Review on 🎨 Strathmore Paper 300 Series Watercolor Class Pack, Cold Press, 24 Sheets - Original Version by Nicole Mcleod

DO NOT BUY. Some areas of the paper have spots that do not absorb water or ink. It's like there's a waxy residue blocking the watercolor's absorption. This is very frustrating because you can't see those marks on the paper until you start painting and then it ruins the shape you make. I tried drawing a second sheet of this paper in case the first sheet was defective, but unfortunately the next sheet had the same problems. All the time and effort I put into sketching was wasted once I applied the paint. The watercolor moved on its own due to the wax stains hidden on the page. This paper begins to warp and warp with even the slightest amount of water. I used the third sheet and drew rectangles all over the paper. About 1/4 of my rectangles are not the same shape as I drew due to poor paper quality. I have attached photos to show examples. I've heard that Strathmore usually makes quality products, especially watercolor paper, but this sucks. I'm wondering if this is cheating. This paper is of very poor quality. I will spend a little more $$$ to get high quality Arches watercolor paper.