There is something honest about raw xuan paper. The moment ink touches its surface, it breathes — spreading softly, finding its own edges. No two strokes look the same.
This is sheng xuan, the unprocessed kind. Highly absorbent and wonderfully unpredictable, it is the paper of choice for expressive ink painting, sumi-e, and Chinese calligraphy. Let the paper do some of the work.
50 sheets per pack
Size: 13.66 in × 13.66 in
Raw (sheng) xuan — highly absorbent, natural ink spread
Suitable for ink painting, sumi-e, calligraphy, and watercolor
Beginner-friendly — forgiving and expressive
Which xuan paper is right for you?
Not all xuan paper behaves the same way. Here is a simple guide to help you choose:
Raw xuan (sheng xuan) — this paper: Highly absorbent. Ink spreads and blooms freely. Best for expressive brushwork, landscape painting, and calligraphy. Embraces happy accidents.
Sized xuan (shu xuan): Treated with alum, so ink sits on the surface rather than soaking in. Gives you full control. Best for detailed gongbi (fine line) painting and precise work.
Semi-sized xuan (ban sheng shu): The middle ground. Some absorption, some control. Ideal for beginners who want a little of both — expressive but not unpredictable.
If you are just starting out, raw xuan teaches you to trust the brush. A quiet stack of paper, waiting for your first mark.
