its ease of use. It reflects light well, retaining
the transparent quality of watercolors. A light grain makes
it easier to achieve certain details.
CYLINDER MOULD
Very high quality traditional
manufacturing process, allowing even, natural distribution
of plant fibres, yielding very robust paper with a natural
grain, close to handmade paper. The edges of the sheets
are “deckled”, having been “torn” by hand.
DECKLE EDGES
Irregular edges, which provide a
traditional, hand-made look to the paper, deckle edges
can be made on the paper machine or by tearing the
paper.
DPI
(Dots per inch) or the number of pixels covered by
a square inch, indicating:- scanner or picture definition;-
printer resolution.
FINE GRAIN
A light imprint on the surface of the sheet
creating a delicate texture, showing off the drawing at its
best and giving the artist a welcome range of effects.
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FINISH
Finishes include cold press, rough, and hot
press. Cold press is the most popular, and is created
when the