Strathmore Paper

Reggie Gómez
19 min readMar 18, 2024

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If you’re a fan of high-quality paper products, you’ll be thrilled to learn about Strathmore Paper. This reputable brand has been crafting exquisite paper products for years, and they’ve mastered the art of creating stunning and versatile paper solutions for any task or occasion.

The Top 12 Best Strathmore Paper

  1. Quality Smooth Bristol Paper Pad for Art and Craft — Invest in Strathmore 300 Series 20-sheet, 19x24 inch, smooth bristol pad for premium art and craft supplies designed for various pen, ink, and dry media applications.
  2. Strathmore Charcoal Paper: Timeless Quality for Artists — Experience superior shading control and long-lasting, vibrant artwork with the premium Strathmore 500 Series Charcoal Paper, ideal for charcoal pastel and mixed dry media enthusiasts.
  3. Premium Charcoal Paper by Strathmore — Create stunning artworks with Strathmore 500 Series Charcoal Paper, a premium 100% cotton fiber, acid-free paper designed for charcoal, pastel, and mixed dry media enthusiasts.
  4. High-Quality Gray Scale Paper for Charcoal Artistry — Strathmore’s Assorted Tints Gray Scale Paper Pad offers a versatile range of 9x12" shades for art and craft projects, ideal for value studies with various mediums and suitable for mature artists, making it an excellent choice for your drawing essentials.
  5. High-Quality Textured Synthetic Art Paper — Experience the perfect blend of texture and print quality with Strathmore’s 80lb 25-sheet Inkjet Paper — the ultimate canvas for your creative digital creations!
  6. Strathmore 80lb Cardstock — Luxurious 30% Recycled Natural White Linen Paper — Elevate your projects with JAM Paper Strathmore 80lb Cardstock, featuring eco-friendly recycled content in a luxurious linen finish and natural white color that shines through.
  7. Smooth Parchment Paper Sheets (50 pieces) — Experience the versatile and artistic touch of Strathmore Parchment Series 200 Pad — perfect for invitations, certifications, and stationery projects.
  8. Strathmore 400 Series Marker Pad: Smooth, Bleed-Bight Resistance for Vibrant Artwork — Experience the smoothness of Strathmore’s 400 Series Marker Pad with its acid-free, bleed-resistant design for vibrant colors and efficient blending.
  9. High-Quality Strathmore Blank Writing Paper Pad with Glue Binding in Letter Size — Elevate your writing experience with the Strathmore Writing Pad — the premium, 24 lb. paper that delivers seamless, natural handwriting results in both 6 x 8 and 8.5 x 11 inch formats.
  10. Strathmore Pastel Paper Pad: Versatile and Suitable for Scrapbooking — Strathmore Assorted Color Pastel Paper Pad: Pair your creative vision with the exceptional quality of this 24-sheet pastel pad, perfect for both scrapbooking and professional-level projects with its diverse assortment of colors and made in the USA!
  11. Strathmore Watercolor Inkjet Paper: Perfect for High-Quality Inkjet Printing — Transform inkjet prints into stunning watercolor-like paintings with Strathmore Watercolor Inkjet Paper, a high-quality, heavy-weight paper designed for superior accuracy and longevity.
  12. Strathmore Medium Drawing Spiral Paper Pad — 12"x18", 24 Sheets, USA Made — Elevate your sketching game with Strathmore’s high-quality, versatile 12x18 inch drawing paper pad, perfect for a variety of artistic mediums and designed for seamless storage and removal.

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Reviews

🔗Quality Smooth Bristol Paper Pad for Art and Craft

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I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Strathmore 300 Series Smooth Bristol Pad, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer in my art and craft supplies arsenal. The moment I touched the paper, I was struck by its silky smoothness, which made it a joy to work with. As someone who loves to experiment with different mediums, I found that this pad was versatile enough for a wide range of dry art mediums, from pencils and charcoal to art markers and even colored pencils.

One of the standout features of this paper is its thickness — at 2-ply bristol weight, it’s sturdy enough to handle even the most demanding materials. I particularly enjoyed using it for pen and ink, as it allowed me to create detailed line work without having to worry about the paper buckling or smudging.

However, no product is without its drawbacks, and this pad was no exception. I noticed a bit of bleeding when using certain markers and ink, which may be an issue for some users. Additionally, the pad’s thickness also meant that it took a bit longer to rip out individual sheets compared to some other brands.

