Top Craft Paper Picks for Every Creative Project
The Canson Mi-Teintes is our top pick for artists who need a versatile, textured paper that works with pastels, charcoal, and mixed media, but it may be too pricey for casual kids’ crafts.
Craft paper is a staple for endless creative projects, from cardmaking to scrapbooking and mixed media art. The right paper can make or break your project, affecting how your materials adhere and how your final piece looks.
We compared popular options based on specifications, owner reviews, and brand reputation. Our picks range from budget-friendly pads to premium sheets for professional artists.
Our top picks
Canson Mi-Teintes Pastel Paper Pad
This French-made paper is beloved for its distinctive laid texture and 98% cotton content. It holds up well to layering and erasing, making it a favorite among pastel artists. Owners report that the texture gives a beautiful tooth for chalk and charcoal, and it also works for wet media when stretched.
Pros
- Exceptional texture for pastels and charcoal
- Acid-free and archival quality
- Comes in a variety of colors
Cons
- More expensive than standard craft paper
- Not ideal for wet media without stretching
Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Paper Pad
Strathmore 400 Series is a reliable workhorse for artists who need a smooth, durable surface for pencil, pen, and marker. The medium tooth holds fine lines well and erases cleanly. It’s available in various sizes, and many users say it’s their go-to for practice and finished pieces.
Pros
- Smooth surface ideal for detailed work
- Takes erasing without damage
- Reasonable price for quality
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy wet media
- Only white available
Cricut Printable Sticker Paper
Made specifically for Cricut machines but works with any inkjet printer, this sticker paper is a top pick for DIY stickers. It has a matte finish that is writable and compatible with markers. The adhesive is strong but removable, and the paper cuts cleanly in a Cricut.
Pros
- Cuts cleanly in Cricut and Silhouette
- Strong adhesive that is repositionable
- No smudging with inkjet prints
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Requires compatible printer
Tru-Ray Sulphite Construction Paper
A classroom staple, Tru-Ray construction paper is durable and fade-resistant. It is heavier than standard construction paper, and the colors stay vibrant. Perfect for cutting, gluing, and folding, it is a safe choice for children’s art projects.
Pros
- Thick and durable for kids
- Fade-resistant colors
- Very affordable
Cons
- Not for fine art
- Limited texture options
Neenah Astrobrights Astropaque Cardstock
This 65 lb cardstock is a favorite among cardmakers for its smooth finish and excellent printability. It is thick enough to hold embellishments and folds cleanly. The bright white color makes colors pop, and it is compatible with most printers.
Pros
- Crisp folds without cracking
- Vibrant print quality
- Sturdy for 3D projects
Cons
- Limited to white and off-white
- May be too heavy for some printers
Fabriano Unica Mixed Media Pad
Fabriano Unica is a versatile paper that handles light washes of watercolor, acrylic, and marker without warping. The fine grain texture is subtle, and the paper is strong when wet. It is a great choice for artists who like to combine dry and wet media.
Pros
- Handles wet media with minimal buckling
- Works with a variety of mediums
- Archival quality
Cons
- Not heavy enough for heavy washes
- Slightly more expensive than comparable pads
Hahnemühle Watercolor Book
Hahnemühle is a prestigious German brand, and this watercolor book features 140 lb cold-pressed paper that is perfect for wet-on-wet techniques. The paper has a classic surface texture and resists buckling. Artists report that colors remain vibrant and blending is smooth.
Pros
- Excellent water absorption and control
- Durable enough for multiple washes
- Lay flat binding
Cons
- High price point
- Only white paper
How to pick the right one
Side by side
| # | Model | Weight | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canson Mi-Teintes Pastel Paper Pad | 98 lb / 160 gsm | Pastel and mixed media art | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Paper Pad | 80 lb / 130 gsm | Drawing and sketching | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Cricut Printable Sticker Paper | Matte sticker paper | Printable stickers and labels | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Tru-Ray Sulphite Construction Paper | 50 lb / 76 gsm | Kids’ crafts and school projects | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Neenah Astrobrights Astropaque Cardstock | 65 lb / 176 gsm | Cardmaking and invitations | 9.1 | Check price |
| 6 | Fabriano Unica Mixed Media Pad | 200 gsm | Mixed media and wet techniques | 9.0 | Check price |
| 7 | Hahnemühle Watercolor Book | 140 lb / 300 gsm | Watercolor painting | 9.3 | Check price |
Common questions
What is the best craft paper for children?
Tru-Ray Sulphite Construction Paper is an excellent choice for kids. It is thick, durable, and affordable, making it perfect for school projects and everyday crafts.
Can I use craft paper in a printer?
Many craft papers are printer-compatible, but check the packaging. Cardstock and sticker paper often work well in inkjet and laser printers, but text weight paper may jam.
What is the difference between cardstock and construction paper?
Cardstock is heavier and smoother, ideal for cardmaking and printing. Construction paper is lighter, more textured, and comes in bright colors, suited for kids’ crafts.
Is acid-free craft paper important?
Yes, acid-free paper is crucial for archival projects like scrapbooking and fine art. It prevents yellowing and deterioration, ensuring your creations last longer.
What paper is best for watercolor painting?
For watercolor, use heavy paper (at least 140 lb) with a cold-pressed or rough texture. Hahnemühle Watercolor Book is a top choice because it handles wet media without buckling.
Can I use regular printer paper for mixed media?
Regular printer paper is too thin for mixed media. It will warp and tear when wet. Use a mixed media paper like Fabriano Unica that can handle light washes and markers.
How do I choose paper for pastel drawing?
Pastels require paper with a textured surface to hold the pigment. Canson Mi-Teintes has a laid texture that is perfect for pastels, providing enough tooth for multiple layers.
What is the best paper for Cricut projects?
For Cricut, look for paper that cuts cleanly, such as Cricut Printable Sticker Paper or Neenah Astrobrights Cardstock. The cardstock is sturdy enough for intricate cuts without tearing.
Does paper weight affect print quality?
Yes, heavier paper tends to absorb ink better and produces sharper prints. For professional-looking prints, use at least 65 lb cardstock.
What is the best budget craft paper?
Tru-Ray Construction Paper is the best budget option for general crafting. It offers good quality at a low cost, making it ideal for schools and large projects.
Our pick
For most crafters, the Strathmore 400 Series offers the best balance of quality and price for drawing and everyday projects. If you primarily do pastel or mixed media, invest in Canson Mi-Teintes. For watercolor enthusiasts, Hahnemühle is worth the higher cost.
Jake Monroe
Jake worked as a residential contractor for over a decade before shifting to full-time writing. He evaluates power tools, hand tools and workshop gear through the lens of someone who has actually used them on job sites, not just read the box.
