Paper For Oil Painting

Let's explore painting with oil on paper, what type of paper is required, and how to paint on it.

Curious about oil painting on paper?

Learn more about this versatile painting surface.

Can You Do Oil Painting On Paper?

Yes, you can do oil painting on paper that is specially formulated for oil paints.

What Type of Paper Can Be Used For Oil Painting?

Paper that is specially designed for oil painting is the best choice. Greasy rings will form in most other papers as the oil seeps into the paper fibers. Most paper is not suitable for oil painting.

What Is Oil Painting Paper Called?

Arches Huile Oil Paper is an art paper specially designed for oil painting. Other brands are available. Most seem to be called oil paper.

Why Paint With Oil Paint on Paper?

There are several benefits of doing oil paintings or oil sketches on paper. Oil paintings on paper are lightweight and easy to transport. The paper has a slight texture making it similar to painting on canvas. It's a time-saver because it needs no preparation before painting and is easy to cut to size. It's nice to paint on and a space-saver. Finished paintings on paper typically require less space than stretched canvas or wood painting panels. Works on paper can be stored flat in a drawer. One con might be the framing costs and the method required to display or preserve works on paper.

How To Paint With Oil on Paper?

The painting process for painting on Arches oil paper is the same as painting on canvas or panel. There's no need to change or modify techniques. Cut the paper to size and begin painting.

Can You Paint On Unprimed Paper?

Oil paints contain oil. Oil paint will seep into most unprimed papers affecting the paper fibers. Therefore most unprimed papers will be undesirable painting surfaces. Gesso can be applied to stretched paper. The stretching process allows the paper to handle the moisture in the gesso. The gesso primes, seals, and prepares the surface to accept paint. Gesso on paper works well for acrylic paint, ink, and other multi-media. However, oil painters would be well-advised to purchase paper made and designed for oil painting. Oil paint sits on top Arches oil paper thanks to a unique sizing and oil barrier.

Conclusion:

You can do an oil painting on paper when you use Arches oil paper. This specially designed paper makes it easy to create oil paintings on paper.

Author: Sonia Reeder-Jones