Despite these minor drawbacks, I’ve found the Strathmore 300 Series Smooth Bristol Pad to be an excellent addition to my art supplies. Its quality and versatility make it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced artists alike, and I have no doubt it will continue to be a trusted companion in my creative endeavors. So, if you’re looking for a reliable, smooth, and durable paper that can stand up to a variety of dry art mediums, I highly recommend giving this pad a try.

🔗Strathmore Charcoal Paper: Timeless Quality for Artists

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My journey with the Strathmore 500 Series Charcoal Paper began with the need for a reliable, high-quality drawing surface for my charcoal and pastel artwork. I’ve been using this paper for quite some time now and have grown fond of its unique texture that accommodates a variety of dry art mediums. Made from 100% cotton fiber, the paper has a traditional laid finish that provides the precise shading control required for these media.

The paper’s thin yet delicate nature adds a touch of charm, but requires careful handling, especially when dealing with pastels. It tends to dimple without proper care and can be quite tricky to manage when using certain techniques. The backside of the paper features a smoother surface with a faint pattern, which limits it to one-sided use for charcoal work. Luckily, I found that the front side offers just the right toothy texture for creating beautiful texture in my charcoal drawings.

One of the standout features of this paper is its acid-free nature, ensuring that my finished pieces won’t yellow over time. Additionally, the color selection available ranges from unique neutral grays to dark blacks, catering to diverse artistic styles. However, I’ve also experienced occasional unavailability of certain colors and have encountered issues with shipping back orders.

All in all, the Strathmore 500 Series Charcoal Paper has its flaws, such as the occasional difficulty in handling and challenges with shipping. However, the positives, like the high-quality material and texture, make it an excellent choice for charcoal and pastel artists seeking a reliable drawing surface. If you can overlook the flaws and appreciate the unique attributes, you’ll likely find this paper as enjoyable to work with as I do.

🔗Premium Charcoal Paper by Strathmore

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I recently decided to venture into the world of charcoal drawing, and as a beginner, I wanted to invest in some quality materials. I ended up purchasing a 25-sheet pack of Strathmore 500 Series Professional Quality Charcoal Paper in black, and I must say, my experience with this product has been quite positive!

The first thing I noticed about the Charcoal Paper was its texture — it had a distinctive ‘laid’ finish that provided the perfect grip for my charcoal pencils. The paper is thin, which means it requires a delicate touch, but it managed to capture the subtlety and depth of the charcoal strokes brilliantly.

One drawback I encountered was that the black side of the paper has a slight pattern on the back that is visible through the charcoal unless the surface is fully covered. However, I found that it didn’t interfere much with my artwork. Additionally, the paper is acid-free, which means it’s archival and can be stored for an extended period without worrying about discoloration.

As for the color, Strathmore managed to produce a very accurate black tone, which allowed for a wide range of shading and blending possibilities. I particularly appreciated that this paper came in a 25-pack, since I didn’t have to buy a huge bulk at once.

One of my favorite attributes of Strathmore 500 Series Charcoal Paper is its versatility. I soon discovered that it also worked exceptionally well with pastels and mixed dry media, making it a perfect choice for my diverse artistic endeavors.

Overall, my experience with the Strathmore 500 Series Charcoal Paper has been quite pleasant, and it has definitely helped me elevate my charcoal drawing skills. I would highly recommend this product to both beginners and experienced artists who are looking for high-quality art supplies.

🔗High-Quality Gray Scale Paper for Charcoal Artistry

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I recently gave Strathmore’s gray scale paper a try for a charcoal life drawing session I was leading, and I was pleased with the results. The paper has a nice texture, perfect for charcoal drawings, and it’s heavy enough to handle the pressure from charcoal sticks without tearing.

One of the standout features of this paper is its gray scale range, including white, black, and three intermediate greys. This makes it perfect for value studies, as the different shades of gray really help you to understand the nuances of light and dark. It’s also acid-free, which is great for finished artworks.

However, I do want to mention a potential drawback: the texture of the paper could be a bit off-putting for some users. It’s not a smooth, clean surface, but rather one with a bit of roughness, which some may find pleasing and others may not.

Overall, I had a great experience using Strathmore’s gray scale paper. It offered a high-quality, versatile surface for charcoal drawings, and its gray scale range made it perfect for value studies. Despite the slightly rough texture, it’s a product I would definitely consider using again.

🔗High-Quality Textured Synthetic Art Paper

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Strathmore Inkjet Paper Texture 8.5"x11" 80lb 25 Sheets: An Unforgettable Art Experience

When I first started using the Strathmore Inkjet Paper Texture 8.5"x11" 80lb 25 Sheets, I was immediately drawn to the authentic feel it offered, akin to traditional watercolor or pastel art. Its texture helped to give depth and character to my digital prints, allowing me to capture the essence of my original artworks.

