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Arches

Arches Cold Press Watercolor Pad 12 Sheets

  • Paper Weight: 90
  • Material Type: Cotton
  • Paper Finish: Watercolor
  • Color: White Natural

Last refreshed Sep 7, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A professional-grade cotton watercolor pad meant for finished work, not a high-volume practice pad.

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ASIN: B086WSQV9HModel: A1795092Category: Watercolor Paper

Overview

A 12-sheet pad of Arches cold-press watercolor paper, 9 by 12 inches, made from 100 percent cotton for watercolor, gouache, ink or acrylic work.

Arches' distinction is the cotton fiber and the internal sizing, done through the sheet rather than just on its surface, which the maker says lets paint blend, layer or lift back off more evenly whether the paper is wet or dry. It's a smaller sheet count than most craft pads, which fits its positioning as a professional paper rather than a practice pad.

  • 9 x 12 inch cold-press pad, 12 sheets
  • 100% cotton, natural white
  • PH neutral, no optical brighteners
  • Edge-glued pad, sheets remove cleanly

Who it's for

Aimed at artists producing finished watercolor or mixed-media pieces who want cotton paper's handling. Overkill for a beginner just practicing washes on a budget.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • 100% cotton fiber for professional results
  • Sized through the sheet, not just the surface
  • Holds up to scratching, erasing and repeated washes
  • PH neutral with no optical brighteners
Cons
  • Only 12 sheets per pad
  • Priced above craft-grade paper pads

Performance notes

The cylinder mold process spreads cotton fibers evenly, which Arches says gives resistance to scratching and erasing without tearing, and lets the sheet slacken uniformly when wet so washes stay controllable. Sizing runs through the paper rather than only on top, keeping colors from soaking in unevenly.

Specifications

BrandArches
ModelA1795092
Dimensions & fit
Paper Weight90
Item Weight5.3 ounces
Paper Dimensions9 × 12 inches
Item Dimensions L x W12.2 × 9.1 inches
Construction & materials
Material TypeCotton
Paper FinishWatercolor
ColorWhite Natural
Included components
Number of Packs1
Unit Count12
Warranty & support
Warranty DescriptionNo warranty
Other details
Sheet Count12
Number of Items1
Recommended Uses For ProductArt, Painting, Watercolor
StyleClassical

Closest rivals on specs

Hahnemuhle Collection Watercolor 300 Pad 9x12
  • Item Weight 0.33 vs 0.51 pounds (-35%)
Canson XL Watercolor Wirebound Pad 7x10
  • Item Weight 0.33 vs 0.54 pounds (-39%)
Strathmore Watercolor Visual Journal 5.5x8
  • Item Weight 0.33 vs 0.63 pounds (-48%)
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Frequently asked questions

What makes Arches paper different from cheaper watercolor pads?

It's 100% cotton and sized through the full sheet, which the maker says gives more even wetting and better resistance to scratching or erasing.

How many sheets come in this pad?

12 sheets at 9x12 inches, cold press texture.

Can I use media other than watercolor on this paper?

Yes, it's also rated for gouache, ink and acrylic.