Oil Pastels

Discover a whole new world of Oil Pastels with ArtStore Online.

Browse through our extensive range of Oil Pastels. Whether you are an avid painter, illustrator or a complete beginner, we will strive to help you with whatever you're after!

At ArtStore Online, we strive to bring you the best Oil Pastel brands available, and have a wide range of art & craft supplies from trusted and respected brands from around the world, including Sennelier and more!

What are oil pastels?

Oil pastels are a type of coloured art medium made of pigment mixed with a non-drying oil and wax binder. They have a creamy texture and can be used for both detailed or broad strokes, blending easily on paper or canvas surfaces. Unlike other types of pastels, they do not require the use of fixatives to set the colour. 

Why are oil pastels important?

Oil pastels offer a unique way for artists to express themselves and add depth, texture, and richness to their work. They can be used alone or in combination with other mediums, allowing for endless experimentation and creativity. Overall, oil pastels provide a fun and accessible option for artists to explore and enhance their artistic practice.

What are the drawbacks of oil pastels?

One drawback of oil pastels is that they can smudge easily when touched or pressed too heavily, making them less suitable for intricate details.

They also have a tendency to become sticky and clump together, especially when left uncovered for extended periods of time. Additionally, the colours can fade over time if not properly protected or preserved with a final varnish or fixative.

Finally, some artists may prefer the slightly harder texture and more blend able colours of traditional soft pastels. 

However, with proper care and technique, these drawbacks can be minimised and the benefits of using oil pastels can shine through in the final artwork.

What are some tips for using oil pastels?

1. Use a quality paper or canvas surface to prevent the colours from bleeding through or becoming too saturated.
2. Build up layers gradually to allow for blending and shading.
3. Use a separate sheet of paper or palette knife for blending colours together instead of directly on the surface.
4. Use a final varnish or fixative to protect and preserve the colours in the finished artwork.
5. Experiment with different techniques, such as using a solvent or alcohol to create interesting textures and effects.
6. Have fun and let your creativity flow!

What are some things to avoid while using oil pastels?

1. Avoid using too much pressure, which can cause the colours to smudge or become sticky.
2. Avoid leaving the oil pastels uncovered for extended periods of time, as this can cause them to harden or clump together.
3. Avoid leaving the finished artwork unprotected, as this can cause the colours to fade over time.
4. Avoid neglecting proper care and maintenance, as this can impact the overall outcome of the artwork. Take the time to properly store and protect your oil pastels to ensure they last for future use.

How long does it take oil pastels to dry?

Oil pastels do not technically "dry" like traditional wet media, but rather set and harden over time. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the thickness of the application and environmental factors such as humidity. 

What is the difference between oil pastels and soft pastels?

Soft pastels, also known as traditional or chalk pastels, are made of pure pigment mixed with a binder and have a dry, powdery texture. Oil pastels, on the other hand, have a creamier texture and do not require fixatives. Additionally, soft pastels are typically used for more delicate artwork, while oil pastels are better suited for bolder, more impressionistic styles.

What is the difference between oil pastels and crayons?

Crayons are made of pigment mixed with a wax binder and have a harder, firmer texture. Oil pastels, on the other hand, can be used on a variety of surfaces and have more versatility in terms of blending and layering. Additionally, crayons typically have a limited colour range compared to oil pastels.

Is there a difference between soft pastels and chalk pastels?

While both types of pastels are made with a pigment and binder mixture, soft pastels have a dry, powdery texture while chalk pastels have a harder texture closer to that of a crayon. Chalk pastels also tend to have less pigment and are not as vibrant in colour. However, both can be used for similar techniques and styles of artwork. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference.

What art supplies will I need when using oil pastels?

In addition to the oil pastels themselves, some necessary supplies may include paper or other surfaces to use as a canvas, blending tools such as paper stumps or cotton swabs, solvent or alcohol for creating textures, and a final varnish or fixative. It is also important to have proper storage for the pastels to keep them in good condition. Optional supplies may include pencils for sketching, erasers, and other traditional wet media such as acrylic or watercolour paints.