I’ve had a sample pack of Baohong Masters paper on my to-review shelf for awhile, and of course, by the time I get around to it, they’ve jacked up their prices (at least in the U.S., likely due to tarriffs) and are no longer the great deal they used to be. Still, it’s worth checking out what I’ve already got!
The sample pack allowed me to try the hot press, cold press, and rough press. I do not have standard tests that I do with paper, I just paint on it and get a general impression.
Paintings
Hot Press
Cold Press
Rough Press
Conclusion
I found all three papers pleasant. The rough press was my least favorite – it’s a sharp rough press, pebbly-feeling – but I rarely like rough press all that much. Cold press was good – perhaps slightly on the rough side. I liked hot press more than I thought I would. It is noticeably smoother than CP, but it still has enough tooth that you’re not blooming all over the place; you can get nice smooth washes and gradients from it. I guess I would say all three finishes are a bit on the rough side of their category.
This paper is not as hard-sized as Arches, but it’s also not as soft as Saunders. It’s a nice middle ground. I had no issues with the sizing, I liked the way the paint absorbed. It has no odor.
I would get Baohong Masters again if the price is right. I am not sure I would prefer it to Saunders if price is equal. I prefer it to Arches, but I’m not a big Arches fan.
Note I have not tested Baohong Academy (student grade paper), which is said to the be the same as Meeden paper. Obviously, the quality of this one is not going to be as good, since it’s student grade, but I can’t say firsthand what it’s like.
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