Heavyweight artist paper promising a reliable surface for final artwork and confident layering. A vellum surface and acid-free 2-ply construction help colours stay true, and Strathmore 400 Series Bristol Paper gives a reassuring feel under the pencil. Will it suit professionals and students who need dependable pads for finished pieces?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Surface Texture: Vellum surface with a medium tooth for easy blending and controlled line work
- • Best for: Graphite, coloured pencil, pastel, pen and ink work requiring smooth finishes
- • Not ideal for: Heavy washes or fully saturated watercolour techniques
Heavyweight Bristol paper with a vellum surface and a medium texture. Acid-free 2-ply construction supplied in a 9x12 tape-bound pad of 15 sheets.
Smooth blending - thanks to vellum surface
Vellum surface and medium texture create a slight tooth that picks up dry media while allowing controlled gradients. The surface supports layering without excessive tooth grabbing.
Subtle tonal transitions and clean shading are easier to achieve with graphite, coloured pencil and pastel.
Sturdy support for layers - with acid-free 2-ply construction
Two-ply heavyweight sheets give structural stability that tolerates erasing and repeated layering. Acid-free composition reduces the chance of paper degradation over time.
Final artwork remains flatter and more durable, suitable for portfolio pieces and presentation.
Versatile media compatibility - with a heavyweight Bristol base
Heavyweight Bristol formulation accepts a wide range of dry and light wet media listed by the manufacturer, including pen, ink and airbrush. Tape-bound pad format keeps sheets accessible and organised.
Artists can switch between pencils, inks and light airbrush work without changing support.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Strathmore 400 Series Bristol Paper
- Vellum surface - Enables smooth blending and sharp ink lines with minimal feathering
- Acid-free 2-ply - Provides durable sheets that resist yellowing and hold layers
- Compatible media - Handles graphite, coloured pencil, pastel, pen, ink, airbrush reliably
- Tape-bound 9x12 pad - Keeps pages flat and intact; 15 sheets ready for finishing work
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Bristol paper
- Series: 400 Series
- Surface: Vellum, medium texture
- Construction: 2-ply, acid free
- Weight: Heavyweight (manufacturer describes as heavyweight)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What media are suitable for the paper?
A: Graphite, charcoal, sketching sticks, coloured pencil, pastel, pen, ink and airbrush are all listed as compatible. The vellum surface and medium texture support blending and shading.
Q: Is the pad suitable for finished artwork?
A: Yes. Heavyweight Bristol paper with a vellum surface is described specifically for final artwork and presentation. Acid-free 2-ply construction helps preserve finished pieces.
Q: How many sheets and what size is the pad?
A: The tape-bound pad contains 15 sheets sized 9 x 12 inches.
🏆 Our Verdict
Well suited to illustrators, students and hobbyists who layer dry media and need dependable final results. Vellum surface, medium texture and acid-free 2-ply construction combine for smooth blending and long-term stability. The compact 9x12 tape-bound pad with 15 heavyweight sheets delivers practical, lasting value for portfolios and study.
