Canson has been producing the finest art and creative papers for over 450 years. The expertise passed down by generations of craftspeople ensures consistent quality, color, and technical properties in each sheet and pad produced.
Although rich in tradition, Canson is also a leader in innovation. In 1783, the company developed the first hot air balloon – made of durable, lightweight paper! The 18th century also saw the introduction of vellums and the invention of a technique for beating pulp.
The company grew through new development and acquisition to become the world’s largest producer of fine art and graphic papers as a division of Arjo Wiggins. A diversified international company, Canson is the only manufacturer in the world to offer papers for all traditional art techniques, papercraft, digital and computer-aided processes, with a wide choice of textures, weights, colors, formats, and presentations. Our papers meet the demanding needs of highly varied users – from architects to art curators; from teachers to designers; from framers to water-colorists.
Canson remains true to its heritage by providing papers that inspire creativity. We invite you to experience the papers used by Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, and discerning consumers worldwide.