The use of traditional artist papers like Canson Aquarelle Watercolor Paper for digital printing projects is gaining traction among enthusiasts and professionals alike. This paper, commonly available at art stores such as Michaels, offers a unique texture and heft that can bring a distinct quality to printed artworks. Traditionally used for watercolor painting, this 300 gram paper is proving to be an excellent medium for digital prints as well, despite its lack of a specialized inkjet coating.

Exploring Printer and Ink Compatibility

One successful approach to printing on Canson Aquarelle Watercolor Paper involves using printers like the Epson PRO 3800, which can accommodate thicker papers. For inks, opting for quality options such as OCP K3 inks can yield impressive results. Originally, using the Epson profile for “Enhanced Matte Paper” provides a viable starting point. However, for those looking to enhance the print quality, creating a custom profile with devices like the Colormunki can be beneficial.

Custom Profile Creation and Adjustments for Optimal Results

Creating a custom profile for the paper involves calibrating the printer settings to match the unique absorption and color response characteristics of the watercolor paper. In the case of non-coated papers like Canson Aquarelle, adjustments in the image processing software, such as increasing saturation and contrast, are crucial. Tools like Qimage offer features like Deep Focus Sharpening, which can help in compensating for the paper’s textural features, ensuring sharp and vibrant outputs.

Choosing the Right Content and Preparation for Printing

The choice of images for printing on textured paper should be deliberate. Images with a full tonal range from deep blacks to bright whites are ideal as they showcase the paper’s ability to display both subtle and stark contrasts effectively. Before printing, resizing the image to fit the paper and adjusting the file to accommodate for the lack of inkjet coating ensures that the nuances of the artwork are preserved.

Final Presentation and Lighting

Once printed, the artwork can be presented effectively using adequate lighting. Halogen lamps, for example, can accentuate the depth and saturation of the colors on the Canson Aquarelle paper. For photographic documentation or display, lighting plays a pivotal role in how the texture and color vibrancy are perceived.

Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility

An often overlooked advantage of using Canson Aquarelle Watercolor Paper for digital printing is its cost-effectiveness. The paper can be significantly more affordable compared to specialized digital print papers, especially when purchased in bulk. Coupled with the low cost of high-quality inks like OCP K3, artists and photographers can produce exceptional prints at a fraction of the usual cost.

For enthusiasts looking to explore the synergy between digital printing and traditional artist papers, delving into this method can unlock new creative potentials. By tweaking traditional printing approaches and embracing the unique qualities of papers like Canson Aquarelle, the artistic outcomes can be both satisfying and visually striking.

For more insights into innovative printing techniques and digital art practices, consider following BCH Technologies on their YouTube channel, reading more on our Tech blog, or visiting us locally in Greensboro, North Carolina. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, exploring the possibilities of digital printing on unconventional mediums like watercolor paper can lead to surprising and delightful results.