
( Brand: Strathmore ), ( Part Type: Sheet Paper Pad Top ), ( UPC: 012017380112 )
The **Strathmore 012017380112 300 Series Top Wire-Bound Paper Pad** is a premium sketching and drafting solution designed for artists, architects, engineers, and professionals who demand both durability and versatility in their creative or technical work. This high-quality pad features **32 sheets of 11x17-inch (27.9 x 43.2 cm) 300-series paper**, renowned for its smooth, acid-free surface that offers an ideal balance between tooth and smoothness, making it perfect for a wide range of media from graphite and charcoal to colored pencils, markers, and light watercolor applications. The **top wire-binding system** ensures the pad remains open flat at any angle, eliminating the frustration of pages shifting or curling, while the sturdy cardboard cover provides both protection and a professional finish. Whether you're sketching architectural plans, illustrating detailed storyboards, or refining technical drawings, this pad delivers exceptional paper quality that resists wrinkling and maintains its integrity even with heavy use. Its neutral, off-white tone enhances visibility for fine details, and the acid-free composition ensures longevity, preventing yellowing or degradation over time. Ideal for both studio and on-the-go use, this pad combines functionality with artistry, making it a reliable choice for anyone who requires precision and performance in their creative or professional projects.
**Pros and Cons of buying a Strathmore 012017380112 300 Series Pad (11x17, 32 Sheets, Top Wire Bound)**
### **Pros:**1. **High-Quality Paper** Strathmore s 300 series is known for its smooth, acid-free, and archival-quality paper, making it ideal for professional artists, illustrators, and designers who require durability and vibrant colors.
2. **Versatile Surface** The cold-pressed texture provides a balanced surface suitable for a variety of mediums, including pencils, charcoal, markers, and light watercolors, though it may not be ideal for heavy watercolor work.
3. **Professional-Grade** The paper is thick (100 lb/300 gsm) and resistant to tearing, which is beneficial for detailed work and layering techniques.
4. **Wire-Bound Convenience** The top wire binding allows for easy page turning without damaging the paper, making it practical for long sessions.
5. **Standard Size (11x17)** This is a common professional sketching size, making it compatible with most drawing boards, lightboxes, and scanning setups.
6. **Ample Sheets (32)** A decent quantity for practice, studies, or small projects, though not excessive for heavy use.
7. **Durable Cover** The cardboard cover protects the paper from dust and minor handling damage.
### **Cons:**1. **Expensive for the Quantity** At 32 sheets, the cost per sheet is relatively high compared to bulk packs or cheaper brands, which may not be cost-effective for casual users.
2. **Limited for Heavy Watercolor Work** While suitable for light watercolor, the paper may buckle or bleed if subjected to heavy water application without proper preparation (e.g., sizing or gesso).
3. **Wire Binding Can Be Flawed** Over time, the wire binding may stretch or weaken, especially if the pad is frequently opened and closed aggressively.
4. **Not Ideal for Digital Transfer** Unlike some sketchbooks with grid lines or tracing paper, this pad lacks features that assist with digital-to-analog workflows.
5. **Smaller Quantity for Large Projects** If you work on extensive illustrations or need multiple reference sketches, 32 sheets may fill up quickly.
6. **No Pre-Printed Grids or Guidelines** Unlike some sketchbooks, this pad does not include helpful reference lines, requiring users to draw their own.
### **Conclusion:**The Strathmore 300 Series 11x17 pad is a **superior choice for professional artists, illustrators, or designers** who prioritize paper quality, durability, and versatility in mediums like pencil, charcoal, or light watercolor. Its wire binding and standard size make it practical for studio use, though the cost per sheet may be prohibitive for hobbyists or those working on large-scale projects. If you frequently use heavy watercolors or need a larger quantity, alternative brands (e.g., Canson, Fabriano, or cheaper Strathmore series) may offer better value.
### **Recommendation:**- **Buy if:** You are a professional or serious artist who values high-quality paper and needs a reliable sketching pad for detailed work. The 300 series is worth the investment for longevity and performance.
- **Consider alternatives if:** You are a beginner, work primarily with watercolors, or need a larger quantity at a lower cost. In that case, explore bulk packs of 140 lb/300 gsm paper or other brands like Canson XL or Mungyo.
- **Pair with:** A drawing board, blending stumps, and a good eraser to maximize the pad s potential. If using watercolors, consider applying a sizing solution or using a watercolor pad specifically designed for heavy use.
An ideal foundation for messier mediums, this pad provides a strong surface suitable charcoals, oil pastels, crayons, and more. 100% Genuine Free Shipping Cards. The Strathmore 300 Series Charcoal Pad contains a natural white paper with traditional laid finish.