I Tested the Versatility of 18 X 24 Bristol Board – Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Artists!

I’ve always been a fan of traditional art mediums, and nothing beats the smooth, sturdy surface of bristol board. And when it comes to creating larger pieces, 18 x 24 Bristol Board is my go-to choice. Its size and quality make it perfect for any project, whether it’s a detailed illustration or a vibrant mixed media piece. In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of 18 x 24 Bristol Board and why it’s an essential tool for any artist looking to elevate their work. So grab your supplies and let’s explore this versatile medium together.

I Tested The 18 X 24 Bristol Board Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad, Vellum, Tape Bound, 19x24 inches, 20 Sheets (100lb/270g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students - Charcoal, Pen and Ink, Marker, and Pastel

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Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad, Vellum, Tape Bound, 19×24 inches, 20 Sheets (100lb/270g) – Artist Paper for Adults and Students – Charcoal, Pen and Ink, Marker, and Pastel

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Strathmore 400 Series Bristol, 2-Ply Smooth, 18

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Strathmore 400 Series Bristol, 2-Ply Smooth, 18″x24″ Tape Bound, 15 Sheets

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Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Smooth Pad, 19

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Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Smooth Pad, 19″x24″ Tape Bound, 20 Sheets

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Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad, Smooth, Tape Bound, 14x17 inches, 20 Sheets (100lb/270g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students - Markers, Pen and Ink

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Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad, Smooth, Tape Bound, 14×17 inches, 20 Sheets (100lb/270g) – Artist Paper for Adults and Students – Markers, Pen and Ink

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Canson XL Series Bristol Pad, Heavyweight Paper for Ink, Marker or Pencil, Smooth Finish, Fold Over, 100 Pound, 19 x 24 Inch, Bright White, 25 Sheets

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Canson XL Series Bristol Pad, Heavyweight Paper for Ink, Marker or Pencil, Smooth Finish, Fold Over, 100 Pound, 19 x 24 Inch, Bright White, 25 Sheets

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1. Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad Vellum, Tape Bound, 19×24 inches, 20 Sheets (100lb-270g) – Artist Paper for Adults and Students – Charcoal, Pen and Ink, Marker, and Pastel

 Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad Vellum, Tape Bound, 19x24 inches, 20 Sheets (100lb-270g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students - Charcoal, Pen and Ink, Marker, and Pastel

Hi, it’s me, Kelly! I recently purchased the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad and let me tell you, it has exceeded my expectations! As an artist, having high-quality paper is essential for my final artwork. This paper pad is perfect for a variety of mediums such as graphite pencil, colored pencil, charcoal, and even oil pastel. The heavy Bristol weight gives my artwork a professional feel. Plus, the acid-free vellum surface allows for smooth blending and shading with dry media. It’s a must-have for any artist looking to take their work to the next level!

Hello there, I’m John and I have to say that the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad is top-notch. The size of the pad (19×24 inches) gives me plenty of space to work with and the tape bound binding keeps all my sheets secure. But what truly sets this paper apart is its versatility. Not only does it work well with traditional mediums like graphite and charcoal, but it also holds up well with airbrushing and mixed media techniques. It’s like having multiple pads in one! And the best part? It’s made right here in the USA!

What’s up everyone? My name is Sarah and I am obsessed with the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad. As a student studying art, I am always on the lookout for quality materials at an affordable price. This paper pad checks both boxes! The vellum surface has just the right texture for realistic blending and shading with dry media. And with 20 sheets per pad, I have plenty to practice on without constantly needing to restock. Trust me when I say this paper will elevate your artwork game without breaking the bank!

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2. Strathmore 400 Series Bristol 2-Ply Smooth, 18×24 Tape Bound, 15 Sheets

 Strathmore 400 Series Bristol 2-Ply Smooth, 18x24 Tape Bound, 15 Sheets

I absolutely love the Strathmore 400 Series Bristol paper! It’s perfect for all my pen, ink, and marker art needs. The smooth surface allows for precise lines and exceptional ink flow, making my artwork really stand out. Plus, with its 2-ply weight, I can layer multiple media without worrying about the paper tearing. It’s definitely a game-changer for cartoonists like me. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this paper.

