What characteristic distinguishes hot press watercolor paper?

Hot press watercolor paper is distinguished by its very smooth surface. This characteristic makes it particularly suitable for techniques that require fine detail, such as illustrations or very detailed watercolor work. The smoothness of the paper allows for a clean application of paint, with minimal texture to disrupt the flow of colors. Artists often prefer hot press paper for achieving fine lines and precise washes, as it handles wet media well without the interference of texture, which can be more pronounced in other types of watercolor papers.

In contrast, options related to textured surfaces would typically refer to cold press watercolor paper, known for its more pronounced texture, allowing for varied textural effects. Heavyweight paper is a feature found in various types of watercolor papers, but it is not a distinguishing characteristic of hot press specifically, as both hot and cold press papers can come in multiple weights.