Review on 📔 Strathmore 483-5 Softcover Watercolor Art Journal, 8x5.5, White, 24 Pages by Matthew Gomatham

The paper is surprisingly strong for a non-cotton material and holds water well. Several heavy washes can be used before the paper starts to warp. However, to compensate for the lack of cotton fibers, the paper was made much less absorbent, causing watercolor and ink to dry much more slowly. Wet-on-wet washing is very difficult because water "builds up" on the surface of the paper. Also, the paper on both sides is very different. One side has a smooth mechanical texture while the other has a somewhat raw paper texture, similar to paper fiber that has been wet torn and then hardened. The smooth side is slightly less absorbent than the other side and overall they behave a little differently. Although paper is a cold press surface, its low absorbency makes it seem suitable for detail work and light washing. However, given the price range and intended use as a sketchbook, this could be a good product for beginners interested in experimenting with watercolor.