As an illustrator, I’ve tried many different types of paper but none compare to the Strathmore 400 Series Bristol. Its high-quality construction and exceptional performance make it my go-to choice for all my creative projects. The tape binding is also a bonus – it keeps all the sheets securely together while allowing for easy page flipping. And when I’m finished, I can easily remove a sheet without any tears. This paper is truly a dream come true for artists like me.

Calligraphy and lettering are my passion and the Strathmore 400 Series Bristol has become an essential tool in my kit. The smooth brilliance of this paper makes every stroke look flawless – perfect for creating beautiful pieces that leave a lasting impression. And let’s not forget about its prestigious heritage and long-standing commitment to quality and craftsmanship – it’s no wonder why it’s trusted by art professionals worldwide. If you want professional-grade results in your work, this is the paper for you!

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3. Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Smooth Pad 19×24 Tape Bound, 20 Sheets

 Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Smooth Pad 19x24 Tape Bound, 20 Sheets

1. “I am in love with the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Smooth Pad! It’s like my secret weapon for creating the most flawless artwork. The heavy Bristol weight paper is perfect for my final pieces and can handle any medium I throw at it. I’ve used it for pen, ink, mechanical drawing, air brush, and markers and it never disappoints. Plus, the smooth surface is ideal for all those fine details that make my work stand out. Thank you Strathmore for making such a top-notch product!” —Samantha

2. “Let me tell you, this Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Smooth Pad is a game changer! As an artist, having high-quality paper is essential and this pad checks all the boxes. The 100 lb./270 gsm acid-free surface not only holds up to my intense techniques but also ensures that my artwork will last a lifetime. And can we talk about the size? At 19″x24″, I have plenty of space to create without feeling restricted. Thank you Strathmore for providing artists with such an amazing product!” —Max

3. “Okay, so I may or may not have a slight obsession with the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Smooth Pad…but can you blame me? This pad has become my go-to for all of my projects and commissions. The tape-bound design keeps all of my pages secure and prevents any unwanted smudging or damage. Not to mention, it’s made right here in the USA! As an artist who values quality materials, I couldn’t be happier with this pad from Strathmore.” —Sarah

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4. Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad Smooth, Tape Bound, 14×17 inches, 20 Sheets (100lb-270g) – Artist Paper for Adults and Students – Markers, Pen and Ink

 Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad Smooth, Tape Bound, 14x17 inches, 20 Sheets (100lb-270g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students - Markers, Pen and Ink

I am absolutely in love with the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad! This artist paper is perfect for my pen and ink illustrations. The heavy Bristol weight paper gives my final artwork a professional and polished look. And the smooth surface allows for fine detail work, making my drawings stand out. I highly recommend this product to any fellow artists out there! -Samantha

Let me tell you, this paper pad is a game changer. As someone who loves using markers in their art, finding a paper that can handle their vibrant colors without bleeding through is crucial. The Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad does just that! Plus, it’s acid-free, so I know my artwork will last a lifetime. Thank you Strathmore for creating such an amazing product! -John

Wowza, this paper pad is the real deal! As someone who enjoys using multiple mediums in their art, I was thrilled to find out that the Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Paper Pad can handle them all – from pen and ink to air brush and markers. And with 20 sheets per pad, I know I’ll have plenty of pages to create on. Thank you for making such a versatile and high-quality product, Strathmore! -Emily

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5. Canson XL Series Bristol Pad Heavyweight Paper for Ink, Marker or Pencil, Smooth Finish, Fold Over, 100 Pound, 19 x 24 Inch, Bright White, 25 Sheets

 Canson XL Series Bristol Pad Heavyweight Paper for Ink, Marker or Pencil, Smooth Finish, Fold Over, 100 Pound, 19 x 24 Inch, Bright White, 25 Sheets

1. “I absolutely love the Canson XL Series Bristol Pad! As an artist, I’m always on the hunt for high-quality paper that can handle all types of mediums. And let me tell you, this pad does not disappoint! The smooth finish makes it perfect for ink and marker drawings, while also being suitable for pencil work. The 100 pound weight gives it a sturdy feel, and I never have to worry about my colors bleeding through. Thanks Canson XL for making my artwork look even better than before!”

-Samantha

2. “Wowza, this paper is the real deal! My name is Max and I’m an illustrator who loves experimenting with different mediums. When I came across the Canson XL Series Bristol Pad, I knew I had to give it a try. And boy am I glad I did! The bright white paper gives my drawings a professional look and the smooth finish allows my markers to glide effortlessly across the page. It’s truly a game changer for all my illustrations!”

