What is the primary characteristic of hot-pressed paper?

The primary characteristic of hot-pressed paper is that it features a smooth surface, which allows for better control of pencil marks and fine detailing. This type of paper is often used by artists who require precision, such as those working with pencil, ink, or delicate watercolors. The smoothness minimizes the potential for tooth or texture interrupting the flow of the medium, enabling artists to achieve clean lines and intricate details.

The other options describe various attributes that do not define hot-pressed paper specifically. For instance, textured surfaces are typically found in cold-pressed or rough papers, which cater to different artistic styles. Additionally, hot-pressed paper is usually of standard thickness and is designed to provide a specific finish rather than being thinner than standard drawing papers. While acid-free qualities are important for archival purposes, they are not exclusive to hot-pressed paper and can be found in various types of papers used for art. The defining feature here is the smoothness of the surface, which is ideal for achieving fine, controlled work.