Table of Contents
The Role of Coloured Pencils in Mixed Media Art
How Important Are Paper and Surface Choices When Using Coloured Pencils?
How Do You Preserve and Display Coloured Pencil Artwork?
How Do You Preserve and Display Coloured Pencil Artwork?
The Role of Coloured Pencils in Mixed Media Art
Coloured pencils are often overlooked as a primary medium for creating mixed media art, yet they offer a unique set of benefits that can enhance any artwork. As a staple in every artist's toolkit, they offer unparalleled precision and control, allowing for intricate detailing and blending. Thanks to their versatility, they can be used with a variety of other materials like watercolours, oil pastels, or acrylic paints. Combined with the right surface, such as high-quality sketchbooks or art boards, coloured pencils can be used for underdrawings, layering, or adding final touches to a mixed media piece. This flexibility makes them an excellent tool for both professional and amateur artists. In the curated collection of art supplies at The Sydney Art Store, you can find a wide range of premium coloured pencils, designed for lasting performance and vibrant results. Whether you're exploring mixed media art for the first time or you're a seasoned artist, coloured pencils can significantly elevate your creative process.
How Important Are Paper and Surface Choices When Using Coloured Pencils?
The paper you choose can significantly impact how coloured pencils behave, from colour intensity to blending performance. Heavier papers with a medium or rough tooth—such as hot-pressed watercolour paper or bristol board—offer the texture needed for layering and burnishing. Smooth papers are better suited for fine detail and light layering but may limit the depth achievable with some brands. For solvent blending, you’ll want surfaces that can handle light moisture without warping. Toned papers are ideal for high-contrast work, helping highlights and shadows stand out. Some artists also opt for sanded papers or mixed-media boards when aiming for maximum layering. Understanding your surface allows you to take full advantage of your pencils’ potential, from delicate shading to bold, painterly effects.
How Do You Preserve and Display Coloured Pencil Artwork?
Caran D’Ache Museum Aquarelle Colour Pencils
$6.27
Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils Set
$43.60
Conte Pastel Pencils
$7.50
Proper preservation of coloured pencil artwork involves a combination of protective practices and presentation choices. While many artists spray a fixative over the final piece to prevent smudging, it’s essential to use products designed specifically for coloured pencils to avoid dulling the vibrancy. Framing under UV-resistant glass with an acid-free mat and backing board adds another layer of protection against light exposure, humidity, and physical wear. Artwork should be stored flat in archival sleeves or portfolios when not on display. Choosing display locations away from direct sunlight and fluctuating temperatures can further extend the life of your work. Whether for exhibition or personal enjoyment, careful preservation ensures that each piece retains its colour integrity and professional finish, preserving the effort that went into its creation.
What Makes The Sydney Art Store a Destination for Coloured Pencil Sets?
The Sydney Art Store curates a diverse and dependable selection of coloured pencil sets, available in open stock and full-range collections. We offer pencils with wax-based or oil-based cores, water-soluble varieties, and pencils engineered for specific techniques like burnishing or underpainting. Our extensive range allows artists to find the perfect set for their specific needs, whether for detailed sketching or vibrant colour work. Additionally, we carry unique sets tailored to specific palettes—such as skin tones, landscapes, or monochrome studies—allowing for intentional colour planning and focused creativity. This variety and our commitment to quality make The Sydney Art Store a destination for artists who seek the very best tools to enhance their coloured pencil work and bring their vision to life.
