What are some recommended brands of paper for fountain pen writing or calligraphy?

Several brands have earned the trust of fountain pen and calligraphy enthusiasts through consistent performance:

Tomoe River Paper: Renowned for its ultra‐smooth finish and controlled ink absorption, Tomoe River Paper accentuates ink sheen and minimizes bleed‑through even though it is lightweight. It’s especially popular for shading inks 5.

Rhodia: Known for high‑quality notebooks and pads, Rhodia offers paper that is smooth, bright, and optimized for fountain pen use—providing a clean platform with minimal feathering.

Clairefontaine: Often dubbed the gold standard for fountain pen paper, Clairefontaine products are celebrated for their exceptional smoothness and minimal bleed‑through, resulting in a pristine writing experience .

Additional reputable options include products from Midori, Maruman, Mnemosyne, and Leuchtturm1917. These brands are regularly discussed in fountain pen forums and have been extensively rated and reviewed for their performance.