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Best Oil Pastel Techniques: A Guide on How to Use Oil Pastels

Updated: Mar 8, 2023

Oil pastel painting is a rewarding activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Although it may take some practice to create a great art piece, using oil pastels is both fun and easy. Additionally, oil pastels are affordable, portable, and simple to use and clean. So, don't give up on your first try and with some perseverance, you'll be able to produce stunning artwork with vivid colours and texture.



What are Oil Pastels?

"Understanding Oil Pastels and Other Drawing Mediums: Types and Differences"

Oil pastels are a type of drawing medium that come in the form of crayons or sticks. They consist of pigments combined with a binder made of waxes and mineral oils, resulting in a soft and slightly greasy stick that does not dry. While similar to other drawing mediums like crayons and pastel sticks, there are differences between them. These include soft pastels (or pastel sticks), hard pastels, pencil pastels, and pan pastels.


 

The Advantages of Oil Pastel Painting

Compared to oil painting, oil pastel painting is a quick and easy process that requires minimal preparation and only a few basic materials such as paper and oil pastels themselves. Unlike oil painting, there's no need for brushes, solvents, or other additional items. This makes oil pastels an ideal medium for traveling artists or anyone looking for a convenient and mess-free art-making experience. In addition, oil pastels are more affordable than many other art mediums, making them accessible to artists on a budget. There are several other advantages to using oil pastels, which we will explore below.


Oil pastels are versatile drawing materials that can be used on a range of surfaces such as canvas, paper, and wood.


These pastels lend themselves well to a variety of techniques, including blending, scratching off, building up, and creating the illusion of wet paint or a dry look.


One of the best things about oil pastels is that they can be used immediately without any additional preparation, and they are very user-friendly. This makes them an excellent choice for artists of all skill levels looking to experiment with different materials and techniques.


 

Tips for Buying Oil Pastels: A Guide for Beginners

If you're a beginner looking to purchase oil pastels, it's important to keep a few things in mind. The following tips can help you choose the right oil pastels for your needs:

  1. Look for quality brands: Choose well-known and reputable brands that offer a wide range of colours and pigments.

  2. Consider the grade: Oil pastels are available in student-grade and artist-grade. While student-grade pastels are more affordable, artist-grade pastels offer better quality and a wider range of colours.

  3. Check the permanence rating: Oil pastels with a higher permanence rating will last longer and maintain their colour over time.

  4. Look for a range of colours: Choose oil pastels with a range of colors to ensure versatility and flexibility in your artwork.

  5. Consider the texture: Different oil pastels have varying textures, so consider the type of surface you'll be working on and choose pastels accordingly.

By following these guidelines, you can find the perfect oil pastels for your artwork and create beautiful pieces that showcase your creativity.


 

Choosing Between Single Oil Pastels and Sets: Pros and Cons

When purchasing oil pastels, you'll need to decide between single oil pastels and oil pastel sets. Here are some pros and cons of each option to help you make the right choice:


Single Oil Pastels:

Pros:

  • More affordable if you only need a few colours.

  • Allows you to test different brands and grades before investing in a full set.

  • Can be easier to replace individual colours as needed.

Cons:

  • Limited range of colours available.

  • May not be cost-effective if you need many colours.

Oil Pastel Sets:

Pros:

  • Offer a wider range of colours and shades to choose from.

  • Often come in artist-grade quality, offering better pigments and permanence rating.

  • Usually packaged in a convenient case, making them easier to organize and store.

Cons:

  • More expensive than buying individual pastels.

  • May include colours you do not need or will not use.

Ultimately, the choice between single oil pastels and sets comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you are a beginner or only need a few colors, single pastels may be the better choice. However, if you are a professional artist or require a wider range of colors, an oil pastel set is likely the better option.



Choosing the Right Texture for Your Oil Pastels

Texture is an important consideration when purchasing oil pastels, as it affects how the pastels perform and how your artwork will look. Soft and creamy oil pastels are similar in texture to lipstick, while harder pastels are more rigid. Here are some tips to help you choose the right texture for your needs:


Soft Oil Pastels:

  • Ideal for blending and creating a smooth, buttery texture.

  • Great for creating bold strokes and large areas of color.

  • Can be difficult to create fine details and precise lines.

Hard Oil Pastels:

  • Better for creating fine details and precise lines.

  • Can produce a more textured finish.

  • May be difficult to blend and require more pressure to use.

When choosing the texture of your oil pastels, consider the type of artwork you plan on creating. If you're looking to create bold, colorful pieces with lots of blending, soft oil pastels may be the way to go. If you're interested in creating detailed drawings or textured pieces, hard pastels may be a better choice. Understanding the different textures available and how they affect your artwork can help you make an informed decision when purchasing oil pastels.


