Introduction
Are you an artist looking for the perfect pastel pencil to add a stunning layer of soft, blended color to your canvases? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Drawing with pastels allows for a color-rich and vibrant look; it’s often used by professional artists and already has a significant following among beginner-level sketching enthusiasts. Whether your style is inspired by fantasy drawings or abstract art, understanding what makes up good-quality pastel pencils can guarantee that you get as precise as possible results.
But, with so many options flooding the market, it can take time to choose the best one that fulfills your ideal requirements. You may be in confusion wondering about below questions:
1. Which pastel pencil is good?
2. What are its benefits or disadvantages?
3. What to look for while buying a pastel pencil?
That’s why we’re here to help. We’ll explore the best ones on the market so that you can find the perfect one for your beautiful sketches. Whether you are just starting or have been using them for decades, we will show you exactly how these art supplies can be used to bring life and beauty into your drawings. So get ready – it’s time to explore what pastels can do!
1. Ticonderoga® Pastel Pencils, Assorted Colors – Pack of 10
9.8
Satisfactory with limitations
The Ticonderoga Pastel Pencils, 2 Soft, Assorted Colors, Pack Of 10 Pencils offer vibrant, neon colors and are pre-sharpened for immediate use. However, they have a slightly higher price compared to other pencils and have limited color options in the pack.
Product Highlights
- Vibrant, neon colors
- Durable wood construction
- Pre-sharpened for immediate use
Limitations
- Slightly higher price compared to other pencils
- Limited color options in the pack
Ticonderoga® Pastel Pencils, 2 Soft, Assorted Colors, Pack Of 10 Pencils are the top choice for teachers and students alike. These pencils are made from durable wood and have a graphite core, ensuring they will last through many uses. The pre-sharpened pencils come in a variety of beautiful pastel colors that are sure to inspire creativity. With the added convenience of latex-free erasers, mistakes can be easily corrected without smudging. These pencils are highly recommended by customers for their quality and longevity, making them a worthwhile investment for any artist or student.
Vibrant Color Selection
- Latex-free eraser
- Durable wood construction
- Graphite core
- Pre-sharpened for immediate use
2. Faber-Castel Pitt Pastell Pencil Set – 60 Count
9.6
Overall Impressive
The Faber-Castel Pitt Pastell Colouring Pencil Set of 60 offers a high level of pigment and is wax and oil free, making it perfect for fine details in pastels. It is easily smudged for seamless color transitions. However, some reviewers mentioned that it has a limited range of subtle shades and can be expensive.
Product Benefits
- High level of pigment
- Wax and oil free
- Suited for fine details in pastels
- Easily smudged for color transitions
Weaknesses
- Limited range of subtle shades
- Expensive
The Faber-Castel Pitt Pastell Colouring Pencil Set of 60 is a high-quality set of pastel pencils that are perfect for fine details in pastel drawings. These pencils contain a high level of pigment and are wax and oil free, allowing for easy smudging to create fine color transitions. The set comes in a metal tin and includes sixty assorted colors. The pencils lay down thin but vivid colors and have excellent body, providing enough tooth to properly lay down the colors. Customers have praised these pencils for their smoothness, good colors, fine detail capabilities, and clean blending. While they may be a bit expensive, they are well worth the investment, according to an art teacher’s recommendation.
Key Features
- High level of pigment
- Wax and oil free
- Suited for fine details in pastels
- Easily smudged for color transitions
- Metal tin set of 60
3. Faber-Castel Pitt Pastel Pencils
9.6
Conclusion: Recommended choice
The Faber-Castel FC112124 Pitt Pastel Pencils in A Metal Tin (24 Pack), Assorted is a high-quality product that is perfect for artists looking to create fine and elaborate details. The vibrant colors and easy blending make it a great choice, although there have been some reports of the tin arriving damaged during shipping.
