July 24, 2026 · MoonBloom
What Paper to Use for Printing Your Kids' Art Prints
A beautiful illustration deserves paper that matches its quality.
Often, we spend time choosing the perfect illustration, the ideal frame, or the right spot to place it, but we forget one element that completely transforms the outcome: the paper.
The same illustration can look like a basic print or a true artistic work simply by changing the type of paper.
If you want your prints to convey the softness, delicacy, and texture of a watercolor, this guide will help you choose the best option.
Why is paper so important?
When an illustration is created with a delicate finish in mind, the paper becomes part of the artwork itself.
In watercolor illustrations, like those from the MoonBloom collections, the paper directly influences:
• color depth;
• gradient softness;
• texture perception;
• visual quality;
• print durability.
That's why two prints made from the same file can look completely different.
Glossy Paper or Matte Paper
This is one of the most common questions.
Glossy Paper
The glossy finish makes colors appear very vibrant.
However:
• it produces reflections;
• it distracts the eye;
• it reduces the sense of naturalness;
• it does not favor watercolor illustrations.
For children's decor, it is usually not the most recommended option.
Matte Paper
Matte paper offers a much more elegant appearance.
Colors are soft.
It does not reflect light.
The illustration appears closer to an original work.
It is the finish we recommend for almost all MoonBloom illustrations.
Our Favorite: Fine Art Paper
If we could only recommend one type of paper, it would be Fine Art.
Why?
Because it achieves a perfect balance between texture, color, and durability.
Its main advantages are:
• artistic appearance;
• excellent color reproduction;
• very pleasant texture;
• great stability over time;
• finish very similar to that of an original watercolor.
It is the type of paper used by many illustrators and art galleries.
Cotton Paper
An even more exclusive option.
Papers made from cotton offer a very special texture.
They feel warm to the touch.
The watercolor seems to integrate within the paper itself.
It's a fantastic option if you're looking for a premium print.
What Weight to Choose?
Weight indicates the thickness of the paper.
As a guideline:
Up to 120 g
Too thin.
It resembles office paper.
We do not recommend it.
160–200 g
A good option for home printing.
200–250 g
Excellent balance between quality and price.
Ideal for most households.
250–310 g
Our favorite weight.
Very professional appearance.
Perfect for framing.
Over 310 g
Museum quality.
Very durable.
Especially recommended for Fine Art prints.
Smooth or Textured Paper
MoonBloom illustrations are inspired by traditional watercolor.
That's why papers with a slight texture tend to enhance the result much better.
It doesn't have to be a very pronounced texture.
A smooth surface with a slight relief adds depth and makes the illustration feel more organic.
Papers We Recommend
If you are going to print at a specialized print shop, you can ask for papers similar to these:
• Hahnemühle Photo Rag.
• Hahnemühle German Etching.
• Canson Rag Photographique.
• Canson Edition Etching.
• Epson Hot Press Bright.
• Epson Cold Press.
• Moab Entrada Rag.
• Ilford Cotton Textured.
All of them provide magnificent results with watercolor illustrations.
Papers to Avoid
Not all papers favor this type of illustration.
We would avoid:
• very glossy satin paper;
• photographic paper with a lot of reflection;
• 80 g office paper;
• very yellow papers;
• excessively recycled papers with visible thick fibers.
What If I Print at Home?
No problem at all.
Just try to use:
• matte paper;
• at least 200 g;
• maximum quality printing;
• original inks if possible.
With a good home printer, you can achieve really beautiful results.
How to Preserve the Print
To keep the illustrations looking good for many years:
• use frames with glass or acrylic;
• avoid direct sunlight;
• maintain moderate humidity;
• store unframed copies protected by a rigid folder.
Choosing good paper is one of the simplest decisions and, at the same time, one of the most influential on the final result.
MoonBloom illustrations have been designed to convey calm, delicacy, and naturalness. A matte or Fine Art paper allows these qualities to be perceived much better than a conventional glossy paper.
If you are preparing your baby's room, it is worth taking a few minutes to choose the right support. It's a small detail that will make a big difference every time you look at the illustration.
Discover the Whispers of Autumn Collection
All illustrations in the collection are prepared for high-resolution printing on artistic papers and have been designed to look especially good in matte and Fine Art finishes.
Explore the collection and find the perfect combination to create a warm, natural, and timeless space.