100% Cotton Watercolour Pad
A4 (210 x 297mm) · 300gsm · 15 sheets · Rough
Same size, other surfaces: Hot Pressed · Cold Pressed
Same surface, other sizes: A5 · A3
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Landscape painters, this one is for you. The Art Spectrum A4 Rough Cotton Watercolour Pad has a bold, pronounced texture that catches pigment in its hollows and leaves sparkling whites on the peaks, giving rocks, bark, surf and grass a life of their own.

Each pad holds 15 sheets of 300gsm, 100% cotton paper in A4 (210 x 297mm), a size that gives texture room to show while staying easy to frame and carry.

★ Art Shed Staff Tip
Try the salt trick on rough paper. While a wash is still damp, sprinkle a few grains of coarse salt. Each grain pulls pigment into a tiny starburst. Brush the salt away when dry for snow, lichen or a starry night.
Perfect For
LandscapesSeascapesRocks and barkGranulating coloursSalt and texture effects

What Gives This Paper Its Character

Fibre
100% Cotton
Strong cotton fibre that keeps its texture crisp under repeated washes.
Surface
Rough
A heavy, irregular tooth that turns every stroke into broken colour and sparkle.
Weight
300gsm
Sturdy enough to carry heavy, juicy washes on a textured surface.
Manufacture
Cylinder Mould Made
Formed on a traditional cylinder mould for a stable, natural texture.

Every surface tells a different story. Hot pressed is quiet and precise. Cold pressed is a balanced all rounder. Rough is the loud one. Its texture breaks the line of the brush, so a single stroke can read as foliage, a stone wall or a choppy sea. Many traditional landscape painters use nothing else.

Art Spectrum developed this paper with the Magnani mill in Italy. It is acid free, museum grade archival, chlorine free and double sized with a plant based internal size and a synthetic tub size. The pads are made in Melbourne.

Why Landscape Painters Reach for Rough

  • Instant texture. Rocks, bark and grass practically paint themselves.
  • Granulation on show. Earth colours and ultramarines settle into the tooth beautifully.
  • Loose and expressive. Broken edges give paintings energy and movement.
  • Archival cotton. Acid free, no brighteners, ready for framing.

Getting Started on a Rough Surface

Use more water and more paint than you would on smoother paper, because the texture holds more. Paint big shapes first, then let the paper dry before adding a few dark accents. If an edge looks too broken, run a damp brush along it to soften it.

Rough paper pairs well with larger brushes and granulating paints. Browse our watercolour brushes and watercolour paints to build a landscape kit.

Questions About the Art Spectrum A4 Rough Cotton Watercolour Pad

What is the difference between rough and cold pressed watercolour paper?

Both are pressed without heat, but rough has a far deeper texture. Cold pressed is the balanced all rounder, while rough exaggerates texture, granulation and dry brush effects for bolder, more expressive results.

Is rough paper good for landscapes?

It is one of the best. The texture naturally suggests foliage, stone, water and earth, and it rewards loose painting. Many traditional landscape and seascape painters prefer rough paper.

Can I use masking fluid on rough paper?

Yes, but take care. Masking fluid settles into the texture, so apply a slightly thicker layer, make sure the paper is completely dry, and remove it gently. Always test on a scrap sheet first.

What is the salt technique in watercolour?

Sprinkle coarse salt into a damp wash and leave it to dry. Each grain draws pigment towards it, creating small starburst patterns. Brush the salt off once the paper is fully dry.

What does acid free mean for watercolour paper?

Acid free paper has a neutral or slightly alkaline pH, so it will not yellow, go brittle or damage the paint over time. Art Spectrum states this paper sits above pH 7 and is museum grade archival.

Is rough paper suitable for beginners?

Yes, especially for loose landscape painting. The texture is forgiving and makes results look lively. Beginners who want fine detail may prefer to start on cold pressed.

Where can I buy Art Spectrum A4 rough watercolour paper in Australia?

Art Shed Online is an authorised Australian stockist of Art Spectrum and ships fast Australia wide. Order online or come and see the paper at our Moorabbin store in Melbourne.

(AS666218)

SKU AS666218
Barcode # 9323926046114
Brand Art Spectrum
Shipping Weight 0.3640kg
Shipping Width 0.050m
Shipping Height 0.400m
Shipping Length 0.300m
Shipping Cubic 0.006000000m3

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