Base Paper
After quite a bit of research and testing I have selected a few base papers that are great quality papers and that hold up well in the marbling process. Below are more details of the papers I use. I'm happy to make some of these papers available to you for your marbling needs. Check out my Marbling Supplies to order sheets of Colorplan, Legion Bamboo & Crane Lettra.
Note: gsm refers to grams per square meter and is used as an indicator of the weight of the paper. Grain refers to the direction of the fibers in a sheet of paper and whether they are parallel to the short or long end of the paper. Grain will be listed within the product description as it depends on whether the paper is a full or half-sized sheet.
Why is grain important? For more information on why grain is important you can read this great article in Post Press Magazine about grain direction.
Full Sheets - full sheets are approximately 19x25 inches. Details on grain will be provided in listing. Combed designs will be parallel to the long end unless otherwise requested. As all sheets are made to order, the design can be turned to be parallel to the grain if needed. Please make a note of this request at checkout or email me directly.
Half Sheets - half sheets measure approximately 12.5 x 19 inches. Details on grain will be provided in listing. Half sheets are listed as they become available.
Colorplan Paper – 135gsm
Colorplan is the broadest range of premium acid-free colored papers currently on the market. Surface is a subtle vellum texture that gives this paper a certain tactile quality, which allows for great “foldability”. Paper is made in England.
I use a range of colors from Colorplan depending on the paints selected and my inspiration. I really enjoy using this paper not only for how well it holds up in the marbling process but because the paints marbled on these sheets are transformed by the color of the base paper. Each time I lift the paper from the surface it’s like making a new discovery!
Legion Bamboo Paper - 105gsm
In a world where the environmental impact of a product is at the forefront of discussion for both consumers and manufacturers alike, bamboo stands out as one of the most renewable resources available. I'm happy to include this eco-friendly paper in my collection of base papers to use for marbling. Available in 105gsm, all sheets are precut and measure 27.5x19.5" (short grain).
Specifications:
90% Bamboo / 10% Cotton, Neutral pH, Acid Free, 70lb Text, Luxurious textured surface, Bio-degradable
Cranes Lettra Letterpress Paper – 120gsm
Crane's Lettra is 100% cotton, soft and luxurious to the touch, yet strong and stable on press. The cotton fibers are relatively uncompacted, so the sheet feels extra-bulky, even fluffy. Cotton fibers are naturally long and strong, but also non-rigid. Lettra is made without surface sizing to maximize its suppleness and its receptiveness to a deep impression. This is one of my favorite white papers to marble on for its ability to render beautiful colors. It's soft but strong enough to hold up in the marbling process. Available in 120gsm, all sheets are precut and measure 25x19.5" (short grain).
Specifications:
100% Cotton, Neutral pH, Acid Free, Luxurious textured surface, Specialty Paper
Fabriano CMF Ingres Paper - 90gsm
This is a Fabriano Ingres laid paper in a special CMF (Cartiere Miliani Fabriano) edition. Laid paper is a type of paper having a ribbed texture imparted by the manufacturing process. The unique grain and the highly lightfast colors are characteristic of these papers. Acid free.
Canson Ingres Paper - 100gsm
This is a lightweight, laid paper whose beautiful texture comes through the marbled design. Laid paper is a type of paper having a ribbed texture imparted by the manufacturing process.
Talas Professional Marbling Paper - 120gsm
A nice smooth white paper that accepts the alum process and marbled patterns very well. Paper is acid-free and archival. Made from 100% Bleached Cellulose (no recycled and wood fibers) Fibers; and free of buffering agents, make it a good choice for Ebru or Suminagashi marbling.
Canson Mi-Teintes Paper - 160gsm
A great paper for giving a colorful background to marbled designs. It contains cotton which gives it a wonderful texture and feel and has a honeycombed side as well as a fine grain side. It comes in a rich range of light-resistant tones and complies with ISO 9706 standard on permanence and is acid free. I enjoy using this paper to create covers for marbled notebooks and stationery.