This week we’re making a paper-testing book.
It’s a tiny book filled with different types of paper. You swatch your favorite materials on every page so you can compare them at a glance!
Why should you make a paper-testing book?
These books show how each paper behaves with art materials. A quick flip through your paper-testing book can help you make an informed decision, saving you time, energy, and paper!
Let’s say I’m going out with a water brush and Inktense blocks. A quick flip through my paper-testing book tells me the Jackson’s Hot Pressed paper didn’t like when I smudged it with fingers. The white Art Creations paper buckles with a drop of water, so that one is out too. Flipping to the next page, I see the Canson Fluid Mixed Media paper holds up nicely to loads of materials.
They’re easy to make. Here are the steps:
First, fold the book.
You can use printer paper for this, because it’s simply a container for the fancy papers you want to test. I made a quick tutorial at the bottom of this post, or you can watch this and follow along.
Now, gather all your paper types you want to include.
Cut pieces to match the size of your book, and make sure to label them. You can be as detailed as you want for this, so feel free to include specs if you find that helpful.
Glue them to the pages of your book.
I started with my least favorite papers, but you can order them however you like. Run out of space? Fold up another one and glue on more paper types.
Now the fun begins!
In our Paper Testing Party, Min Lee and I swatched many, many materials with no rules or expectations, just play. We had so much fun decorating our books and drawing together at the end. Join the fun and let us know which papers you love (and which ones you don’t)!
I recommend doing the blind paper test from Part 1 and add it to your book!