One of the most significant features I appreciated was the ability to print high-quality vibrant colors. The texture didn’t compromise the vibrancy of my prints, allowing me to create stunning artwork with a tactile feel. It was also an advantage when I needed to print photographs since the textured surface added a unique texture to the image, giving it an authenticity that traditional prints couldn’t match.

However, there were a few downsides. One of the main concerns was its price. While it was certainly affordable compared to high-quality art papers, for someone who needed to consistently print on this type of paper, the cost would add up.

Additionally, feeding the paper into my printer was sometimes challenging. The thick texture of the paper meant that it didn’t always feed through automatically, causing some disruption to my printing process. I had to adjust my printer’s settings several times before I found the right settings to ensure smooth and hassle-free printing.

Despite these minor inconveniences, the Strathmore Inkjet Paper Texture 8.5"x11" 80lb 25 Sheets delivered a high-quality art experience. It was a true joy to work with, and the rich colors and textures it offered were far more than expected. Overall, it was a product worth considering for anyone looking to transform their digital art into tangible, tactile masterpieces.

🔗Strathmore 80lb Cardstock — Luxurious 30% Recycled Natural White Linen Paper

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As a stationery enthusiast, I was delighted to try out the JAM Paper Strathmore 80lb Cardstock. Its natural white linen color and premium solid core have exceeded my expectations for a paper of this caliber. The cardstock has a luxurious feel and a linen finish that adds an elegant touch to any project.

One of the standout features of this cardstock is its versatility in terms of projects. It is ideal for creating newsletters, brochures, invitations, announcements, flyers, forms, and more. Although it might not be the best choice for more strenuous tasks, it works perfectly for everyday stationery needs.

On the downside, the cardstock is relatively lightweight compared to its competitors. However, this issue is not crucial if you’re looking for a more sophisticated touch to your projects. One of the cons is also the price, as it is quite expensive for the size and quality of the cardstock.

In conclusion, the JAM Paper Strathmore Cardstock is a high-quality, eco-friendly, and versatile paper that is perfect for various stationery needs. The linen finish adds a touch of luxury, and the natural white color is suitable for any occasion. While the price point may be a drawback for some users, the paper’s premium feel and luxurious look make it worth considering for your stationery projects.

🔗Smooth Parchment Paper Sheets (50 pieces)

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As a lover of all things stationery, I’ve tried my fair share of paper options. But the Strathmore Parchment Series 200 Pad, with its smooth parchment-toned paper, has quickly become my go-to for creating stunning artwork, crafting invitations, and designing certificates.

The lightweight 60 lb. sheets are perfect for printing without any unsightly ink blots, and the acid-free paper ensures that my creations won’t yellow over time. The package’s dimensions are a convenient size for storage and the 50-sheet pad is more than enough for my everyday needs.

However, one thing to note that could be improved is the availability of different sizes, as the current option caters for A4 size and above. Nonetheless, this parchment paper definitely earns a spot in my stationery arsenal for its durability, even ink flow, and versatility.

🔗Strathmore 400 Series Marker Pad: Smooth, Bleed-Bight Resistance for Vibrant Artwork

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I recently tried out the Strathmore Marker Pad and I must say, it has become my go-to for marker drawing. The ultra-smooth surface effortlessly glides along with the stroke of your markers, giving you that crisp, clean line. The thicker sheets make it perfect for layering, blending, and bringing my artwork to life with vibrant colors. Plus, the papers are acid-free, ensuring the colors stay bright and true to form.

One thing that came as a pleasant surprise was the durability of the paper. It’s sturdy enough to support my favorite alcohol markers without any bleeding or feathering. While the pages are easily tearable, I’ve found that they hold together quite nicely, with minimal fraying. I’ve also noticed that the binding is strong enough to keep the pages intact while flipping through, which is a plus.

However, there’s a tiny downside to this otherwise great product. In certain instances, I’ve experienced slight bleeding, especially when I apply a heavy amount of ink in one area. But considering the price and the quality, it’s a small price to pay.

All in all, the Strathmore Marker Pad is a great choice for artists looking for a versatile and high-quality paper for their marker work. It’s a bit more expensive than some other brands, but it’s well worth the investment in terms of the quality and performance of the paper. So, if you’re on the hunt for the perfect marker paper, this one should definitely be on your radar.

🔗High-Quality Strathmore Blank Writing Paper Pad with Glue Binding in Letter Size

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I’ve been using this Strathmore Writing Paper Pad in my daily life, and I must say the experience has been pretty satisfying. The paper’s natural white color and 24 lb. (90gsm) weight make it perfect for those who appreciate a smooth writing surface. One thing that stands out is the glue top, flip-over cover, which allows me to easily remove a sheet from the pad without any hassle.

