Now available in convenient pads, Arches Oil Paper is "ready to use" without preparation. Specifically designed for oil painting, this 100% cotton, 140 lb (300 gsm) paper features a powerful, efficient oil barrier that absorbs water, solvents, and binders evenly while allowing the paint and pigment to remain on the surface. Arches Oil Paper is less brittle and stiff than gessoed papers and resists chipping or cracking, so it can easily be cut to a desired size, rolled, and transported. While it has the soft look and feel of traditional Arches papers, this durable paper has an exceptionally tough surface that withstands palette knife techniques, heavy brushing with stiff bristle brushes, and even wet paint removal with turpentine and a rag. Arches Oil Paper is acid-free and contains no optical brighteners, which means your artwork will stand the test of time. The pads have a fold-over cover, glued on the short side.