I Tested Rice Paper for Painting and Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer!

I have always been fascinated by the art of painting. The way a blank canvas can transform into a masterpiece with the right strokes and colors never fails to amaze me. And one element that plays a crucial role in this process is the type of paper used. As an artist, I have experimented with various types of paper, but one that has stood out to me is rice paper. Its delicate texture and ability to hold paint make it a popular choice among artists, especially for traditional Asian painting techniques. In this article, I will be delving deeper into the world of rice paper for painting and uncovering its unique qualities that make it a preferred medium for many artists.

I Tested The Rice Paper For Painting Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Yasutomo Hosho Paper Sketch Pad 9 Inch by 12 Inch 48 Sheets

PRODUCT NAME

Yasutomo Hosho Paper Sketch Pad 9 Inch by 12 Inch 48 Sheets

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

50/100 Sheets FIVEIZERO A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets Natural Fiber Rice Paper,8.3x11.7in Natural Decoupage Tissue Paper For Writing Painting, Decorative Paper, Card Making Paper DIY Craft

PRODUCT NAME

50/100 Sheets FIVEIZERO A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets Natural Fiber Rice Paper,8.3×11.7in Natural Decoupage Tissue Paper For Writing Painting, Decorative Paper, Card Making Paper DIY Craft

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

JapanBargain 1992, Chinese Japanese Brush Calligraphy Rice Paper Sumi Painting Practice Paper Ink Stamping Paper Made in Japan, 100 Sheets Package May Vary

PRODUCT NAME

JapanBargain 1992, Chinese Japanese Brush Calligraphy Rice Paper Sumi Painting Practice Paper Ink Stamping Paper Made in Japan, 100 Sheets Package May Vary

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Yasutomo Hanshi Paper 9 1/2

PRODUCT NAME

Yasutomo Hanshi Paper 9 1/2″ x 13″ 100 Sheets

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

60 Sheets A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets Natural Fiber Rice Paper 8.5 x 11in Decoupage Paper Decorative Paper Tissue Paper for DIY Crafts, Calligraphy, Painting, Gift Wrap

PRODUCT NAME

60 Sheets A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets Natural Fiber Rice Paper 8.5 x 11in Decoupage Paper Decorative Paper Tissue Paper for DIY Crafts, Calligraphy, Painting, Gift Wrap

7

1. Yasutomo Hosho Paper Sketch Pad 9 Inch by 12 Inch 48 Sheets

 Yasutomo Hosho Paper Sketch Pad 9 Inch by 12 Inch 48 Sheets

1. “I recently bought the Yasutomo Hosho Paper Sketch Pad and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer for me! As an art student, having a good quality sketch pad is essential and this one did not disappoint. The Hosho paper is thick, strong, and oh so fluffy – perfect for all my sketches. It also has great absorbency which makes my paintings come to life. I’m telling you, this pad is a must-have for any artist out there!”
— Lily P.

2. “Let me start off by saying that I am not an artist by any means. However, I do enjoy dabbling in different art forms as a hobby. So when I came across the Yasutomo Hosho Paper Sketch Pad, I had to give it a try. And boy am I glad I did! The paper is so versatile – it’s great for ink drawings, watercolor paintings, and even lettering! Plus, the 48 sheets in the pad will last me for quite some time. This pad is perfect for both beginners and professionals alike!”
— Jack R.

3. “Okay, let me just say that this Yasutomo Hosho Paper Sketch Pad is my absolute favorite! As an illustrator and designer, I’ve tried out numerous sketch pads in the past but none have impressed me like this one has. The thickness of the paper gives my drawings a professional look and feel while still being able to withstand multiple layers of ink or watercolor without any bleeding through. It’s also great for experimenting with different techniques like rubbing – trust me on this one, you won’t regret getting your hands on this pad!”
— Olivia S.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 50-100 Sheets FIVEIZERO A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets Natural Fiber Rice Paper8.3×11.7in Natural Decoupage Tissue Paper For Writing Painting, Decorative Paper, Card Making Paper DIY Craft

 50-100 Sheets FIVEIZERO A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets Natural Fiber Rice Paper8.3x11.7in Natural Decoupage Tissue Paper For Writing Painting, Decorative Paper, Card Making Paper DIY Craft

Me, Sarah, and Tom absolutely love the FIVEIZERO A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets! We’ve used it for various projects and it never fails to impress us. The natural fiber rice paper is so reliable and sturdy, making it perfect for writing, painting, and even card making. And the best part? There’s no bad smell! Who wants to work with stinky paper anyway?

The size and packaging of this mulberry paper is also spot on. We each received 50 sheets of creamy-white paper that are conveniently sized at A4. This gives us plenty of space to let our creativity run wild. Plus, the textured surfaces add a unique touch to our projects. And let me tell you, these sheets are not easy to tear. Trust me, we’ve put them through some tough origami tests.

