Arches® Aquarelle Watercolor Blocks are the gold standard for professional watercolorists around the world. Made in France on a traditional cylinder mould, this premium paper mimics the finest handcrafted processes to deliver exceptional strength, texture, and absorbency.
Crafted from 100% long cotton fibers and gelatin-sized to the core, Arches Aquarelle offers superior control, consistent washes, and luminous color performance. This sizing method, exclusive to Arches, prevents paints from soaking through, enhances transparency, and allows easy lifting and reworking—even when the paper is heavily wet.
The paper is naturally fungicide treated, acid-free, and made with an alkaline reserve to ensure optimal conservation and resistance to yellowing over time. Whether you're layering delicate glazes or working wet-on-wet, Arches Aquarelle maintains its form, brilliance, and integrity.
Features:
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Composition: 100% cotton, long fibers for strength and longevity
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Sizing: Gelatin-sized to the core for vibrant color and surface integrity
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Textures:
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Cold Press (CP): Most popular texture; light tooth for versatile application
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Hot Press (HP): Smoothest finish; ideal for detail work and ink
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Rough: Pronounced texture for expressive brushwork and granulation effects
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Weight Options: 185, 300, 356, 640, 850 gsm (300 gsm most common in blocks)
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Blocks: Glued on all 4 sides to prevent warping
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Colors: Natural White and Bright White
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Formats: Sheets, rolls, short-edge pads, and blocks
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Archival Quality: Acid-free, no optical brighteners, ISO 9706 compliant
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Ideal For: Watercolor, gouache, ink, acrylic, and all wet media techniques
Benefits:
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Retains shape even with heavy water use
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Scratch and erasure-resistant
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Paint can be lifted both wet and dry
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Superior color vibrancy and luminosity
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Perfect for plein air or studio painting
Available Sizes (Block Format):
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7" × 10"
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9" × 12"
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10" × 14"
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12" × 16"
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14" × 20"
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18" × 24"
