Strathmore 300 Side Spiral Binding Acid-Free Medium-Weight Mixed Media Pad, 90 lb, 11 X 14 in, 40 Sheets

I tested different surfaces for use with artist's gouache and the Strathmore 400 Series paper/ pad was my #1 choice. I would like to know the fiber content, it is not noted; however, the surface is smooth, fine, and to me almost feels feels slick. Therefore, the gouache doesn't absorb into the surface, like normal fiber or cotton paper! My results seem much crisper and colors are clean and sharp, and not washy. ( I apply the gouache with little water, not in a washy watercolor way.). I have also tried Yuppo, for a slick, non absorptive surface, and the colors are strong and bright , but Yuppo to me is harder to control. The 9" x12" size is a great travel size for my small sketches and paintings, dries very quickly, and doesn't bleed through the back. I use it particularly with my dry gouache travel set I created ( with the help of Bernard Dellario's on line classes through Winslow Art Center.)

My favorite mixed-media paper. I've been using it for years.