Flip the way you draw. The Art Spectrum Toned Paper Pad A4 in Black starts you in total darkness, and every mark you make is light. White charcoal, chalk and bright pastel absolutely glow against it.

Forty sheets of 250gsm black paper in A4 (210 x 297mm). It is the paper for night scenes, stars, neon, glowing flowers and any drawing where light is the hero.

Light on Dark

Drawing on black is a brilliant exercise because it reverses your instincts. Instead of shading shadows, you place light. Beginners often find it surprisingly freeing, and experienced artists use it to make bold, graphic work that stands out on any wall.

Bright pastels look almost luminous on black, especially yellows, pinks and turquoise. Pick a few vivid soft pastels and a white charcoal pencil and see what happens.

Why Black Paper Is So Much Fun

• Colours glow. Pastel and chalk look brighter on black than on any other ground.
• New way of seeing. Drawing light instead of shadow sharpens your observation.
• Instant drama. Simple drawings look bold and finished.
• Responsible paper. Acid free, FSC certified and carbon neutral.

How to Draw on Black Paper

Start with a white or pale pencil to sketch the shapes lightly. Build the brightest areas with firmer pressure and leave the paper black where there is no light. For colour, layer a pale base first and add the brighter colour over it so it stays vivid.

Pastel dust shows on black, so tap the pad gently to clear it rather than blowing across the sheet, and fix the drawing when done.

Questions About the Art Spectrum A4 Black Toned Pad