However, there’s one aspect that I found a bit disappointing. The paper is slightly thin, and I noticed that the glue binding can sometimes come apart, especially after prolonged use. But overall, it’s a minor issue considering the product’s quality.

When it comes to writing with a fountain pen, this Strathmore Writing Paper Pad really shines. The paper doesn’t feather, and there’s minimal bleed-through, which is a huge plus for those who prefer using fountain pens for their daily note-taking.

The price point is a bit high, but I believe it’s justified given the product’s quality and performance. If you’re an avid fountain pen user looking for paper that delivers a great writing experience, this Strathmore Writing Paper Pad is definitely worth considering.

🔗Strathmore Pastel Paper Pad: Versatile and Suitable for Scrapbooking

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I recently tried out the Strathmore Assorted Color Pastel Paper Pad and I have to say, it exceeded my expectations. The 24 sheets of paper come in a variety of beautiful colors and are perfect for any scrapbooking project or to experiment with different backgrounds.

One of the things that stood out the most is the paper’s quality. Made in the USA, the paper has a natural and pleasing texture, which really comes to life when using dry or oil pastels. The paper is both sturdy and has a smooth finish that makes blending and erasing easy.

While I really enjoyed working with this paper, there was one drawback — it could be a little finer tooth. Sometimes, it showed where I didn’t want it to, which I believe was more due to my skill level than the paper itself.

Overall, I had a great experience using the Strathmore Assorted Color Pastel Paper Pad and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for versatile and high-quality paper for their scrapbooking or art projects. It’s a great investment for the price and provides a sturdy and smooth canvas for your creations.

🔗Strathmore Watercolor Inkjet Paper: Perfect for High-Quality Inkjet Printing

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As an artist looking for the perfect inkjet paper, I stumbled upon the Strathmore Watercolor Inkjet Paper. The 140 lb. weight was ideal for replicating original works of art like watercolor and mixed media paintings. I loved the paper’s medium textured surface, which allowed me to create beautiful, vivid prints with stunning detail.

One of my favorite aspects was its acid- and lignin-free composition, ensuring that my artwork would last for years. However, I did notice that using it in a cylinder feeding inkjet printer led to slightly inconsistent results due to its stiffness and thickness.

Despite this minor issue, I continued using this versatile paper in my personal projects and even gifted it to fellow artists. The 8 sheets per pack made it a practical and convenient option, and the compatibility with both dye and pigment inkjet systems expanded its usability.

Overall, the Strathmore Watercolor Inkjet Paper surpassed my expectations and provided a seamless printing experience for inkjet enthusiasts, making it an excellent addition to my arsenal of artist supplies.

🔗Strathmore Medium Drawing Spiral Paper Pad — 12"x18", 24 Sheets, USA Made

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As an artist, I’ve always been on the lookout for a versatile and high-quality drawing paper. That’s when I came across the Strathmore Medium Drawing Spiral Paper Pad. It’s a spiral-bound drawing pad with 24 sheets, making it perfect for my on-the-go sketching sessions.

One of the standout features of this paper pad is its compatibility with various drawing tools. Whether I’m working with graphite pencils, markers, or charcoal, the 80 lb basis weight paper has a smooth yet sturdy surface that readily accepts all these mediums. The cream color is also a delightful bonus, as it provides a soft tone for my artwork.

However, one element that could be improved is the perforation of the sheets. While it’s helpful for easy sheet removal, it tends to tear the edges of the paper, which can be a bit frustrating.

Overall, the Strathmore Medium Drawing Spiral Paper Pad is a reliable and convenient choice for artists looking for a quality drawing paper. Its compatibility with a wide range of drawing tools, paired with the smooth surface, makes it a solid contender in the market. Despite the minor issue with sheet perforation, this product generally lives up to its promise and has become a staple in my artist’s kit.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to choosing the right Strathmore paper for your needs, there are several important features, considerations, and general advice to keep in mind. Strathmore Paper is a high-quality product known for its premium quality and versatility. With various types and sizes available, it caters to different creative and professional endeavors. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential factors that will help you make an informed decision when purchasing Strathmore Paper.

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Types of Strathmore Paper

Strathmore Paper offers a range of types suitable for various tasks. Some of the most popular include: 500 Series (heavyweight acid-free), 300 Series (smooth, versatile), and 100 Series (perfect for letter writing). Consider the type of paper you’ll need for your specific project and choose accordingly.

