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10 Best Watercolor Books 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad, Heavyweight White Paper, Foldover Binding, 30 Sheets, 9x12 inch
The Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad offers a solid option for both beginners and more experienced artists. The pad features cold press textured paper, which is ideal for watercolor painting but also versatile enough for use with acrylics, pen & ink, markers, colored pencils, pencils, charcoal, and pastels. This versatility makes it an attractive choice for artists who work with multiple mediums.
#2
U.S. Art Supply 5.5" x 8.5" Watercolor Book, 2 Pack, 76 Sheets, 110 lb (230 GSM) - Linen-Bound Hardcover Artists Paper Pads - Acid-Free, Cold-Pressed, Brush Painting & Drawing Sketchbook Mixed Media
The U.S. Art Supply Watercolor Book set is a solid choice for artists of various skill levels, whether you're a beginner or more experienced. With its compact size of 5.5" x 8.5" and included two-pack, this product is convenient for travel and on-the-go sketching. Each book is filled with 76 sheets of heavyweight 110 lb (230 GSM) paper, which is thick enough to handle watercolors without bleed-through, making it suitable for both wet and dry media.
Rating
9.8
Skill Level
Format and Layout
Most important from
1902 reviews
#3
Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More
The Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch is a top-tier choice for watercolor artists, whether beginners or professionals. One of its biggest strengths is the use of 100% cotton paper, which ensures a luxurious feel and excellent durability. The cold press texture allows for great moisture absorption, giving artists control over their paints. The paper's unique gelatin sizing prevents colors from bleeding and enhances blending, making it ideal for various techniques. Additionally, the pH-neutral quality helps preserve artworks over time without the risk of yellowing, which is essential for anyone serious about their craft.
Rating
9.6
Skill Level
Style of Painting
Format and Layout
Most important from
7480 reviews
Top 10 Best Watercolor Books 2025 in the United States
Sponsored
#1
Winner
9.9 score
Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad, Heavyweight White Paper, Foldover Binding, 30 Sheets, 9x12 inch
Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad, Heavyweight White Paper, Foldover Binding, 30 Sheets, 9x12 inch
Skill Level: beginners and experienced artists
Style of Painting: watercolor
Format and Layout: foldover binding
Chosen by 1154 this week
Sponsored
U.S. Art Supply 5.5" x 8.5" Watercolor Book, 2 Pack, 76 Sheets, 110 lb (230 GSM) - Linen-Bound Hardcover Artists Paper Pads - Acid-Free, Cold-Pressed, Brush Painting & Drawing Sketchbook Mixed Media
U.S. Art Supply 5.5" x 8.5" Watercolor Book, 2 Pack, 76 Sheets, 110 lb (230 GSM) - Linen-Bound Hardcover Artists Paper Pads - Acid-Free, Cold-Pressed, Brush Painting & Drawing Sketchbook Mixed Media
Skill Level: Various levels
Style of Painting: Watercolor
Format and Layout: 5.5" x 8.5", 76 sheets, 110 lb paper
Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More
Arches Watercolor Pad 9x12-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 12 Sheet Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press Pad - Arches Art Paper for Watercolor Gouache Ink Acrylic and More
Skill Level: Beginners or professionals
Content Type: Watercolor
Style of Painting: Watercolor, gouache, ink
Format and Layout: 9x12-inch, sheets easily removed
Moleskine Art Watercolor Album, Hard Cover, Large (5" x 8.25") Plain/Blank, Black, 72 Pages
Moleskine Art Watercolor Album, Hard Cover, Large (5" x 8.25") Plain/Blank, Black, 72 Pages
Skill Level: various levels
Content Type: watercolor techniques
Format and Layout: 5" x 8.25"
Canson XL Series Watercolor Paper, Wirebound Pad, 7x10 inches, 30 Sheets (140lb/300g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students - Watercolors, Mixed Media, Markers and Art Journaling
Canson XL Series Watercolor Paper, Wirebound Pad, 7x10 inches, 30 Sheets (140lb/300g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students - Watercolors, Mixed Media, Markers and Art Journaling
Skill Level: beginners to advanced artists
Content Type: watercolor and mixed media
Style of Painting: watercolor
Format and Layout: wirebound pad
