Arches watercolor paper is made in the traditional way, using a cylindrical mold. This method ensures that the fibers are evenly distributed, making the paper extremely stable, so it does not warp or stretch when water is applied to it. Arches watercolor paper is made from long 100% cotton fibers, allowing it to absorb a lot of water without warping or causing colors to bleed. It is sized to the core with natural gelatin, so it can be scratched without tearing or lint. This internal size also prevents paint from penetrating the paper, allowing light to shine through the pigment and reflect off the paper while ensuring durability of the colors.