Paper & Boards

Above Ground Art Supplies is your trusted paper store in Toronto, specializing in premium-quality paper supplies.

We offer a selection of paper art tools and materials from reputable brands to suit any artistic project. No matter your vision, we have the perfect canvas to express your creativity

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right weight of paper for my project?

To determine which paper style is best suited to your project, consider the type of art you’re looking to create.

Artwork that involves multiple layers may require a heavier, more durable paper, such as a paper board, while sketchwork can benefit from a lighter paper. Texture is also an important element to consider. Rough or textured papers offer a better grip for charcoal or watercolour paint, while softer paper is typically best suited to drawing or ink-based work.

Try sampling your art on different weights and textures to see which option works best.

What paper supplies and boards do Above Ground Art Supplies offer?

At Above Ground Art Supplies, we offer a broad selection of premium paper materials, including:

Blank Cards: Whether you’re creating your own stationery or sending a personalized message to someone special, we have options for you. Our blank cards are available in a range of mediums and sizes to suit any project.

Boards: Our selection of paper boards offers a durable and sturdy base for your next painting, drawing, or wall-mounting artwork.

Decorative Paper: If you’re creating a paper sculpture or looking to design your own ornaments, we offer bold, brightly-coloured decorative paper to bring texture and dimension to your art.

Digital Papers: Using digital papers with unique textures and patterns offers more design possibilities for your digital artwork, graphic designs, or scrapbooking projects.

Notebooks & Journals: Capture your ideas and inspirations on our premium notebooks and journals from the brands you know and love.

Pads & Sketchbooks: From smooth drawing paper to textured watercolour surfaces, our selection of pads and sketchbooks offers the perfect canvas.

Rolls: Elevate your large-scale projects with our paper rolls, designed to be customized just for you.

Sheets: For convenience and precision, trust our paper sheets to help you bring your printmaking, painting, or collage project to life.

What type of projects can decorative papers be used for?

Decorative paper is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of creative projects, including:

  • Gift Wrapping
  • Card Making
  • Scrapbooking
  • Paper Crafts
  • Decoupage
  • Mixed Media
  • Origami
  • Paper Jewelry
  • Framed Prints

At Above Ground Art Supplies, we offer decorative paper in brightly coloured corrugated sheets for all your creative projects.

What is the difference between rolls and sheets?

While rolls and sheets are both used in a variety of artistic projects, they do differentiate when it comes to their form and how they’re used.

Rolls are not pre-cut; artists can cut their desired size and orientation. This style is typically used by artists looking to create larger or more customized shapes and is commonly used in industries like printmaking and drafting, where large-scale artwork is made.

Sheets, on the other hand, are pre-cut and are often available in set sizes. This type of paper is best suited for smaller-scale projects such as sketching or painting and is ideal for artists working in traditional studio settings.

How do I preserve my paper supply?

Preserving your paper supply is crucial to its integrity and longevity. Here are some tips to help you protect your paper from damage.

  1. Store in a temperature-controlled room.
  2. Use acid-free folders, sleeves, or mat boards to prevent yellowing.
  3. Handle your paper with gloves or wash your hands to avoid smudging.
  4. Store in closed containers or portfolios to avoid contact with dirt and debris.
  5. Store your paper flat or rolled, depending on size, to prevent creases.
  6. Regularly monitor the room temperature where your paper is stored for changes in humidity or exposure to light.

What are the differences between notebooks and sketchbooks?

Notebooks and sketchbooks can serve similar purposes, but there are important differences to note before visiting a paper store in Toronto.

Notebooks are commonly used for writing everyday notes or for journaling purposes. They often have lines or grid paper inside, which provides a writing structure. Notebooks can come in various sizes and styles, including spiral-bound, softcover, or hardcover.

Sketchbooks are typically used for drawing or sketching and are designed with blank pages, which allows for more artistic expression. Sketchbooks are ideal for graphite, ink, charcoal, watercolour, and pastel art.

What paper brands do Above Ground Art Supplies carry?

Browse our list of premium paper supply brands we carry:

  • Strathmore
  • Arches
  • Fabriano
  • Daler-Rowney Canford
  • Murano
  • 13 Sedicesimi
  • Hahnemühle
  • Legion
  • Crescent
  • RENDR
  • Canson
  • Magnani
  • Bockingford
  • Saunders Waterford
  • Graphix
  • Borden & Riley
  • UART Pastel Paper
  • Winsor & Newton
  • Folia
  • Cavallini & Co Paper
  • LAMALI
  • Yasutomo
  • Travelogue
  • Moleskine
  • Fluid
  • Canson
  • Quattro Artist Journals
  • Black Ink
  • Kunst & Papier
  • Rhodia
  • Bienfang

What other art materials do Above Ground Art Supplies offer?

At Above Ground Art Supplies, you’ll find a wide selection of art materials and equipment, including:

Visit us online today to find the right supplies and materials for your artistic project.

What sets Above Ground Art Supplies apart from other paper stores in Toronto?

At Above Ground Art Supplies, we know that to make great art, you need excellent materials. That’s why we’ve dedicated our efforts to sourcing only the highest-quality paper supplies, drawing materials, and art equipment on the market — all in one convenient location.

We help professional artists and students alike bring their creativity to life. No matter the project, you can find the right materials to create your best art yet. Our passion for art in all its forms motivates us to continue growing our business.

Find us today in Toronto or browse our expansive collection online.

Where can I buy paper supplies near me?

Above Ground Art Supplies is proud to be Toronto’s go-to supplier for high-quality paper materials. With two retail locations and a convenient online selection, finding the right supplies for your project has never been easier.

Shop our paper supply store today or visit us at one of our store locations — 74 McCaul Street and 2868 Dundas St. W.