CANSON Montval Watercolour Block A5, 300 g/m², 70 sheets, fine surface, glued on one edge

CANSON Montval Watercolour Block A5 provides 70 sheets of 300 g/m² fine-surface paper glued on one edge for secure handling and easy removal. The heavyweight paper is formulated for watercolour techniques, washes and mixed media, offering controlled absorbency and surface strength to reduce buckling and allow multiple layers of pigment. The A5 format is compact for studio use, sketches and finished artworks, and the single-edge glue keeps sheets flat while you work.

Advantages

The fine surface of this Montval block balances texture and smoothness to accommodate detailed brushwork as well as broader washes. At 300 g/m², the paper provides dimensional stability and resists cockling when wet, enabling several lifting and glazing techniques. The block format with one glued edge ensures the sheet remains securely in place during painting and can be removed cleanly for display or scanning. The pack of 70 sheets offers a long-lasting supply for practice and production.

Suitable for

• Traditional watercolour techniques including wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry
• Light to medium mixed media involving inks and water-soluble pencils
• Studio sketches, studies and finished small-format paintings
• Practice sessions, classes and plein air quick studies

When it may not be suitable

This block is intended for watercolour and related media; it may not be ideal for heavy-bodied acrylics, thick impasto techniques or oil painting, which require primed or heavier substrates. Extremely aggressive scrubbing or prolonged heavy washes may still cause minor surface wear over time despite the paper's weight.

Key specifications

• Format: A5 (148 x 210 mm)
• Paper weight: 300 g/m²
• Sheet count: 70 sheets
• Surface: fine texture
• Binding: glued on one edge (block)
• Suitable media: watercolour, inks, water-soluble pencils, light mixed media

How to use

Work on the glued block directly to keep the sheet flat while applying washes. For larger or more controlled washes, tape the edges to a rigid board before painting to further prevent movement. Allow layers to dry fully before adding subsequent glazes or lifting. When the painting is finished, gently lift the glued edge to separate the sheet; if necessary, use a razor blade or palette knife to release the sheet cleanly along the glue line.

What to consider before purchase

• Confirm that 300 g/m² weight and fine surface match your preferred watercolour handling and texture.
• Consider whether A5 format fits your project size or if a larger format is needed.
• Check that glued-edge block format suits your workflow versus individual loose sheets or spiral pads.

Usage recommendations

For best results, use a moderate amount of water for washes, build layers gradually, and test mixed-media combinations on a spare sheet. Store the block flat in a dry place to maintain sheet integrity and prevent warping over time.