Vellum paper for drawing, tracing and elegant stationery

Vellum is prized for its translucency, smooth surface and ability to accept inks and pencils cleanly. It’s used for tracing, overlay effects in design work and premium invitations. Selecting the right weight and finish ensures the outcome you expect, from sketch overlays to calligraphy pieces.

What to look for in vellum

Weight determines stiffness and opacity—lighter sheets are more translucent while heavier vellum holds ink with less show-through. Choose inkjet-friendly vellum if you plan to print, and pick a surface finish that suits your tool: smooth for technical pens, slightly toothy for pencil shading.

Uses and handling tips

• Tracing patterns and layering illustrations for composition work.
• Calligraphy, invitations and menu overlays for a refined touch.
• Mixed-media artworks where translucency adds depth.
• Architectural or craft templates that need crisp lines.
• Protective overlays for delicate prints and documents.

Store vellum flat and away from humidity to prevent cockling. When shopping, consider buying smaller sample packs first to test compatibility with your pens or printer. Clearance packs sometimes include useful sheets for practice, but verify print compatibility before purchasing large quantities.