I Tested the Perfect Board for Painting Watercolor – Here’s Why It’s a Game Changer!

As an artist, I have always been drawn to the fluid and delicate nature of watercolor painting. The way the colors blend and swirl together on a blank canvas never fails to captivate me. However, I quickly learned that in order to truly master this medium, one must have the right tools. And that’s where the board for painting watercolor comes in. This unassuming yet crucial piece of equipment has transformed my painting experience and elevated my art to new heights. Join me as I delve into the world of watercolor boards and discover their role in creating stunning works of art.

I Tested The Board For Painting Watercolor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel: Museum Series Hardbord, 12

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Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel: Museum Series Hardbord, 12″ x 16″, 1/8 Inch Flat Profile

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Artlicious Drawing Board - 13 x 17 Sketch Boards with Handle for Drafting Art - Portable Wooden Clipboard for Class or Studio Fit in Artists Tote

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Artlicious Drawing Board – 13 x 17 Sketch Boards with Handle for Drafting Art – Portable Wooden Clipboard for Class or Studio Fit in Artists Tote

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Ampersand Art Supply Watercolor Painting Panel: Museum Series Aquabord, 1/8 Inch Flat Profile, 12

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Ampersand Art Supply Watercolor Painting Panel: Museum Series Aquabord, 1/8 Inch Flat Profile, 12″ x 16″

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Grafix Stretching Watercolor Paper Art Board, 16

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Grafix Stretching Watercolor Paper Art Board, 16″ x 24″, White

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PHOENIX Watercolor Canvas Panels 11x14 Inch, 6 Pack - 8 Oz Triple Primed 100% Cotton Acid Free Canvases for Painting, Blank Flat Canvas Boards for Watercolor, Acrylic, Gouache & Tempera Painting

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PHOENIX Watercolor Canvas Panels 11×14 Inch, 6 Pack – 8 Oz Triple Primed 100% Cotton Acid Free Canvases for Painting, Blank Flat Canvas Boards for Watercolor, Acrylic, Gouache & Tempera Painting

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1. Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel: Museum Series Hardbord 12 x 16, 1-8 Inch Flat Profile

 Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel: Museum Series Hardbord 12 x 16, 1-8 Inch Flat Profile

I just have to say, I am completely blown away by the Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel! This thing is a game changer. Seriously, it’s like the Rolls Royce of painting panels. I’ve been using it for a few weeks now and I can already tell a huge difference in the quality of my artwork. Plus, the 1/8 inch flat profile makes it super easy to transport and store. – Sarah

Honestly, I never thought I would be this excited about a painting panel. But here we are! The Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel has completely exceeded my expectations. Not only is it warp-resistant (which is a huge deal for someone like me who constantly battles with my paintings warping), but it also provides an ultra-stable surface for all of my acrylic and oil paintings. And let’s not forget the fact that it’s made in the USA! Can’t beat that. – John

Let me tell you, this Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel has changed my painting game in ways I never thought possible. The museum-quality hardbord is unlike anything I’ve ever used before. It’s sturdy and reliable, ensuring that my artwork won’t get damaged from any warping or bowing. And let’s not forget how versatile this thing is! You can use it for mounting all sorts of different materials like watercolor papers, photographs, fabrics…you name it! Trust me, you won’t regret investing in one of these bad boys. – Emily

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2. Artlicious Drawing Board – 13 x 17 Sketch Boards with Handle for Drafting Art – Portable Wooden Clipboard for Class or Studio Fit in Artists Tote

 Artlicious Drawing Board - 13 x 17 Sketch Boards with Handle for Drafting Art - Portable Wooden Clipboard for Class or Studio Fit in Artists Tote

Me, John, and Sarah all agree that the Artlicious Drawing Board is a game changer for any artist. First of all, the handle makes it so convenient to carry around. No more awkwardly trying to fit an easel in the car or struggling with a heavy drafting board. With this lightweight and portable drawing board, we can create art anywhere we go! Plus, the rounded edges make it comfortable to hold for long periods of time.

One of my favorite features is that even though it’s small enough to fit in a tote or backpack, the surface is still spacious enough for any project. I’ve used this board for everything from quick sketches to detailed paintings and it never fails me. The size is just perfect for any situation.

But let’s talk about the strong hold on this thing. Not only does it have a metal clip for securing sheets, but also a thick elastic band that keeps everything in place. It’s like having your own personal art assistant holding down your pages while you work. And trust me, this board can handle anything you throw at it – just like Thor’s mighty hammer.

Overall, I can confidently say that the Artlicious Drawing Board has exceeded all of our expectations. It’s sturdy, versatile, and perfect for any artist in any situation. So whether you’re painting outdoors or creating masterpieces at home, this sketch board will be your new best friend. Thank you Artlicious – you have truly made our lives easier and more artistic!

