What are oil pastels?

Oil pastels are a painting and drawing medium that consists of pigment mixed with a non-drying oil and wax binder, formed into sticks. They are different from other types of pastels, which are typically made with a gum or methyl cellulose binder, and from wax crayons, which are made without oil. The texture of oil pastels is less powdery than gum pastels and offers bright, bold colors. They can be easily blended and are known for their creamy texture.Oil pastels were developed to provide a medium that was both affordable and capable of freeing up artistic expression. They are particularly loved by artists for their versatility and the creative freedom they offer. You can apply oil pastels to various surfaces, including paper, canvas, wood, and even sandpaper, making them suitable for a wide range of artistic projects.Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, oil pastels are a fantastic tool for exploring color and texture in your artwork.

How do I blend oil pastels effectively?

Blending oil pastels effectively can enhance your artwork by creating smooth transitions and rich textures. Here are some techniques to blend oil pastels:

1. Layering: Apply a thick layer of one color and then go over it with another color. Use your finger, a blending stump, or a cloth to blend the colors together.

2. Scumbling: This involves lightly layering one color over another using a broken or loose circular motion to create texture and depth.

3. Pointillism: Apply small dots of different colors close to each other. When viewed from a distance, the colors visually blend together.

4. Palette Knife: Mix colors on a separate palette before applying them to your artwork to ensure a consistent blend.

5. Solvents: You can use solvents like baby oil or odorless mineral spirits to thin the oil pastels and blend them more smoothly.

6. Heat: Gently heating the surface of the oil pastels can make them softer and easier to blend.

7. Tissue Paper: For a soft and subtle blend, you can use tissue paper to lightly dab and smudge the colors.

Remember to clean your tools frequently when switching colors to maintain the purity of the hues. Experiment with these techniques to find the one that works best for your artistic style.

What are good and affordable oil pastels?

Good and affordable oil pastels offer a balance between quality and cost, making them accessible for artists on a budget. Here are some options that have been recommended:

1. Van Gogh oil pastels: Van Gogh oil pastels are crafted using pure pigments, mineral oils, and wax binders. This combination results in a remarkably soft and smooth laydown without any dust

2. SAKURA Cray-Pas Expressionist Set: Known for being budget-friendly and suitable for artists who are just starting out with oil pastels.

3. Mungyo Gallery Soft Oil Pastels: These are often praised for their value, offering a good range of colors and a smooth application at a reasonable price.

These brands are recognized for their quality and are a great starting point for those new to oil pastels or looking for cost-effective options. Remember, the best oil pastel for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, so it might be worth trying out a few different brands to see which one you like the most.

How do you preserve oil pastels?

Fixating oil pastels is important to preserve your artwork and prevent smudging. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fixate oil pastels:

1. Prepare Your Artwork: Ensure your artwork is clean and free from dust. You can gently wipe the surface with a paper towel if necessary.

2. Apply Fixative Spray: Use a fixative spray designed for oil pastels, such as Sennelier D’Artigny Oil Pastel Fixative. Hold the spray about 12 inches away from the artwork and apply a light, even coat.

3. Let It Dry: Allow the fixative to dry completely. It may take several applications to fully fix the oil pastels, as they contain a non-drying oil binder.

4. Check for Color Shift: Some fixatives can alter the colors of your pastels, usually by darkening or dulling them.

5. Optional Varnish: If desired, you can apply an oil varnish over the fixed pastels to adjust the sheen and add an extra layer of protection.

Remember, oil pastels never fully dry because of their binder, so careful handling even after fixating is recommended. Also, always test the fixative on a small area or a separate piece to ensure it doesn’t affect your colors or textures adversely.