Hello, I use the cheapest Russian paper without texture. It is quite dense and does not tear. there is no gray in the paper - the main thing is that it should not be watercolor, not too dense and without texture.

I've used Canson XL Mixed Media paper that I bought in a roll successfully but I'm sure other types would work as well. You basically stretch it the same way you would a canvas but use your hand instead of any kind of tool to pull it tight. There should still be some "ripples" or waves in the paper while it is still wet when you are done, these will smooth out once it dries. If you pull it too tight while it is wet it will tear when it dries from the shrinkage. I also will wet both sides of the paper before stretching it and sometimes add a touch more water as I'm going and that seems to help as well.

I've this question too. Is it water color paper cold press or other sketching paper?