Watercolor Paper Soaking: How to Prep Paper for Better Paint Results

When you watercolor paper soaking, the process of immersing paper in water before painting to prevent buckling. Also known as pre-wetting paper, it's a traditional step many artists still use—but it’s not always the best one. Soaking helps the paper expand evenly so it doesn’t curl or warp when wet paint hits it. But here’s the thing: most people soak paper because they were told to, not because they know why—or if there’s a better way.

There’s a whole group of alternatives that skip soaking entirely. watercolor blocks, pre-stuck pads of paper sealed on all sides that stay flat as you paint let you work right away without tape or a board. gatorboard, a rigid foam-core panel used to mount and stretch paper gives you a stable surface that won’t bend under heavy washes. Even taping paper to a hardboard with artist’s tape can work better than soaking, especially if you’re painting small pieces or just starting out.

Soaking paper sounds simple, but it’s messy, time-consuming, and easy to mess up. Too much water? The paper tears. Not enough? It still curls. And if you’re in a hurry, or painting outdoors, or just hate the cleanup—you’re better off with a block or a mounted sheet. The truth is, most professional watercolorists don’t soak paper anymore. They use tools designed to solve the problem without the hassle.

Below, you’ll find real advice from artists who’ve tried every method. Some still soak—but only for specific effects. Others switched years ago and never looked back. Whether you’re struggling with warped paper, tired of taping, or just want cleaner results, the posts here give you the facts—not the myths.