Paper Facts And Terminology Quiz

A watermark (translucent maker's mark formed into the sheet) is created in the mold and deckle with an articulation on the mold screen or, with manufactured papers, on the dandy roll (mesh cylinder).

The drying oil vehicle in oil paint has a destructive effect on unprotected paper, causing yellowing, embrittlement and deterioration.

The modern ream is 500 sheets, but traditionally a ream consisted of 20 quires (24 sheets each) for a total of 480 sheets.

External sizing on paper reduces absorbency, preventing colors from "sinking in". Heavy external sizing on watercolor papers gives paint luminosity and "sparkle" by partially isolating colors from the reflective white of the paper beneath.

The "deckle edge" of a sheet reveals the transition from the mold screen and the deckle which holds the wet pulp on the mold. A deckle edge is sometimes created on manufactured papers through the use of a water jet.

Hot pressed watercolor paper has a smooth surface that is achieved by pressing the paper between hot metal rollers during the manufacturing process. This results in a paper with minimal texture, allowing for fine details and smooth color transitions in watercolor paintings. Cold pressed watercolor paper, on the other hand, has a slightly textured surface, making it more suitable for creating texture and rougher effects in paintings. Smooth pressed and permanent pressed are not terms commonly used to describe watercolor paper surfaces.

In both writing and printmaking papers, 22x30" was traditionally called Imperial. The largest (48x72") was called "Emperor".

Sizing integrated into the paper pulp is called "internal sizing". This type of sizing imparts stiffness and stability while wet (reduces rippling).

Rag pulp can be either linen or cotton or a combination of both. (Today most 100% rag papers are cotton.)

Crane's offered the first paper formally called "bond" for a client wishing to have personal stationery printed on the same stock used for bank bonds, AKA "bond paper".