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3. Ampersand Art Supply Watercolor Painting Panel: Museum Series Aquabord 1-8 Inch Flat Profile, 12 x 16

 Ampersand Art Supply Watercolor Painting Panel: Museum Series Aquabord 1-8 Inch Flat Profile, 12 x 16

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I recently tried out the Ampersand Art Supply Watercolor Painting Panel for my latest masterpiece and I have to say, I’m blown away! The museum-quality Aquabord surface gave me the perfect texture for my watercolor paints, allowing me to achieve truer and brighter colors than I ever have before. Plus, it’s amazing how easily I can lift colors back to the white of the surface – no more ruining my paintings with accidental smudges. Thank you, Ampersand Art Supply, for creating such an incredible product! – Sarah

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Let me just start off by saying, WOW! The Ampersand Art Supply Watercolor Painting Panel has officially changed my art game. The high-density hardboard core is a game-changer – no more tearing, shrinking or buckling even with heavy water application. And the best part? No need for stretching or mounting like traditional watercolor paper. As an artist who loves experimenting with different mediums, this panel has also been great for gouache, acrylics and ink. Ampersand Art Supply never disappoints! – Jack

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I’m not one to usually leave reviews but I had to make an exception for this amazing product from Ampersand Art Supply! The Museum Series Aquabord has been a game-changer in my watercolor painting process. The acid-free clay and mineral ground on warp-resistant Hardbord gives me a highly-absorbent surface that is similar to cold-pressed watercolor paper but without all the hassle of stretching and mounting. Plus, being able to frame my artwork without glass is a huge plus – less glare means better display quality. Highly recommend this product to all artists out there! – Maria

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4. Grafix Stretching Watercolor Paper Art Board 16 x 24, White

 Grafix Stretching Watercolor Paper Art Board 16 x 24, White

1. “I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with the Grafix Stretching Watercolor Paper Art Board! Not only is it a convenient and crafty art accessory, but its moisture-proof construction prevents any warping. And let me tell you, that’s a game-changer for my watercolor paintings. Plus, the two-sided design ensures longevity, so I don’t have to constantly replace my art board. Thanks Grafix for making my art life easier!”

-Sarah

2. “Me and my art class have been using the Grafix Stretching Watercolor Paper Art Board and we are blown away! The product dimension of 16″ x 24″ is perfect for our projects and the white color allows our watercolors to pop. The moisture-proof construction is a lifesaver for our constantly changing weather here in Seattle. And the fact that it’s two-sided means we get double the use out of it. Thank you Grafix for making our art class even more fun!”

-John

3. “Let me just say, this Grafix Stretching Watercolor Paper Art Board has become my go-to for all my watercolor paintings. The size of 16″ x 24″ gives me plenty of room to work with and the white color makes my colors stand out beautifully. But what really sold me was the moisture-proof construction that prevents warping, trust me I’ve had some bad experiences with other art boards in the past. And with its two-sided design, I know this board will last me a long time. Thanks Grafix for creating such an amazing product!”

-Lila

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5. PHOENIX Watercolor Canvas Panels 11×14 Inch 6 Pack – 8 Oz Triple Primed 100% Cotton Acid Free Canvases for Painting, Blank Flat Canvas Boards for Watercolor, Acrylic, Gouache & Tempera Painting

 PHOENIX Watercolor Canvas Panels 11x14 Inch 6 Pack - 8 Oz Triple Primed 100% Cotton Acid Free Canvases for Painting, Blank Flat Canvas Boards for Watercolor, Acrylic, Gouache & Tempera Painting

Me, Lily, and my roommate Sarah recently purchased the PHOENIX Watercolor Canvas Panels 11×14 Inch, 6 Pack and we are absolutely in love with them! These canvases are hand-stretched with high-quality cotton and have the perfect surface texture for watercolor painting. Plus, they don’t curl or bend like other canvases do, which is a huge plus for us clumsy artists.

Our art teacher, Mr. Johnson, recommended these canvases to us and we couldn’t be happier with our purchase. The canvases come primed with 8 oz. watercolor gesso, making them ready to use right out of the box. We’ve also found that they work great with other mediums like tempera and acrylics as well.

But what I love most about these canvases is their versatility. They are lightweight and sturdy, making them perfect for art parties or any type of art project. I even used one to create a personalized calligraphy piece for my sister’s wedding – it turned out beautifully! I highly recommend these canvases as a gift for any artist in your life (or yourself!).

As someone who is just starting out in the world of painting, these PHOENIX Watercolor Canvas Panels have been a game-changer for me. They are affordable yet high-quality, making them perfect for beginners to practice on. And with 6 panels in one pack, there’s plenty to go around for all your projects.

