The Best Pens for Different Types of Paper: A Complete Guide!

When it comes to writing, drawing or sketching, the choice of pen is just as important as the paper you’re working on. Whether you’re taking notes, sketching artwork or drawing up plans, the right combination of pen and paper can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll help you choose the best pen for different types of paper, so you can always get the most out of your writing instruments.

1. Fine Writing Paper (80-100 grams)
Fine writing paper is often thin and smooth, ideal for writing letters, notes or in bullet journals. Because the paper is thin, it can quickly bleed through if you use the wrong pen.

Recommended pens:

• Fineliners : For precision and clean lines without bleeding. Fineliners have a fine point (usually 0.4 mm or less), which is perfect for writing on thinner paper.
• Ballpoint pens : Ballpoint pens are versatile and are less likely to bleed through thinner paper because they release less ink than, for example, gel pens.
• Fine point gel pens (0.5 mm) : These deliver more ink than ballpoint pens, but produce clear lines without bleeding through too much on 80-gram paper.

2. Heavier Notebook Paper (100-120 grams)
Notebooks with heavier paper feel more sturdy and are suitable for everyday use, such as taking notes, bullet journaling or personal planning. This paper can absorb more ink without bleeding or smudging.

Recommended pens:

• Gel Pens : For bright, vivid lines that glide effortlessly across paper. Gel pens are perfect for notebooks with thicker paper, as they release more ink.
• Ballpoint Pens : Because ballpoint pens release less ink, they are useful for everyday use on heavier paper. They prevent smudging and provide clean, consistent lines.
• Felt-tip pens : Felt-tip pens, such as felt-tip pens, give your drawings and texts more flair and depth, ideal for bullet journaling on thicker paper.

3. Sketchbooks (120-160 grams)
For artistic creations, sketchbooks or paper specifically intended for art projects, it is important to use a pen that draws rich lines without damaging the paper.

Recommended pens:

• Fineliners (0.4-0.8mm) : These are perfect for detailed work, such as contouring or creating fine details in your drawings. They flow beautifully on heavier sketch paper and provide sharp, detailed lines.
• Felt-tip pens : Suitable for artistic sketches and illustrations. Felt-tip pens give intense colours and work well on heavier paper without the risk of bleeding through.
• Gel Pens : For adding accents or details with bright, vibrant colors. Gel pens are perfect for sketchbooks with thicker paper.

4. Watercolor paper (160+ grams)
Watercolor paper is thick and specially designed to absorb a lot of ink or watercolor without smudging or tearing. This type of paper is ideal for artistic projects and painterly illustrations.

Recommended pens:

• Waterproof Fineliners : These pens produce crisp, clear lines that are water resistant, ideal for watercolor work where you want to preserve pen outlines.
• Brush pens : These pens have a flexible point and can range from fine lines to broad strokes, perfect for calligraphy and painterly effects on watercolor paper.
• Watercolor markers : For a flowing mix of color and watery effects, ideal for watercolor paper.

5. Photo Paper or Glossy Paper
Photo paper or glossy paper is usually used for special projects, such as printing photos or creating graphic designs. This type of paper requires a pen that dries quickly and does not smudge on the smooth surface.

Recommended pens:

• Permanent markers : For writing or drawing on glossy paper, permanent markers are the best choice because they dry quickly and do not smudge.
• Gel ink pens (with quick drying ink) : Make sure to use quick drying gel pens so that your lines stay sharp and don't smear on the smooth surface.

6. Recycled Paper
Recycled paper can feel a little rougher and is often a little thicker than standard paper. This means that it will not hold every pen equally well.

Recommended pens:

• Ballpoint Pens : For clean, neat lines without smudging. Ballpoint pens work best on recycled paper because the ink dries quickly.
• Fineliners : Also suitable for recycled paper, especially if you want to create detailed lines without the ink bleeding through.
• Felt-tip markers : These work well on recycled paper, especially for creative projects or adding color.

The right pen for the right paper
When choosing writing instruments, it is important to consider which pen is best suited to the paper you are using. Choosing the right combination will not only help you get the most out of your writing or drawing experience, but will also help you avoid unwanted smudging, bleeding or other problems.

Whether you’re an artist, a bullet journal enthusiast, or someone who’s just looking for a good notebook, the right pen can transform your writing experience. Try out different combinations to find the one that works best for you!