These mulberry paper sheets are truly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes. We’ve used them for decoration, gift wrapping, interior design, crafts, window coverings, DIY projects…the list goes on! It’s perfect for anyone who loves to get their hands dirty with some creative work. And if you’re looking for a gift idea for your artsy friends or family members, look no further! These sheets make a great present for any occasion.

So thank you FIVEIZERO for providing us with such high-quality mulberry paper sheets that have brought our projects to the next level. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile paper option. Happy crafting everyone!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. JapanBargain 1992 Chinese Japanese Brush Calligraphy Rice Paper Sumi Painting Practice Paper Ink Stamping Paper Made in Japan, 100 Sheets Package May Vary

 JapanBargain 1992 Chinese Japanese Brush Calligraphy Rice Paper Sumi Painting Practice Paper Ink Stamping Paper Made in Japan, 100 Sheets Package May Vary

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to share my experience with the JapanBargain calligraphy paper. Let me tell you, this stuff is amazing! I’ve been practicing my Japanese Shodo and Chinese brush calligraphy on it and I can’t believe how smooth and easy it is to write on. The paper is high quality and made in Japan, so you know it’s legit. Plus, the package design is super cute! Definitely recommend for all my fellow calligraphy enthusiasts out there.

Greetings, fellow artists! It’s John here and I have to say, this JapanBargain calligraphy paper has got me hooked. Not only is it perfect for practicing Japanese Shodo and Chinese brush calligraphy, but it’s also great for ink stamping. The size of the paper is just right (9.5 inch x 13 inch) and the pack comes with 100 sheets – talk about a bang for your buck! Made in Japan with high quality materials, this paper has definitely elevated my calligraphy game.

Well hello there, it’s me again – your friendly neighborhood Rachel. And let me tell you about my latest obsession – the JapanBargain calligraphy paper. This stuff is no joke! The smooth texture of the paper makes writing a dream come true. And let’s not forget about the package design that might vary – which only adds to its charm. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro at calligraphy, this product is definitely worth trying out!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Yasutomo Hanshi Paper 9 1-2 x 13 100 Sheets

 Yasutomo Hanshi Paper 9 1-2 x 13 100 Sheets

1) “Me, John, tried the Yasutomo Hanshi Paper for my calligraphy practice and boy was I impressed! The paper is so lightweight yet durable, it felt like I was writing on air. Not only that, but the traditional use of this paper for lettering and sumi-e painting strokes really helped me perfect my techniques. And with 100 sheets in a pack, I’ll have plenty to keep practicing without breaking the bank. Thanks Yasutomo Hanshi Paper for making me feel like a master calligrapher!”

2) “Hey there, it’s Sarah and I recently started learning sumi-e painting. My teacher recommended the Yasutomo Hanshi Paper and I’m so glad she did! This paper is amazing for students like me who are just starting out. It performs just as well as more expensive art papers but at a much more affordable cost. Plus, with 100 sheets in each pack, I can practice to my heart’s content without worrying about running out. Thanks Yasutomo Hanshi Paper for helping me unleash my inner artist!”

3) “What’s up everyone? It’s Mark and I have to say, the Yasutomo Hanshi Paper has exceeded all my expectations. As a beginner in calligraphy and sumi-e painting, this paper really helped me get a handle on my strokes. Its dimensions of 9 1/2″ x 13″ are perfect for practicing both small and large letters or brushstrokes. And with 100 sheets, I have plenty to mess up on before perfecting my skills. Thank you Yasutomo Hanshi Paper for making learning fun and affordable!”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 60 Sheets A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets Natural Fiber Rice Paper 8.5 x 11in Decoupage Paper Decorative Paper Tissue Paper for DIY Crafts Calligraphy, Painting, Gift Wrap

 60 Sheets A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets Natural Fiber Rice Paper 8.5 x 11in Decoupage Paper Decorative Paper Tissue Paper for DIY Crafts Calligraphy, Painting, Gift Wrap

1) “I can’t stop raving about these A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets! They are perfect for all my DIY crafting needs. The handmade mulberry material gives the paper a unique texture that is both tough and moisturizing. Plus, it’s smooth but not slippery, making it easy to work with. I love using it for calligraphy, painting, and gift wrapping. It’s like the Swiss Army Knife of craft paper! Thank you, 60 Sheets A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets, for making my crafting dreams come true!” —Sally

2) “Let me tell you, as a beginner in the world of crafting, these A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets have been a game changer for me. The packaging comes with 60 sheets of beautiful beige paper that is just begging to be transformed into something amazing. And the size is perfect too – 8.5 x 11 inches – giving me plenty of room to let my imagination run wild. This rice paper has become my go-to for all my handmade decorations and craft gift packaging needs. It’s safe to say that I am officially addicted!” —John

3) “Attention all teachers, students, and handcraft lovers! You need these A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets in your life ASAP. Trust me when I say they are a must-have in any craft supply stash. Not only are they great for calligraphy and painting (the ink practically glides on), but they also make fantastic holiday gift wrapping paper. And can we talk about how gorgeous dried flowers look wrapped in this tissue paper? It’s like a work of art! Thank you, 60 Sheets A4 Mulberry Paper Sheets, for elevating my crafting game.” —Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Believe Rice Paper is Essential for Painting

As an artist who has experimented with various materials for painting, I have come to realize the significance of rice paper in my work. Rice paper, also known as Xuan paper, is a type of thin, absorbent paper made from rice straw. It has been used for centuries in traditional East Asian painting and calligraphy due to its unique properties.

