Postcard Watercolor Paper: Strathmore vs. Winsor & Newton

Postcard watercolor paper is an easy, portable choice for designers and creatives exploring watercolor. We recently compared two popular choices:

• Strathmore ST704-4 Watercolor Postcards (5" x 6.875", 15-Pack)

• Winsor & Newton Classic Watercolor Paper Postcard Pad (4" x 6", Natural White)

Both are designed for watercoloring or shareable mini artworks, but the experience using each was a little different.

Side-by-side comparison of the Winsor & Newton Classic watercolor postcards (left) and the Strathmore watercolor postcards (right).

Paper Texture

One of the most noticeable differences between the two postcard watercolor papers was the surface texture. The Winsor & Newton Classic watercolor postcards had a more pronounced texture, giving them a rougher feel. This heavier grain can add character to certain illustrations, especially if you’re working with dry brush techniques or want the texture to show through in washes.

In contrast, the Strathmore watercolor postcards had a much smoother surface, which made it easier to create cleaner gradients and apply color. While some artists may prefer the textured tooth of the Winsor & Newton paper for stylistic reasons, others might find it harder to control for fine details or large, even washes.

The Winsor & Newton Classic watercolor postcards had a more pronounced texture.

The Strathmore watercolor postcards had a much smoother surface.

Ease of Separation

When it comes to usability, the way each postcard is held together in its pad makes a noticeable difference. The Winsor & Newton Classic watercolor postcards pad is bound with a strong adhesive along the top edge. While this keeps the pad neatly intact, it also makes it difficult to remove each postcard cleanly, often requiring extra care to avoid tearing or bending the paper.

In contrast, the Strathmore ST704-4 watercolor postcards are also held together by glue, but the binding is much less aggressive. Each postcard is easier to remove without damage, making the Strathmore set a little more convenient. Whether you’re working on a single card or preparing several for a batch project, the simpler separation makes Strathmore a more user-friendly option.

Smoothness and Color Application

When it comes to applying watercolor, the standout performer was the Strathmore postcard watercolor paper, thanks to its ability to support smoother gradients. Watercolor washes blended more evenly on this surface, resulting in softer transitions and fewer harsh lines. In contrast, the Winsor & Newton paper tended to show more streaking during washes, especially when using larger brushes or applying wet-on-wet techniques. While both options are functional, creatives seeking a polished, smooth finish may prefer the Strathmore cards.

Paper Warping

In terms of structure, both postcard watercolor papers performed similarly under moderate water loads. Some warping was noticeable, particularly with heavier washes, but neither paper warped significantly more than the other. Since these are not 100% cotton papers, slight buckling is expected, especially without tape to hold the edges down. For casual use, the warping is manageable and won’t interfere much with the final artwork, especially once flattened under a book or mat.

Both watercolor postcard papers warped. However, since this was for casual use, it wasn’t really a concern.

Absorbency and Layering

One noticeable difference compared to professional watercolor papers like Arches 100% cotton paper is absorbency. Neither postcard option absorbed pigment as readily or evenly. As a result, creatives will likely need to build up multiple layers to achieve vibrant color. Both papers hold the paint more on the surface, which can delay drying time between layers and require more patience when working with bolder color blends or details.

That said, both postcard watercolor papers still allow for creative layering—just with a lighter hand and a bit more drying time between passes. This makes them ideal for beginners experimenting with technique or experienced artists looking for a casual sketching surface.

Final Thoughts

For creatives searching for a reliable postcard watercolor paper, the Strathmore ST704-4 Watercolor Postcards come out ahead in terms of blending and overall painting experience. However, both Strathmore and Winsor & Newton offer a fun, compact way to explore watercolor without committing to a full-sized sheet or block. Just be prepared to layer slowly and manage a bit of warp—both papers offer great value and creativity in a small, easy-to-share format.