This paper buckles severely if you like to paint very wet, definitely need to stretch it. The paper feels like the cotton fibres are very tightly compacted I guess might be the reason why it buckles so much. Having said that the surface is nice to paint on, the water stays suspended on the surface for some time giving time to play. I bought the hot press paper which has a surface like drawing paper, it has surface texture bot not bumpy and not smooth either. I will get the cold press/rough next time.