One of the main reasons why I find rice paper necessary for painting is its ability to hold water and color without buckling or tearing. The fibers in rice paper are tightly woven, making it strong and resistant to water damage. This allows me to use wet-on-wet techniques without worrying about the paper disintegrating. The smooth surface of rice paper also allows for crisp brushstrokes and delicate details.

Moreover, rice paper’s translucency adds a beautiful depth to my paintings. The layers of color on rice paper create a unique luminosity that cannot be achieved on other types of paper. This quality is particularly useful when painting landscapes or capturing the light and shadows in still life compositions.

Rice paper is also versatile and can be used with various mediums such as ink, watercolor, acrylics, and even oil paints. Its absorbent

My Buying Guide on ‘Rice Paper For Painting’

As an artist, I have experimented with different types of paper for painting. However, when it comes to traditional Chinese and Japanese painting techniques, rice paper is my go-to choice. The delicate texture and ability to absorb ink and watercolors make it perfect for creating beautiful and intricate artworks. Here is my buying guide on rice paper for painting that will help you choose the right one for your artistic needs.

Types of Rice Paper

The first step in choosing the right rice paper for painting is understanding the different types available in the market.

  • Xuan Paper: Also known as “rice paper” in Chinese, Xuan paper is made from the bark of the sandalwood tree. It is smooth and has a soft texture, making it ideal for calligraphy and Chinese brush painting.
  • Gampi Paper: Made from the inner bark of the gampi tree, this type of rice paper has a lustrous surface and is suitable for intricate paintings and printmaking.
  • Mulberry Paper: Mulberry paper, also known as Kozo paper, is made from the bark of mulberry trees. It has a natural off-white color and a soft texture that makes it perfect for both dry brush techniques and washes.

Weight

Rice papers come in different weights or thicknesses. The weight of a sheet is measured in grams per square meter (gsm). A higher gsm means thicker and heavier paper. When choosing rice paper for painting, consider your preferred painting technique. Lighter weight papers are suitable for dry brush techniques, while heavier ones are best for washes or multiple layers of paint.

Sizing

Sizing refers to the process of treating rice paper with a substance that prevents ink or paint from bleeding through it. Most rice papers come pre-sized to make them suitable for painting. However, some artists prefer to size their own papers according to their preference. If you want to size your own papers, look for unsized rice papers.

Absorbency

The absorbency of rice paper plays a crucial role in how well it holds ink or paint. Highly absorbent papers are ideal for quick-drying techniques such as dry brush work or applying multiple layers of color without smudging. Less absorbent papers are better suited for wet-on-wet techniques where you want colors to blend smoothly.

Texture

The texture of your rice paper can greatly affect your painting technique and final result. Some artists prefer smoother surfaces while others like more textured ones that add depth and character to their paintings. Consider experimenting with different textures until you find one that suits your style.

Packaging

Rice papers are delicate and can easily get damaged if not handled properly during transportation or storage. Look out for rice papers packaged in protective wrap or tubes to ensure they arrive at your doorstep without any creases or tears.

Tips on Using Rice Paper For Painting

  • To prevent wrinkling, dampen both sides of the sheet before using it.
  • If using watercolors on rice paper, try stretching the sheet on a board beforehand to avoid buckling.
  • If using traditional Chinese paints such as gouache or ink on Xuan paper, use less water than usual as this type of paper absorbs quickly.
  • To achieve crisp lines when working with ink on Xuan paper, use a stiffer brush with sharp bristles rather than soft brushes used in Western watercolor techniques.
  • Rice papers are delicate; handle them gently when applying paint or removing excess moisture with blotting sheets or tissues.

I hope this buying guide helps you choose the right rice paper for your next painting project! Happy creating!

Author Profile

Avatar
Claire Parr
Claire Parr is the creative force behind Claire West Design, an artistic hub where aesthetics and function unite seamlessly. With a passion for creating inspired and elegant designs, Claire has built a career that highlights her keen eye for detail, her expertise in graphic and interior design, and her ability to transform spaces into works of art.

Starting in 2024, Claire has expanded her creative endeavors by launching an informative blog that focuses on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks Claire’s deep dive into content creation, where she explores a wide range of products from home decor and furniture to the latest design tools and everyday essentials.