Any recommendations for etching paper?

[Former_Member]

Hello - I am about to put in an order for some new etching paper to make a new series of prints. Before I do, I was wondering if anyone out there has any strong preferences for a particular brand of paper - Somerset, Arches, BFK Rives, etc etc? I have been using Velin Arches for years but am suddenly a bit tired of the surface texture and was looking for something different. There are so many to choose from. Any recommendations?

[timsouthallart]

My preference is Somerset Velvet 300 gsm. Lovely and soft off-white.

[Former_Member]

I love the feel and the texture of Hahnemuller paper 300 grams, is ideal for etching. Works really good, can even take a very long soak.

[StephanieScottArtist]

Rives BFK has been my favorite for many years.

[Former_Member]

I really love Rives BFK, but it is SUPER soft, like incredibly so. It can stick to deep etch and drypoint. For those I like to use arches cream 260. (i think around there), it's still absorbent acid free goodness but not as cottony and pillowy so it sticks less and picks up the teeny details on drypoints.

[Former_Member]

I like somerset cream as well! it can be thin though.