Chinese Paper and Silk
Chinese painting may be done either on Chinese paper or silk.
Chinese Paper
The original paper (around 100 AD.)was made from 
many different materials including pulp, old fishing nets and bark. Modern paper is often machine made. It is classed in degrees of weight and amount of size used. The paper is very absorbent and the amount of size in it will dictate the quantity of ink used for strokes on the paper. Different paper produce different results; some are rough and absorb ink quickly like a sponge; others have a smooth surface which resists ink. Chinese paper is usually known as rice paper in English.
Chinese Silk
Before painting on silk, the silk should be treated with alum and glue before use. This method makes silk less absorbent than paper. Brushstroke is best shown on paper. Because of this reason and the paper's variety of texture and finish, paper quickly became favored by artists and calligraphers.
