Plate vs. Smooth Bristol

What is the difference between the smooth surface of your 400 series Bristol and the plate surface of your 500 series Bristol?

While both smooth and plate surfaces offer a finish suitable for smooth, fine line details, our plate surface is considered an "ultra-smooth" finish which is ideal for the professional illustrator. The surface is excellent for detailed work with pen and ink, technical pen, airbrush and markers.

The term "plate" comes from a process that is exclusive to the Strathmore® brand. The finish is created by hand – layering sheets of paper between special metal plates to create a "book." The book is sent to a specialized piece of equipment that compresses it creating a very consistent, ultra smooth surface like no other.