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Arches Watercolor Travel Journal 6x10-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 15 Sheets of Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press - Arches Watercolor Journal for Gouache Ink Acrylic and More
Arches Watercolor Travel Journal 6x10-inch Natural White 100% Cotton Paper - 15 Sheets of Arches Watercolor Paper 140 lb Cold Press - Arches Watercolor Journal for Gouache Ink Acrylic and More
Skill Level: Experienced artists
Content Type: Watercolor, gouache, ink, acrylic
Style of Painting: Plein air
Format and Layout: 6x10-inch, 15 sheets, 140 lb
Strathmore (467-8 STR-467-8 48 Sheet No 140 Watercolor Art Journal, 8.5 by 11", 8.5"x11", White, 24
Strathmore (467-8 STR-467-8 48 Sheet No 140 Watercolor Art Journal, 8.5 by 11", 8.5"x11", White, 24
Skill Level: beginners and advanced artists
Content Type: watercolor, gouache, acrylic paints
Style of Painting: intermediate watercolor
Format and Layout: 48 sheets, 8.5 x 11 inches
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Buying Guide for the Best Watercolor Books
Choosing the right watercolor book can greatly enhance your painting skills and provide you with valuable techniques and inspiration. When selecting a watercolor book, consider your skill level, the type of content you are looking for, and the style of watercolor painting you are interested in. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.Skill LevelWatercolor books are often tailored to different skill levels, such as beginner, intermediate, or advanced. This specification is important because it ensures that the content is appropriate for your current abilities. Beginners should look for books that cover basic techniques and foundational skills, while intermediate and advanced artists might seek books that offer more complex techniques and creative challenges. Assess your own skill level honestly to choose a book that will help you grow without overwhelming you.
Content TypeThe type of content in a watercolor book can vary widely, including step-by-step tutorials, technique guides, project-based learning, or inspirational galleries. This specification is important because it aligns the book's content with your learning preferences and goals. If you prefer structured learning, look for books with clear tutorials and exercises. If you seek inspiration, choose books with a focus on showcasing different artists' works and styles. Determine what type of content will best support your artistic journey.
Style of PaintingWatercolor books can focus on different styles of painting, such as realistic, abstract, botanical, landscape, or portrait. This specification is important because it helps you find a book that matches your artistic interests and the subjects you enjoy painting. If you are passionate about painting nature, look for books that specialize in botanical or landscape watercolor. If you enjoy experimenting with shapes and colors, an abstract watercolor book might be more suitable. Identify your preferred style to find a book that resonates with you.
Author ExpertiseThe expertise and reputation of the author can greatly influence the quality of a watercolor book. This specification is important because experienced and well-known authors are likely to provide valuable insights and reliable techniques. Look for books written by authors who are recognized in the watercolor community, have a strong portfolio, or have received positive reviews from other artists. Research the author's background to ensure they have the expertise to guide you effectively.
Illustrations and ExamplesThe quality and quantity of illustrations and examples in a watercolor book are crucial for visual learning. This specification is important because clear and detailed images can help you understand techniques better and provide inspiration. Books with high-quality illustrations and step-by-step visual guides are particularly helpful for beginners. Consider flipping through the book or checking reviews to ensure the illustrations meet your expectations and learning needs.
Format and LayoutThe format and layout of a watercolor book can affect how easy it is to use and follow. This specification is important because a well-organized book with a clear layout can enhance your learning experience. Look for books with a logical progression of topics, easy-to-read text, and a balance of images and instructions. Some books may also come in different formats, such as hardcover, paperback, or digital. Choose a format that suits your reading preferences and how you plan to use the book.