Fabriano

Overview

Fabriano is an Italian paper manufacturer established in 1264, renowned for producing premium papers across fine arts, drawing, stationery, and security applications. The brand is recognized for its distinctive watermarked papers and centuries-old craftsmanship, serving professional artists, students, and office users globally. Fabriano operates as a key asset within the Fedrigoni Group's portfolio and maintains a strong presence in North American markets through fine arts, hobby and craft sectors, and high-end stationery distribution.

History

Fabriano began paper production in 1264 using cotton fibers and animal gelatin sizing, establishing itself as a pioneer in European papermaking. In 1293, Fabriano papermakers invented the watermark technique to certify paper authenticity and quality. During the Industrial Revolution in 1782, Pietro Miliani consolidated numerous local artisans into the Cartiere Pietro Miliani Fabriano, which became the sector's most important producer and won a gold medal at the 1851 Great Exhibition in London. In 2002, the Fedrigoni Group acquired Cartiere Miliani Fabriano with a 99.99% shareholding, and that same year Fabriano paper was selected for all Euro banknote denominations.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Fabriano papers are manufactured in Italy, leveraging centuries-old production techniques combined with modern industrial processes. The company maintains production facilities in the Marche region, where papermaking has been established since the 13th century. Manufacturing emphasizes both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary quality standards to meet international market demands.

Notable Products

• Fabriano Artistico - Premium watercolor paper with 100% cotton fiber, widely used by professional watercolor artists
• Fabriano Esportazione - Fine drawing paper with distinctive watermark, historically used for official documents and fine art
• Fabriano Watermarked Papers - Papers featuring the signature Fabriano watermark technique, a hallmark of authenticity since 1293
• Euro Banknote Paper - Security paper selected for all Euro denomination printing since 2002
• Fabriano Stationery Range - Writing papers and notebooks combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design

Reputation

Fabriano is regarded as a heritage brand with exceptional credibility among professional artists, illustrators, and fine art practitioners due to its 750+ year history and consistent quality. The brand's watermarked papers are considered industry standards for fine art applications, particularly in watercolor and drawing. Fabriano maintains strong recognition in European and North American markets, though it faces competition from contemporary paper manufacturers. The brand's premium positioning and emphasis on traditional craftsmanship appeal to quality-conscious users, though higher price points may limit accessibility for casual consumers.