Many well-known calligraphers likely did not start practicing on Xuan paper, simply because Xuan paper is expensive and not plentiful enough for daily practice. Of course, those with exceptional means may have started on Xuan paper from day one. But the truth is, good calligraphy does not require Xuan paper — only when your writing ascends to the level of calligraphic art, and you need long-term preservation or mounting, does Xuan paper become essential. Writing on Xuan paper and on ordinary paper produces completely different effects: the same characters at the same skill level look far more attractive and spirited on Xuan paper.
That said, if you can afford to practice on Xuan paper from the start, that is ideal. So what kind of paper is most commonly used and yields the best results for practice?
Two Recommended Practice Papers
1. Maobian (Bamboo-Fiber) Paper. Available at stationery and calligraphy supply stores, typically sold in reams of 100 sheets or by the sheet, this paper is mostly used for brush calligraphy practice. It is economical and produces results similar to Xuan paper — the only differences are the smaller sheet size, slightly rougher texture, and yellowish tint.
2. Old Newspapers. Especially newsprint. Writing on newspaper offers good absorbency and the ability to both spread and hold ink, achieving an effect comparable to Xuan paper. Practicing calligraphy on old newspapers is also a very common approach.