Key Features
- Quality product
- Good for making fine lines and drawing with pastels
- Vibrant colors and easy to blend
- Metal tin keeps pencils organized and protected
Limitations
- Tin may arrive damaged during shipping
- Some customers have experienced issues with damaged art supplies when purchasing from Amazon
The Faber-Castel FC112124 Pitt Pastel Pencils in A Metal Tin (24 Pack), Assorted is a supreme quality set of pastel pencils perfect for artists who require fine and elaborate details in their artwork. These pencils contain a high level of pigment and are wax and oil-free, allowing for easy smudging and creating fine color transitions. The pencils come in a metal tin, ensuring they are well-protected and organized. With excellent light resistance and color brilliance, these pastel pencils retain their vividness of color with minimal fixing required. Users have praised the good colors, blendability, and ability to make fine lines with these pencils. However, some customers have noted that the tin may arrive damaged. Overall, this is a quality product that is highly recommended for artists looking to create stunning works of art.
Versatile and Vibrant Pastel Pencils
- 24 pastel pencils in a metal tin
- Supreme quality PITT pastel artists’ pencils
- Excellent light resistance and color brilliance
- Ideal for fine and elaborate details
4. STABILO CarbOthello Pastel Pencil – Tin of 24 Colors
9.3
Excellent Chalk Pencils
The Chalk-Pastel Pencil – STABILO CarbOthello – ARTY+ – Tin of 24 – Assorted Colors offers a charcoal-like feel with highly pigmented colors for great results on dark or toned papers. While it may be messy to use and create dust, it is comfortable to use, applies easily, and is recommended by others, making it a good choice for those trying chalk pencils for the first time. It is also praised for its variety of nice colors and its suitability for grayscale coloring.
Vibrant and Versatile Colors
- Comfortable to use
- Variety of nice colors
- Applies easily
- Good choice for trying chalk pencils for the first time
- Recommended by others
- Fun to work with
- Good for grayscale coloring
Product Limitations
- Messy to use
- Creates dust
The Chalk-Pastel Pencil – STABILO CarbOthello – ARTY+ – Tin of 24 – Assorted Colors is a premium set of chalk-pastel pencils that is ideal for art students, artists, and creative individuals of all ages. The pencils have a charcoal-like feel and are highly pigmented, allowing for vibrant and dramatic results, especially on dark backgrounds and delicate papers. The colors are blendable when dry and can be smudged with either fingertips or a blending stump to create a variety of artistic effects. The set comes in a convenient hinged tin box and includes 24 assorted colors, offering a wide range of shades for portraits, landscapes, animals, and line drawings. The finished artwork can be treated with a fixative for superior results.
Versatile and Vibrant Pastel Pencils
- Charcoal-like feel
- Highly pigmented colors
- 4.4 mm diameter lead
- Great results on dark or toned papers or surfaces
- Finished artwork can be treated with a fixative
5. GETHPEN Pastel Chalk Colored Pencils, Set of 24 Colors
8.9
Highly recommended
The GETHPEN Pastel Chalk Colored Pencils, Set of 24 Colors, is highly recommended for adult artists due to its easy sharpening, durability, smooth application, and versatility for different art techniques.
Vibrant Color Selection
- Easy to sharpen
- Durable – tips do not break easily
- Smooth application on paper
- Versatile for various art techniques
The GETHPEN Pastel Chalk Colored Pencils are a set of 24 vibrant and richly pigmented color charcoal pencils. Designed for both advanced artists and beginners, these pencils are perfect for drawing, sketching, and illustrating realistic images. With their smooth glide and compatibility with black sketch pads, they offer effortless application and excellent results. Additionally, these pencils are easy to sharpen with a manual pencil sharpener and are sturdy enough to withstand pressure without breaking the tips. Perfect for artists of all levels, these pencils provide a versatile and enjoyable art experience.
