I have recently read that there is a sizing applied to sheets of paper to prevent from there being fingerprints on the paper. This is said to not be on the blocks or pads. If this is true it is also said it should be removed before painting (watercolor) by soaking it in lukewarm water for a few seconds and then hanging it to dry. Can you tell me if this is in fact true and if so is this a necessary step?

After consulting with our paper mill partners we are unaware of any paper that has a special surface sizing to prevent fingerprints on paper. If this sizing is in fact real, it is not applied to any of Legions papers. There is no need to soak the paper unless you wish to work wet-in-wet or stretch the paper.