Drawing Exercises

Whats the different between drawing and sketching paper ?

For my drawing class my teacher says we will need to get 18" X28" Cansons Biggie sketch pad, and 18"24" Charcoal paper/ or drawing paper. I found the biggie sketch pad paper, but couldn't find the charcoal paper, so I was looking for "drawing paper" But what exactly is drawing paper as opposed to sketch paper ?

Public Comments

1. The texture of the paper. Charcoal paper has a rougher texture to pull and hold the medium in place. Sketch paper is smooth
2. Cansons isn't "cheap"! Generally, "sketch" paper is not as heavy (and as expensive) as drawing paper. It could even be what we used to call newsprint -- manila paper -- or shiny "typewriter" (remember those writing instruments?) paper. Keep looking for specific charcoal paper. It's generally heavier and more textured. Charcoal drawings on lighter, smoother paper just don't have the same qualities. (The charcoal almost "slips off" the page.) Watercolor paper is very grainy -- and usually pretty costly. Good luck!
3. Sketch paper is usually smoother and cheaper. Drawing paper is a little sturdier, for more finished work. Charcoal paper is very textured. I have used the Strathmore version, and I don't like it because of the patterned tooth. It is more of a drawing paper. Here's a link to Canson's charcoal paper, but it's 19x24: http://www.dickblick.com/products/canson-charcoal-paper/ And here are more charcoal papers: http://www.dickblick.com/categories/charcoalpapers/ I like Dick Blick. Their prices are very good and shipping is usually quick.