Vibrant and Versatile Coloring Tools
- Set of 24 colors
- Pastel colored pencils
- Charcoal pencils for drawing, sketching, coloring, and shading
- Art supplies for adults artists
6. KALOUR Pro Pastel Chalk Pencils, Set of 50 Colors
8.7
Satisfactory and versatile
The KALOUR Pro Pastel Chalk Colored Pencils are a high-quality set of 50 pencils that are perfect for shading and coloring. With a nice color range and a functional set, these pencils are suitable for both beginning and advanced artists. However, users should be aware that the pastel chalk can be messy and some pencils may feel scratchy on certain types of paper.
Versatile and Vibrant Selection
- Nice color
- Firm without being very hard
- Functional set of pastel pencils
- Includes a swatch chart
- Comes in a nice tin with a hinged lid
Limitations
- Pastel chalk can be messy
- Some pencils may feel scratchy on certain types of paper
The KALOUR Pro Pastel Chalk Colored Pencils is a set of 50 professional artist quality pastel colored pencils. Perfect for beginners to advanced artists, these pencils are ideal for drawing, sketching, and illustrating realistic portrait art. The set comes in a gift metal tin box and includes a DIY color chart for easy reference. The pencils are both named and numbered, and the tin has a hinged lid for convenient storage. The pastels have a nice color and are firm without being too hard. They can be used on various types of paper and can be fixed with a matte fixative spray to prevent smearing. Overall, this set offers a functional and high-quality option for artists looking to explore pastel chalk in pencil form.
Versatile and Vibrant Art Tools
- Set of 50 pro pastel chalk colored pencils
- Comes in a gift metal tin box
- Ideal for drawing, sketching, and illustrating realistic portrait art
- High level of pastel quality
- Suitable for both beginning and advanced artists
- Perfect for shading and coloring
Comparing Pastel Pencil Options
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Pastel Pencils
- Begin by selecting a set of pastel pencils suitable for beginners. It is recommended to choose a set with a variety of colors and hardness levels
- Start by preparing the surface on which you will be working. It is advisable to use a paper or board specifically designed for pastel work, as it provides the necessary tooth to hold the pigments
- Begin by lightly sketching the desired subject on the surface with a graphite pencil. This will serve as a guideline for your pastel work
- Start layering the colors gradually, using light pressure initially and building up the intensity as needed. Pastel pencils allow for precise application, so take advantage of their versatility to add detail and texture to your artwork
- Experiment with blending techniques such as smudging or using a blending stump to create smooth transitions between colors
- Remember to work from light to dark, as pastel pencils are transparent and the underlying layers will show through. Starting with lighter colors will help create depth and dimension in your artwork
- Take time to practice and experiment with different techniques to develop your own style and understanding of how to use pastel pencils effectively
- Finally, ensure that your finished artwork is properly protected by using a fixative spray to prevent smudging and preserve the vibrant colors of your pastel pencil work
Frequently Asked Questions about Pastel Pencils
Can pastel pencils be used for different subjects, such as landscapes, portraits, or still life?
Yes, pastel pencils can be used for various subjects including landscapes, portraits, and still life. Pastel pencils are versatile art tools that allow artists to achieve a wide range of effects and details. The soft and blendable nature of pastels makes them suitable for creating vibrant landscapes, capturing the intricate details in portraits, and adding texture and depth to still life compositions. Artists can layer, blend, and smudge pastel pencils to achieve different textures, tones, and effects, making them a versatile choice for different subjects in the realm of art.
How do you choose the right pastel pencil set for your artistic needs?
When choosing the right pastel pencil set for artistic needs, several factors should be considered. First, determine the level of expertise – whether the artist is a beginner, intermediate, or advanced. Beginner sets usually contain a limited range of colors and are more affordable, while advanced sets offer a wider spectrum of colors and higher quality pigments.
Consider the types of projects the artist intends to work on. If they focus on detailed drawings or portraits, a set with a wide range of skin tones and earthy shades would be suitable. Landscape artists may opt for sets that include vibrant greens, blues, and earth tones. It is also essential to check the lightfastness of the pencils to ensure the longevity of the artwork.
