My new pack of Fabriano Artistico 300lb hot press is not behaving normally - softer surface, possibly less sizing? When I pulled off the tape I use to hold it down and mask edges ( same roll of artists tape I have been using) the surface of the paper was partially shredded! I have used this combination for years and never had this happen. What has changed and what can I do about it?

The mill has made some significant changes to the Artistico range in recent years. The deckles are gone and the sizing characteristics have changed. This could cause some of what you're seeing.