Cold Press? Hot Press? Rough? What’s the Diff?

Posted by artmentor on Feb-3-2009

Want an Easy Way to Remember the Difference between Hot Press Paper and Cold Press Paper?
Whether we are talking about watercolor paper sheets, watercolor panels, art board, watercolor blocks or pads - this tip will stick in your mind.

  • When you are cold, you get goose bumps. Cold Press papers have ‘tooth’ or slight texture.
  • When you are hot, your skin is very smooth. Hot Press papers are smooth.
  • And of course, Rough means rough. Rough papers have more tooth than cold press papers.

Drawing paper is usually labeled smooth, medium texture, rough and even ’super tooth’, but illustration boards like Crescent and Bainbridge brands still go by cold and hot press.

What’s the Difference Between a Plate and Vellum Surface?
These terms are used with bristol board and papers.

  • Vellum has more tooth, like cold press.
  • Plate is smooth, similar to hot press.
Posted in: ArtTIPS
  1. no imageJosé (Who am I?) Said,

    Hi,

    That’s a good mnemonic, especially for me who seldom uses watercolour.

    Kind regards,

    José

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    		3.5
  2. no imageartmentor (Who am I?) Said,

    My pleasure, José. I love sharing the good stuff.
    Thanks for reading.
    ~Wendy

    Rate this:
    		3.2
  3. naveed Said,

    thanks for ur use full information . but can u tell me that from what thing these watercolor papers made . and most important wich one surface is good for work from your opinion .

  4. Marian Said,

    Thanks for this little primer. I am a novice artist in paper craft and collage and this is extremely helpful as I try to navigate all the options out there.

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