Another crucial factor is the artist’s personal preferences, such as the hardness of the pastel. Soft pastel pencils offer a smooth and creamy texture, ideal for blending and creating vibrant colors. On the other hand, hard pastel pencils provide more control and precision for detailed work. Artists may consider purchasing a set with a mix of both to have versatility in their artwork.
Additionally, the price range is an important consideration. Pastel pencil sets vary in cost depending on the brand, quality, and number of pencils included. Artists should establish a budget and seek sets that offer the best quality within their price range.
Lastly, it is advisable to read reviews and seek recommendations from fellow artists or professionals to gain insights into the quality and performance of different pastel pencil sets. By considering these factors, artists can make an informed decision when selecting the right pastel pencil set for their artistic needs.
What are the various techniques that can be achieved with pastel pencils?
Pastel pencils offer a range of techniques that can be achieved in artwork. They allow for detailed and precise work, making them popular among artists. Some of the techniques that can be achieved with pastel pencils include layering, blending, hatching, cross-hatching, stippling, and smudging. Layering involves building up layers of color to create depth and dimension in the artwork. Blending can be done using a blending stump or finger to create smooth transitions between colors. Hatching and cross-hatching involve creating parallel or crisscross lines to add texture and shading. Stippling involves creating small dots or marks to create texture or shading. Smudging can be done with a blending stump or finger to create a soft, blended effect. These techniques provide artists with a wide range of options for expressing their creativity and achieving various effects in their pastel pencil artwork.
Are pastel pencils suitable for creating detailed and realistic drawings?
Yes, pastel pencils are suitable for creating detailed and realistic drawings. Pastel pencils are a medium that combines the qualities of both pastels and colored pencils, allowing artists to achieve fine details and intricacies in their artwork. The pencils are made using compressed pastel pigment, which provides rich and vibrant colors. Additionally, pastel pencils have a harder texture compared to traditional soft pastels, allowing for more control and precision when working on intricate areas. Artists can layer and blend the colors, creating depth and realism in their drawings. With skilled techniques and careful handling, pastel pencils can produce highly detailed and realistic artwork.
What are the key characteristics and features of pastel pencils?
Pastel pencils are a type of art medium that combine the characteristics of both pastels and colored pencils. They are made by blending high-quality pigments with a small amount of binder, resulting in a soft, powdery texture similar to traditional pastels. These pencils have a number of key characteristics and features that make them unique and popular among artists.
Firstly, pastel pencils offer a high level of control and precision compared to traditional pastels. They have a firm yet creamy texture, allowing artists to create fine lines, intricate details, and precise shading. This makes them particularly suitable for detailed drawings, portraits, and other realistic artwork.
Secondly, pastel pencils are highly versatile and can be used on various surfaces, including paper, board, and even textured surfaces. They can be easily blended using a variety of techniques such as finger blending, blending stumps, or brushes, enabling artists to achieve smooth transitions and subtle gradations of color.
Another important characteristic of pastel pencils is their wide range of colors. They are available in a vast array of hues, tones, and shades, allowing artists to create vibrant and realistic artworks. Furthermore, pastel pencils can be easily layered and mixed together to achieve a wide spectrum of colors and achieve desired effects.
Additionally, pastel pencils are relatively clean and convenient to use compared to traditional pastels. They do not produce as much dust or smudging, making them a preferred choice for artists who prefer a neater working environment. Pastel pencils can also be easily sharpened to a fine point using a regular pencil sharpener, which further enhances their control and precision.
In summary, the key characteristics and features of pastel pencils include their ability to provide control and precision, versatility, a wide range of colors, and convenience. These attributes make pastel pencils a popular choice among artists who seek to create detailed, vibrant, and realistic artwork in a clean and controlled manner.