What type pf paper?

[Taryth]

I'd like everyone to post what types of paper they're using when doing graphite or charcoal sketching.

I'm using strathmore drawing paper now, but I bought Bristol vellum (it's as thick as cardboard) that I plan to use next time I do a commission sketch.

I'd like to know because I've seen some excellent drawings here, but when I try to draw it seems like maybe I'm using the wrong kinds of paper.`

[artsaves1228]

I use a brand called Arches Watercolor, it is a really rough paper and I think that works best for charcoal cause the charcoal stays in place really well and smooths good too. I've only used graphite like once or twice so I dont have much help on that as I didnt like it much but I've used charcoal on smooth paper and I dont think that works well at all.

heres a pic of the paper I use

[Chart]

Definitely Canson's Bristol smooth. Superb for shading with graphite I never used the vellum because I couldn't find it in stores anywhere, so for now I'll stick to the smooth

[Taryth]

thanks for the tips
I've seen the watercolor paper in the art store near me, they also sell he Bristol Smooth (Strathmore brand)

I'll give the Vellum a try since all of their sketch paper was half price when I bought it and now it's regular price I think so I can't exchange it, but once I get paid for my commission I'm buying new supplies and I'll try both of those papers thanks

[Cold Shiva]

If you work with charcoal, with high detailing, you might find rougher paper rather then bristol smooth, but small in porosity. That means that the paper should not be too thick aswell. Basically, choose an egal, but matte looking paper that does not look rough, but feels rough.