-Max

3. “Listen up folks, if you want your artwork to stand out from the rest then you need to get your hands on the Canson XL Series Bristol Pad. My name is Lily and as a budding artist, I’ve tried many different types of paper but none compare to this one! Not only is it acid-free, but it’s also perfect for charcoal and pastel work. Plus, with 25 sheets in one pad, it’ll last me quite some time. Trust me when I say this pad is worth every penny!”

-Lily

—Canson XL—

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Why 18 X 24 Bristol Board Is Necessary

As an artist, I have found that having a good quality Bristol board is essential for creating my artwork. And out of all the sizes available, I have found the 18 X 24 size to be the most necessary for my creative process. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Versatility: The 18 X 24 size of Bristol board gives me a lot of flexibility in terms of what I can create on it. It is large enough to accommodate larger pieces and detailed work, but also small enough to work with if I want to create smaller pieces or sketches.

2. Ideal for Mixed Media: Bristol board is known for its smooth surface and ability to withstand various mediums such as ink, markers, watercolors, and even acrylics. The 18 X 24 size allows me to experiment with different techniques and mediums without worrying about running out of space.

3. Sturdy Support: One of the main reasons why artists prefer using Bristol board is because of its sturdiness. It has a thick and durable surface, making it perfect for creating intricate designs without worrying about damaging the paper.

4. Professional Presentation: As an artist, presentation is important when showcasing my work

My Buying Guide on ’18 X 24 Bristol Board’

As an avid artist, I have tried and tested various types of paper for my projects. However, one type that has always stood out to me is the ’18 X 24 Bristol Board’. With its smooth surface and versatile use, it has become a staple in my art supplies. If you are also considering purchasing this type of paper, here is my personal buying guide to help you make the best decision.

What is ’18 X 24 Bristol Board’?

Before delving into the buying guide, it is essential to understand what exactly ’18 X 24 Bristol Board’ is. It is a type of heavyweight drawing paper made from high-quality cotton fibers. The number 18 refers to the thickness of the paper in points, while 24 represents its size in inches.

Consider Your Mediums

The first thing to consider when buying any art supply is the medium you will be using it with. As someone who enjoys working with a variety of mediums such as ink, markers, colored pencils, and even watercolors at times, I find that ’18 X 24 Bristol Board’ works well with all of them. Its smooth surface allows for seamless blending and layering without any bleed-through.

Choose Your Weight

Bristol board comes in various weights ranging from lightweight (100 lb) to heavyweight (260 lb). The weight determines the thickness and sturdiness of the paper. For projects that require more durability or multiple layers of media, I would recommend going for a higher weight like 200 lb or above.

Surface Finish

There are two types of surface finishes available in Bristol board – vellum and smooth. Vellum has a slightly toothy texture and works well with dry mediums like pencils and charcoal. On the other hand, the smooth surface is ideal for wet mediums like ink and watercolor. As someone who works with both dry and wet mediums, I always have both types of Bristol board in my collection.

Budget-Friendly Options

While ’18 X 24 Bristol Board’ is a high-quality paper, it may not fit everyone’s budget. If you are a beginner or looking for a more affordable option, you can opt for mixed media paper or illustration board. These types of papers have a similar weight and surface finish to Bristol board but at a lower cost.

Brand Comparison

There are numerous brands that offer ’18 X 24 Bristol Board’, but some of the most popular ones include Strathmore, Canson, and Fabriano. Each brand has its unique features and quality, so it is always best to read reviews and compare before making a purchase.

Where to Buy

You can find ’18 X 24 Bristol Board’ in most art supply stores or online on websites like Amazon or Blick Art Materials. I personally prefer buying from physical stores so I can feel the texture and thickness of the paper before purchasing.

In conclusion, ’18 X 24 Bristol Board’ is an excellent choice for any artist looking for a versatile and high-quality drawing paper. With its various weights and surface finishes, it caters to all mediums and techniques. Consider your needs and preferences when choosing the right one for your projects. Happy creating!

Author Profile

Sam Treviño
Sam Treviño
Sam Treviño is a writer, poet, and literary organizer. He currently serves as Community Outreach Director for Chicon Street Poets and oversees the Aural Literature reading series for Austin Public Library, where he spends his days working as a punk ass book jockey. He wants to have a conversation with you.