Table of Contents
Exploring the Possibilities: Mixing Different Types of Pastels
Why Is Surface Choice So Important When Working With Pastels?
How Do Oil Pastels Compare to Other Types of Pastels?
How Do Oil Pastels Compare to Other Types of Pastels?
Exploring the Possibilities: Mixing Different Types of Pastels
In essence, mixing different types of pastels can open up a world of artistic possibilities. With our high-quality and versatile pastels, artists can experiment with various techniques and create artworks that truly reflect their creativity.
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.
How Do Oil Pastels Compare to Other Types of Pastels?
Sennelier Oil Pastel Set 24 Assorted Portrait
$118.80
Sennelier Oil Pastels
$5.31
Sennelier Oil Pastel Set 24 Still Life
$118.76
Oil pastels differ from soft and hard pastels in both composition and handling. Containing a non-drying oil and wax binder, they behave more like a crayon and never fully dry, giving them a creamy texture that’s perfect for blending and layering. Oil pastels work on a wide variety of surfaces, including paper, wood, and canvas, without the need for a primer. Unlike soft pastels, they don’t produce dust, making them a cleaner alternative. They’re excellent for impasto techniques, rich colour application, and even mixed-media layering with solvents or sgraffito. Because of their bold texture and long working time, oil pastels are often used for energetic, painterly effects. Whether used alone or alongside other media, oil pastels provide a unique combination of vibrancy, durability, and tactile expression.
What Soft Pastel Ranges Are Available at The Sydney Art Store?
The Sydney Art Store carries an extensive collection of soft pastels from globally respected manufacturers known for consistency and brilliance. Brands like Sennelier, Unison Colour, and Rembrandt offer creamy textures and strong pigmentation ideal for detailed portraits, landscapes, and atmospheric work. Each pastel set or individual stick is curated to help you achieve smooth blending, strong colour transitions, and layering flexibility. We also stock pastel pencils for fine detail, making it easy to expand your range while staying within the same tonal family. Whether you're building your own palette or selecting from themed sets, The Sydney Art Store provides a spectrum of professional-quality options to meet your artistic needs. For those focused on lightfastness, vibrancy, and application ease, these soft pastel collections offer a premium creative experience.
