Canson Extra White 120gsm A3 Sketch Paper, 50 Sheets — Light Grain for Crisp Lines and Durable Erasing

Canson 1557 Extra White 120gsm A3 sketch paper is a light-grain drawing sheet sold in 50-sheet pads, built to show crisp lines and tolerate repeated erasing for pencil, ink, charcoal and pastel studies.

Made with an extra-bright white tone and a subtle tooth, this 120gsm A3 paper is designed for artists who need a reliable surface for concept sketches, life drawing practice, studies and mixed-media explorations. The light grain produces thin, precise lines while still allowing smooth tonal blending; its construction resists flaking when erased so your surfaces stay clean and usable through many revisions.

What makes this paper good for detailed pencil and ink work?

The surface texture is a light grain that lets pencils and pens lay down fine, controlled marks without catching or skipping. Because the paper is extra white, line contrast is heightened so graphite and ink appear clearer and more vibrant on the page.

• 120gsm weight supports layering without buckling under dry media
• Light grain for razor-sharp lines and consistent shading
• Extra-white tone increases contrast and perceived brightness

How does it handle erasing and reworking sketches?

Canson's formulation for this series prevents surface breakdown during repeated erasing, meaning you can adjust compositions and refine details without paper flaking or pilling. That durability makes it suitable for iterative study and practice sessions where changes are frequent.

• Durable surface resists flaking after vigorous erasure
• Maintains tooth so subsequent marks remain consistent
• Clean-up leaves minimal residue, preserving sheet appearance

Can I use charcoal and pastel on this 120gsm sheet?

Yes — the light texture accepts charcoal and pastel for preliminary value studies and gestures. While the paper can hold soft media, heavier pastel layering or wet techniques may benefit from heavier-weight or textured papers in Canson's other ranges.

• Good for charcoal gestures and light pastel applications
• Not optimised for heavy pastel impasto or wet washes
• Ideal for mixed dry media experiments and sketches

How large is the pad and what formats does it suit?

This pack contains 50 A3 sheets (297 x 420 mm), a versatile size for life drawing, detailed studies and small-format concept work. The sheets are easy to tape to boards or use loose in sketchbooks, giving flexibility for studio or on-location drawing.

• 50 sheets per pad for extended practice and projects
• A3 format fits common easels, drawing boards and scanners
• Loose-sheet format allows trimming, framing or mounting

Who is this for? Canson 1557 Extra White 120gsm A3 sketch paper is aimed at students, illustrators, concept artists and hobbyists who need a bright, light-toothed surface for pencil, ink, charcoal and light pastel work. It’s an economical choice for repeated practice, studies, and early-stage artwork where erasing and refining are part of the process. If you require heavyweight paper for wet media or heavy pastel buildup, consider a heavier Canson sheet, but for crisp line work, clean erasing and bright contrast in A3 format, this pad is an efficient, artist-friendly option.