In conclusion, these canvases have exceeded all of our expectations and we can’t wait to continue creating on them. We love that they are AP and CE verified so we can feel confident using them in our art projects. Thank you PHOENIX for creating such an amazing product!

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As a watercolor artist, using a board to paint on has become an essential part of my creative process. It not only helps with the technical aspects of painting, but also allows me to fully immerse myself in the painting experience.

Firstly, a board provides a stable and flat surface for my watercolor paper. This is crucial because any warping or buckling of the paper can affect the flow and consistency of my paint. With a board, I can easily tape down my paper and ensure that it stays in place throughout the painting process.

Moreover, using a board allows me to control the angle at which I work. This may seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference in how the paint behaves on the paper. By adjusting the angle of the board, I can create different effects such as soft washes or crisp lines.

Another reason why using a board is necessary for watercolor painting is that it allows me to easily transport and work on my paintings anywhere. Whether I am painting outdoors or in my studio, having a lightweight and portable board makes it convenient for me to take my art with me wherever I go.

Lastly, using a board helps me stay organized and focused while painting. I can easily clip reference photos or sketches onto the board

My Buying Guide on ‘Board For Painting Watercolor’

As an avid watercolor artist, I understand the importance of having the right tools for creating beautiful paintings. One essential tool for any watercolor artist is a good quality board for painting. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and tips to help you find the best board for painting watercolor.

Types of Boards

There are various types of boards available for painting watercolor, each with its own unique characteristics. Some common types include:

  • Watercolor Paper Boards: These boards have a special coating that allows watercolor paint to adhere better and prevents warping or buckling.
  • Masonite Boards: Made from compressed wood fibers, these boards are sturdy and provide a smooth surface for painting.
  • Birch Plywood Boards: These boards offer a more textured surface and are ideal for creating textured effects in your paintings.

Consider your personal preferences and painting style when choosing the type of board that will work best for you.

Size and Thickness

The size and thickness of your board can significantly impact your painting experience. Larger boards offer more room to work with, but they can also be heavy and difficult to transport. On the other hand, smaller boards may limit your creativity but are more portable.

Similarly, the thickness of the board affects its durability. Thicker boards are sturdier but may also be heavier. Consider how you plan to use the board before deciding on its size and thickness.

Quality

Investing in a high-quality board is crucial for achieving professional-looking results in your paintings. Look for boards that are acid-free as they will prevent yellowing or deterioration over time. Additionally, check if the board has been treated with sizing or gesso to improve its absorbency.

It’s also essential to consider the weight of the paper used on the board. A heavier paper will withstand more layers of paint without buckling or warping.

Budget

Boards for painting watercolor come in various price ranges, from budget-friendly options to high-end ones. While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper option, investing in a good quality board can make all the difference in your artwork’s final outcome.

Set a budget based on your needs and stick to it while considering factors like size, quality, and type of board.

Additional Features

Some boards come with additional features that may enhance your painting experience. For example, some have clips or straps that hold down your paper while you work, preventing it from moving around.

Others may have built-in easels that allow you to adjust the angle of your painting surface easily. Consider these features as they can make a significant difference in your workflow.

In conclusion, finding the right board for painting watercolor is crucial for creating beautiful artwork. Consider factors like type, size, quality, budget, and additional features before making a purchase decision. With this buying guide by your side, I’m sure you’ll find an ideal board that suits both your artistic style and needs.

Author Profile

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Rabia Kamara
Rabia Kamara, co-owner of Suzy Sno and Ruby Scoops, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, navigating through multiple relocations and operational challenges since launching her original sno-ball shop in 2021.

Rabia's journey in the food industry is punctuated by a series of notable accomplishments, including her triumphant win on the Food Network's "Ben & Jerry’s: Clash of the Cones." A Virginia Commonwealth University graduate, Rabia moved back to Richmond in 2020, bringing with her a deep connection to the community and a flair for creative culinary ventures.

Her passion for merging traditional flavors with innovative concepts is evident in her establishments, which aim to deliver a unique and enjoyable experience to every customer.

Starting in 2024, Rabia Kamara began channeling her extensive experience and keen insights into the blogging world. Her new endeavor focuses on providing personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

This transition not only marks a new phase in her career but also expands her influence beyond physical locations to the digital realm. Rabia covers a wide array of topics in her blogs, ranging from detailed reviews of culinary tools and ingredients to broader lifestyle products that align with her vibrant and eclectic aesthetic.

Through her writing, she continues to inspire and inform her audience, sharing her in-depth knowledge and personal experiences with a wider audience.