10 Best Watercolor Books 2025 in the United States

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.

The durable surface of the paper can withstand repeated washes, allowing for layers and corrections without damaging the paper, which is beneficial for both practice and final works. The paper is acid-free, ensuring that your artwork will not yellow or degrade over time, which speaks to the quality of the material. The natural white color and texture of the paper provide a consistent and reliable surface for a variety of art styles.

The pad's foldover binding makes it easy to handle and use, maintaining a clean workspace. Available in multiple sizes, it offers flexibility depending on your project needs. The Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad is a strong contender for its durable, high-quality paper and versatility across different materials.

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.

One standout feature is the cold-pressed textured surface that enhances the blending of colors and helps achieve clean lines. The acid-free nature of the paper also ensures that your artwork won’t fade over time, which is a great advantage for preserving your pieces. The linen-bound hardcover design adds durability, making these books resistant to daily wear and tear, while the elastic band closure keeps your projects protected from environmental factors.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The size might be limiting for those who prefer larger canvases to work on, especially for expansive watercolor techniques. While the textured finish is beneficial, some artists might find it less suitable for precision work that requires a smoother surface. Additionally, being a mixed media book, it may not excel in all types of media, so it's best suited for watercolor and sketching rather than heavy applications like oils or pastels.