As soon as I removed my first sheet of paper out of the box, it immediately reminded me of those wonderful heavy-duty art papers I would often use when I was an art student. It immediately felt substantial as if it was designed to last. No coincidence as this paper is designed for photographers, artists and printmakers. This new edition is part of the highly successful Platinum range and is an upgrade from the Platinum Etching 285. If, like me, you sometimes get confused regarding the emulsion side of the paper, the printing area is slightly more textured and marginally warmer in tone.
In the past I have generally opted for a smooth matt paper (it’s no secret that I have long been a fan of Platinum Matt 280), but this paper takes printing to a new level. The sharpness this paper delivers is astonishing, as indeed is its impressively accurate colour rendition. If you are a monochrome enthusiast, you will be equally impressed by the fabulous tonal range; this paper boasts a wonderful D Max which is complimented by its capacity to render the most subtle mid-tone details.
For me however the most compelling reason for using this paper is for its incredible archival qualities. The Fine Art Trade Guild guarantees a print-life of over 85 years providing pigment inks have been used: that’s a lifetime! If you regularly exhibit your work or possibly sell prints, then Platinum Etching Cotton 310 should become your paper of choice.