Preparing Paper for a Drawing

I used to just start drawing and not worry about keeping the edges even and clean, but now I'm much more particular. I really like the crisp look of sharp edges, and the picture can be framed without being covered by a mat. Deckled edges on nice paper can be shown off too, and generally I think it looks more professional.

An example of clean edges on a charcoal drawing, and deckled paper.

For most drawings I buy big papers, usually 22x30 inch, and cut them to be exactly the size I want. This way I'm can make unusual sizes and aspect ratios.

Laying out the big paper and measuring for cutting.

First I measure out and mark the cut lines with pencil. Then I double-check the measurements and look at it from a distance to make sure the corners are square and the lines are straight.

Drawing piece cut out from the big piece.

Some kind of straight edge to cut against is essential, and a fresh razor blade. I try to keep the metal of the straight edge over the drawing side of the cut, so if the blade slips it won't cut into the picture piece. Sometimes I've had to put newsprint under the straight edge to keep it from scratching soft paper.

Artist tape placed around the drawing edges.

After the paper is cut I measure the outlines for the drawing and add light pencil lines. Then I put down  artist's tape outside the lines, this tape has nice soft adhesive that won't tear paper when it gets removed. It seals well enough to keep out charcoal and pencil dust, and has peeled off easily even months later.

Newsprint cut to fit around the back and edges of the drawing paper.

Sealing the back and sides of the paper with newsprint keeps off stray charcoal dust and keeps corners from getting bent from handling.

Bottom side labelled.

Since I usually leave extra space at the bottom for a signature, and try to put the deckles on the bottom, I make sure to mark which side is the bottom. One time I accidentally drew a picture upside down, and only realized when it was finished and unwrapped. So I now label the top and bottom before closing up the newsprint.

Newsprint taped down and sealed with masking tape.

Then I use regular masking tape and seal the newsprint to the artist's tape, being super careful not to  touch it to the drawing paper.

Artist tape and masking tape.

After shredding too many papers pulling the tape off of finishing drawings, I don't use masking tape any more. Even the painter's grade tape can stick unpredictably. Masking tape also has a bad habit of getting gooey and gross after a few months too.