The 2 Meanings of Vellum

The term vellum as it relates to paper can be somewhat confusing because it can refer to two distinct aspects:

1. Vellum as a Paper
2. Vellum as a Finish

Vellum as a Paper

Traditional vellum, like parchment, was an early writing surface. In ancient times, it was made from the skin of calves, goats and lambs. The vellum was prepared by exposing it to a lengthy lime bath, then the skins were scraped down with a rounded knife and rubbed smooth with a pumice stone. The term vellum is derived from the French word “veau” which translates to veal and referred to a parchment made from calf skin. It was known as a better quality of parchment with grain and hair marks producing a somewhat irregular and desirable surface.

Over time, vellum was used to describe a high rag paper, usually with a creamy white color and smooth surface that imitated traditional vellum. Printing diplomas and certificates became a popular use of vellum paper. Today the term vellum is often used to describe a very translucent, smooth paper surface.

Vellum as a Finish

Vellum finish is used to describe a somewhat toothy surface on drawing or Bristol paper. Over time, several like terms have been established to describe this toothy finish: vellum, medium, regular and kid. Strathmore makes a number of popular products with a vellum surface: 300 Series Bristol, 400 Series Bristol, and 500 Series Bristol.

A vellum finish is most desirable for graphite, colored pencil, charcoal, pastel, and crayon. The surface has peaks and valleys, which grab the dry media, helping the artist achieve more layers and deeper tones.

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