BAOHONG Academy Grade Watercolor Block, 100% Cotton, Acid-Free, 140LB/300GSM, Cold Press Textured, 20 Sheets per Block (2 of Cold Press 10.2"x7" Block)

As a beginner in watercolors, I’ve often heard that while you can use inexpensive paints and brushes, you should never skimp on paper—always aim for the best quality you can afford. I also read that 100% cotton paper is ideal for achieving the best results. I already own a pad of Arches cold-pressed watercolor paper, but I didn’t want to “waste” it while I’m still learning the basics. That’s when I came across the BaoHong brand and decided to give it a try. They offer both artist-grade and student (academy) grade options. I chose the student grade, as both versions are 100% cotton. Wow, what a difference! Even as a beginner, I can tell this paper is leagues ahead of the non-cotton papers I was using before. It stays wet longer, allowing for smoother blending, and I’m seeing fewer harsh lines and edges. The texture feels very similar (if not identical) to higher-end papers I’ve tried. Overall, I’m genuinely impressed with BaoHong’s student-grade paper. If this is considered “student” quality, I can only imagine how incredible the artist-grade version must be. For anyone starting out in watercolor or looking for quality paper at a reasonable price, this is an absolute win!

These Blocks are very good. I love them

The 100% cotton paper handles water beautifully without warping. The texture is perfect for detailed work, and the block format keeps everything flat while I paint. Professional quality!

Good paper for practice. Am disappointed because it is 100% cotton and I expected it to be closer in quality to other good 100% cotton paper, but I guess the lower price is a good indicator of quality.

This is great paper for the price. It does have a bit of texture to it, and is not perfectly smooth. This means there tends to be more absorbency to the paper, which can be important depending on what you are doing with your watercolor. The paper is thick and feels like a good quality. I used gouache watercolor on this paper, and it turned out great with the color accuracy. The paper size is a bit odd for people in the US, and finding a frame for my work is proving to be difficult unless I go custom. The most difficult part is getting the page off once you are finished. The glue is well done on the edges, but it does mean you have to use a sharp xacto knife. You have to be very careful not to cut into the paper while getting the page off. Overall, I am very impressed with this paper compared to more expensive alternatives. I wish there were more sizes to choose from so I can more easily frame my pieces, but that is really the only complain that I have. For what it is, it is GREAT!

I love this brand of paper. It is such a good quality. This particular pack gave me the chance to see the difference between professional and student grade paper. It also gave me a chance to try a variety without having to invest in a full block. Yes buy this. It rivals another brand I have always said was my favorite. So much so I’m having to reevaluate what paper I like best.

Accepts watercolor beautifully. Excellent product!

I've been using this block for a couple months. I have now used 18 of the 20 included sheets. So, I've had sufficient experience with this 5 x 7 Academy block by Baohong. I like to do wet on wet and I like using watercolor blocks. I have tried several, and this is the first that has impressed me. Firstly, it comes with 20 sheets. Secondly, the texture is beautiful under my paintings. Thirdly, this is very much the nicest paper I've worked with. Yes, I use a lot of water. Yes, the paper does buckle a little, but not like others I've worked with. Yes, my work has become more complex and detailed than in the past and I'm always growing as an artist, but still, I think this paper improves the look of my work. A lot, my friend. However, I don't recommend you purchase this block. Why, you might ask? I bought this block to test the brand, and found I strongly prefer it over others I've tried. (Excluding expensive Arches.) Because I like it so much, I've purchased the full roll of Baohong Cold Pressed for a very reasonable price here on Amazon. I would recommend you purchase the roll yourself, but I know that's a big leap. I would suggest you purchase the Baohong Sample Pack to see if you also approve of the quality and then buy the roll if you find the paper to your liking. Additionally, I would like to end by letting you know I'm a legit watercolor supply snob. I prefer top quality. I use Daniel Smith paints and Princeton Aqua Elite brushes. If this sounds like you, you'll probably like this paper. If you're happy with the products you use, don't switch! Stay wet, my friend.

First time using this paper with water soluble graphite. Takes many layers, love that it is in a block so I don’t have to tape down to a board. Reasonably priced. I think this paper will now be my go to for watercolor.

Excellent paper and price

The quality of paper is so good

Why isn't there a letter opener? I heard from artists that it should be included in a Baohong block. Failing that use a butter knife to separate the pages after painting or even before if you prefer

This paper is a very good alternative to the more expensive Arches watercolour paper. You may find if you are a professional artist that Arches works better. As a non-professional I feel this paper is definitely one of the better alternatives for the cost.