Size and Format Options

Strathmore Paper is available in various sizes and formats to cater to a wide range of applications. Some common choices include A1, A2, A4, Letter, and Legal. Think about the size your paperwork requires, and make sure the product you choose meets those requirements. It’s also essential to consider whether you need a pad or individual sheets.

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Acid-Free and Archival Qualities

If you plan on storing your paperwork for an extended period or creating pieces that will be displayed, consider purchasing acid-free and archival quality Strathmore Paper. This ensures your work remains in great condition without yellowing or tearing. Check the packaging or product description for information on the paper’s archival properties.

Budget and Value

Strathmore Paper is known for its premium quality, but it may come at a higher price point than some other paper brands. Evaluate your budget and the importance of the paper’s features to your project. While you may pay a little more for Strathmore Paper, the investment often outweighs the benefits you will receive in terms of quality and durability.

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FAQ

What is Strathmore Paper?

Strathmore Paper is a premium quality paper brand that has been a staple in the arts and crafts industry for over a century. Known for its durability and versatility, Strathmore Paper is popular among artists, designers, and professionals for various applications, including drawing, painting, and mixed media projects.

The brand offers a wide range of products, including sketch pads, drawing paper, watercolor paper, colored pencil paper, and many more, catering to diverse needs and preferences. With its commitment to quality and innovation, Strathmore Paper continues to set standards in the paper industry and remains a trusted choice among enthusiasts and professionals.

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What makes Strathmore Paper stand out from other paper brands?

Strathmore Paper stands out from other paper brands for several reasons. Firstly, it provides an impressive range of product options that cater to different needs and artistic styles. Whether you prefer sketching, watercolor painting, or mixed media, Strathmore Paper has the perfect solution for you.

Secondly, Strathmore Paper is dedicated to maintaining high-quality standards across all its products. The brand uses materials sourced from sustainable resources, ensuring both durability and environmental responsibility. Additionally, its products are known for their smooth finished surfaces and consistent acid-free formulas, providing consistent results regardless of the project.

What types of paper does Strathmore Paper offer?

Strathmore Paper offers a diverse range of paper types, catering to various applications and artistic styles. Here’s a brief overview of some of their popular paper types: 140 Series Sketch Pads, Bristol board, Watercolor paper, Colored pencil paper, and Pastel paper. Each type of paper is designed with a specific purpose, offering distinct properties such as brightness, opacity, weight, and texture.

For instance, their 140 Series Sketch pads are perfect for drawing and drafting as they provide a smooth, heavyweight paper that accepts ink, pencil, charcoal, and other drawing mediums. On the other hand, their watercolor paper is ideal for traditional watercolor painting, offering a higher absorbency rate, which prevents color bleeding and allows for vibrant pigments to soak in evenly.

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Can I use mixed media techniques on Strathmore Paper?

Yes, Strathmore Paper is highly suitable for mixed media techniques due to its versatile nature and durability. Whether you are using watercolor, acrylics, colored pencils, inks, or a combination of these, Strathmore Paper will hold up well under the stress of layering and blending mediums without buckling or warping. Additionally, the paper’ s consistency and finish promote a professional-looking finish, making it an excellent choice for mixed media projects.

Some of the most popular mixed media type of Strathmore paper are the 140 series Sketch Pad and Watercolor Paper. The 140 series Sketch Pad is perfect for mixed media artists who like to explore different mediums. It has 80 pounds of heavyweight, which means it will not buckle or wrinkle under heavy layering.

What is the environmental impact of Strathmore Paper?

Strathmore Paper is committed to reducing its environmental footprint while maintaining its high-quality standards. The company uses sustainable materials, such as 100% recycled paper and pulp from post-industrial waste to create its products. This initiative not only reduces waste but also conserves natural resources and supports a circular economy.

Additionally, all Strathmore Paper products are acid-free, ensuring that artwork created on them will remain archival-quality without fading, yellowing, or losing structural integrity over time. Their long-term dedication to environmental stewardship and product sustainability sets Strathmore apart from competitors in the paper industry.

Are there any promotions or discounts available for Strathmore Paper products?

It is always recommended to check Strathmore’s official website and authorized online retail stores for any ongoing deals and promotions. These platforms often feature exclusive discounts, sale events, and bundle offers that you may not find elsewhere. Make sure to sign up for newsletters or follow Strathmore Paper on social media to stay informed about their special offers.

Additionally, some art supply stores and retailers may offer periodic discounts on Strathmore Paper products. Keep an eye out for sales events during holidays or specific events celebrating art and artists. Remember to always look for reliable sources to ensure authentic products at discounted rates.

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