Table of Contents
Using Pastels on Wood: A Guide
Why Is Surface Choice So Important When Working With Pastels?
What Tools and Accessories Help Improve Pastel Technique?
What Tools and Accessories Help Improve Pastel Technique?
Using Pastels on Wood: A Guide
Once your wooden surface is prepped, you're ready to start creating with pastels. Remember that pastels can be layered and blended to create a wide range of effects. With the right preparation and technique, you can create stunning pastel artwork on wood.
Why Is Surface Choice So Important When Working With Pastels?
The surface you choose for pastel work plays a critical role in how the pigment behaves and adheres. Pastels rely on friction and tooth to grip the surface—unlike wet mediums, which soak into the substrate. Textured papers like sanded or velour options offer varying degrees of tooth, which can hold multiple layers of pigment and facilitate blending. Smooth papers may be better suited for fine detail but may not retain pigment as well over time. Many artists favour pastel-specific boards or heavyweight paper with a visible grain to maximise colour payoff. Some surfaces are even pre-toned, offering a harmonious base that interacts with pastel hues. Matching the right pastel with the appropriate surface enhances depth, richness, and control, elevating both the technique and final result of any pastel artwork.
What Tools and Accessories Help Improve Pastel Technique?
Sennelier Oil Pastel Set 24 Assorted Portrait
$118.80
Sennelier Oil Pastels
$5.31
Sennelier Oil Pastel Set 24 Still Life
$118.76
While pastels can be applied directly by hand, a range of tools and accessories enhance precision, blending, and cleanliness. Blending stumps, tortillons, and soft brushes allow for controlled gradients and fine detail work, especially useful when working in tight areas or with pastel pencils. Erasers, such as kneadable or vinyl types, help lift pigment without damaging the surface—ideal for correcting errors or creating highlights. Fixatives provide essential protection between layers or upon completion, helping to secure pigment without compromising colour integrity. Storage tools like pastel boxes, trays, or foam-lined cases protect sticks from breakage and make organising hues easier. Choosing the right accessories empowers artists to execute advanced techniques with greater finesse, ultimately making pastel work cleaner, more professional, and more enjoyable.
How Does The Sydney Art Store Support Pastel Artists at Every Stage?
The Sydney Art Store goes beyond offering products by providing a creative ecosystem for pastel artists of all levels. From curated starter sets for beginners to specialised tools for professionals, we ensure each artist has access to the right materials at the right stage. Our educational support, including guidance on fixatives, surfaces, and accessory use, helps simplify technical decisions and allows you to focus on your creative process. You can confidently explore new techniques, experiment with brands, or refine your signature style knowing that our inventory meets high standards. We also maintain up-to-date stock of limited-edition colours, seasonal releases, and bundle offers, ensuring you always have access to the latest and best. With a reputation for quality and community support, The Sydney Art Store remains a reliable destination for all your pastel needs—whether for studio work, gallery preparation, or creative exploration.
