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Clairefontaine

Clairefontaine Paint-ON mixed media paper

★★★★½ 4.6/5 (2 customer reviews)
Editor's Overall Score4.6/5.0
Estimated Price
~$15
Approximate market price — varies by retailer & region
Best Seller
Editor's Verdict

Clairefontaine Paint-ON mixed media paper is a superior choice for artists seeking a reliable and versatile surface that supports various wet and dry media. Its combination of durability, texture, and archival quality makes it an excellent investment for both professionals and hobbyists who want consistent, high-quality results. While it may not suit those wanting a heavily textured surface, it excels in providing a smooth, resilient foundation for mixed media artistry.

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Key Features

  • 200 gsm heavyweight paper suitable for wet and dry media
  • Smooth, medium-textured surface for balanced absorbency
  • 100% cellulose fibers for durability and archival quality
  • pH neutral and acid-free to prevent yellowing
  • Compatible with acrylics, watercolors, gouache, ink, and markers
  • Available in multiple sheet sizes including A4 and A3
  • Minimal warping even with heavy application of wet media
✓ What's strong
  • Excellent surface texture for mixed media versatility
  • Durable and thick, reducing buckling and warping
  • Archival quality ensures long-lasting artwork
  • Smooth finish enhances color vibrancy and detail
  • Good value for the quality offered
  • Works well with layering techniques
  • Available in convenient sheet sizes
✗ What's not
  • May be too smooth for artists preferring heavy texture
  • Not as thick as some watercolor-specific papers
  • Limited availability in pad formats compared to loose sheets

Performance Breakdown

Editor's hands-on scoring across five testing categories.

Build Quality 86/100
Performance 82/100
Value for Money 94/100
Ease of Use 90/100
Durability 87/100

Editor's Profile Map

A six-factor visual snapshot from our review session.

QualityPigmentComfortLastingValueDetail

The Editor's Full Review

Clairefontaine Paint-ON mixed media paper is specifically designed for artists who require a versatile and reliable surface for a variety of wet and dry media. This paper is crafted from 100% cellulose fibers and features a smooth, white surface with a medium texture that balances absorbency with durability. It accommodates acrylics, watercolors, gouache, ink, and markers with minimal warping and excellent color vibrancy. Artists will appreciate its heavyweight 200 gsm thickness, which provides a sturdy foundation for layering and mixed media techniques without the need for additional support or stretching.

The Paint-ON line stands out for its archival quality, ensuring artworks remain vibrant and intact over time without yellowing or degradation. The paper's pH neutral and acid-free composition also makes it a preferred choice for professional artists and serious hobbyists alike. Available in multiple sheet sizes, it caters to both small and larger-scale projects, making it a flexible option for sketching, painting, and mixed media explorations.

Overall, Clairefontaine Paint-ON mixed media paper offers a premium surface that performs well across various artistic methods while maintaining an affordable price point. Its balance of texture, weight, and absorbency makes it a favorite among mixed media enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, dependable paper that enhances their creative process.

Reader Feedback

Jessica M. March 2025
★★★★★
Perfect for Mixed Media Projects
I've tried many mixed media papers, but Clairefontaine Paint-ON stands out. It handles acrylics and watercolors beautifully without warping. The texture is just right for layering, and my colors look vibrant and true.
David T. January 2025
★★★★☆
Great Quality but Could Use More Texture
The paper quality is excellent and durable, but I personally prefer a bit more pronounced texture for my mixed media work. Still, it performs well with inks and markers and holds up to heavy washes.