Comments about Canson and Derwent Combo Pack:

I wanted to try out the XL Mixed Media paper and when I saw this deal I could not pass it up. I already own the 24 pack of Derwent Inktense pencils, which I love. When you do the math this is such a great deal!I ended up buying two sets - one was for a gift, but that might not happen.

As far as the paper is concerned, I was going to use it as a practice journal/art journal. I use Blick artist gesso as a base to strengthen the page and then I use watercolors or acrylics on it. The pages tend to curl, but that's to be expected with paper of this weight. I don't particularly care for the fact that it's perforated, especially since this is going to be a semi-permanent art journal/technique book that I'd like to reference later. I am a bit worried that the pages might come off. The gesso has helped a little with this issue, but I have only used it on one side, perhaps if I do both I can create a better seal. I'm considering using masking tape and then gesso.

The texture is nice, one side is super smooth and the other has a bit of texture to it. Colored pencils and graphite pencils work like a charm. When I use a little water to activate my watercolor pencils or crayons I don't have a problem with the paper curling, only when I want to build lots of layers or go crazy with my spray bottle. I would definately recommend this paper to anyone who is starting out in art journaling and who wants to play with colors and various mediums. It's cheaper than watercolor paper and for the deal I got, totally worth the price. I was at my local craft store and they had the 7x10 size on sale so I picked up two more because the 9x12 doesn't fit in my art bag. I really like this paper and I see myself buying it again. I will also buy again from Blick - SUPERB! customer service.

As for the Derwents - LOVE them! These were actually the first watercolor pencils I ever bought, so I don't really have anything to compare them to. They go on smooth and the color is great. I have used them dry on paper, activating with water, dipping the tips directly into water, spraying my paper and then drawing. These are so much fun. I plan on getting all of the available colors because I enjoy working with them and they are permanent once dried, so they're great for drawing and then filling in with regular colored pencils.

Comments about Canson and Derwent Combo Pack:

I use Canson and only Canson sketch books/pads because they are worth the value and they are great for anything type you are sketching like oil,Sketching pencils,acrylic,and watercolor they are perfect and great for the value.