 

Oil Pastel Costs

If you are a budget-conscious artist looking for artist-grade pastels, consider searching for specials or discounts on products. It may be worth trying out a single oil pastel first before committing to an expensive set. Keep in mind that buying the most expensive oil pastel products will not automatically make you a better artist. It is recommended to buy the best quality you can afford, but starting with an affordable product that still produces good results is a good option. Avoid purchasing cheap oil pastels as they do not blend well and may be comparable to kids’ crayons. As a professional artist, you likely already know what works best for you.


 

Surfaces and Oil Pastel Painting

When it comes to oil pastel painting, the surface you choose can greatly affect the outcome of your work. While oil pastels can be used on a variety of surfaces such as canvas, paper, and wood, each surface offers a unique texture and finish. For instance, using oil pastels on canvas can produce a more painterly effect, whereas using them on paper allows for more detailed and delicate work. Additionally, using a prepared surface, such as a textured pastel paper, can enhance the vibrancy and depth of your colors. Therefore, it is important to experiment with different surfaces to determine which best suits your artistic vision and style.


 

How to Color With Oil Pastels

Just like any other form of art, mastering the use of oil pastels requires practice and experimentation with various techniques. Understanding how to color and blend with oil pastels is crucial for creating realistic drawings. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to learn these techniques, and a range of tools you can use to blend colors. Some examples include:

  • Your fingers

  • Tortillions or stumps (tightly wound paper in the shape of a pencil)

  • Paintbrushes

  • A chamois or soft leather piece

  • Pliable eraser

  • Cotton tips

  • Fabric

  • Paper towels


 

Oil Pastel Techniques

Although there are many techniques you can use with oil pastels, we will cover a few of the fundamental ones. If you're new to oil pastels, it's a good idea to start by drawing a still life object and experimenting with different colors and techniques. To help guide your drawing, lightly sketch the outline with a pencil. This can help you avoid mistakes and make the drawing process smoother.


Overlaying

One oil pastel technique is overlaying, which involves layering different colors to achieve various hues. Start by applying a first layer of pastel using a primary color and then follow up with additional layers using different colors. To blend the colors, you can use heavy or light pressure blending techniques for different effects. It's a good idea to experiment with layering and blending to achieve the desired result.


Scumbling

To create a textured look, try this simple technique: make controlled scribble marks across the surface using at least two different colors (though more can be used). Start by drawing scribble marks with your first color, then repeat the process with your second color. Overlap the colors at different points to achieve the desired texture. Repeat until you've achieved the texture you want.To create a textured look, try this simple technique: make controlled scribble marks across the surface using at least two different colors (though more can be used). Start by drawing scribble marks with your first color, then repeat the process with your second color. Overlap the colors at different points to achieve the desired texture. Repeat until you've achieved the texture you want.


Blending

Blending oil pastel colors is easy and there are two common methods you can use:

  • Pre-blending method: You can blend oil pastels by pre-blending them on a palette before applying them to the paper or canvas. Simply apply different colours of oil pastels onto a palette, and then use a blending tool such as a blending stump or your finger to mix the colours together until you achieve the desired shade.

  • Direct blending method: Alternatively, you can blend oil pastels directly on the paper or canvas. First, apply the colors next to each other on the surface, and then use a brush, cotton swab, or your finger dipped in a small amount of oil to blend the colors together. Be sure to overlap the colors slightly as you blend to create a smooth transition between the shades. Repeat this process until you achieve the desired blend of colours.

Masking

If you're looking for an easy way to create unique designs with oil pastels, try using masking tape. Start by taping the areas you don't want to color in, leaving only the desired design area exposed. Next, use the oil pastels to color in the spaces between the tape. Once you're done, carefully remove the tape to reveal your design with crisp lines and angles. This simple technique can be used to create a variety of designs and is perfect for beginners.


 

Here are some tips and tricks on how to use pastels:

If you're new to using oil pastels, it's a good idea to check out some tutorials to learn tips, tricks, and basic techniques for creating great artwork. To help you on your artistic journey, we've gathered some tips on how to use oil pastels:

  • The hardness of oil pastels can vary between brands, so experiment with different brands to achieve different effects.

  • The temperature can affect the hardness of oil pastels, with warmer temperatures making them softer and cooler temperatures making them firmer.

  • Don't get discouraged if you don't achieve the desired results right away; developing your skills takes time and experimentation.

  • Be creative and experiment with using oil pastels on different surfaces.

  • Pre-blend oil pastels to see the exact color before applying them to your artwork.

  • Use a stencil for precise shapes.

  • Avoid resting your hand or palm on the paper to prevent smudging in different areas. You can also place a folded piece of paper between your hand and the already colored areas.

  • Clean oil pastel tips by rubbing them on a scrap piece of paper between colors.

  • Protect your oil pastel artwork from smudging by placing it in plastic file folder sheets or a folder.

  • Keep paper towels or cloth nearby to wipe your hands clean.

  • When framing, avoid pressing the paper against the glass to prevent smudging. Leave a space between the paper and the glass.


 

Finishing Off and Cleaning Up

Oil pastels are a popular choice among artists due to their ease of use, but they can smudge easily. To prevent smudging, it is important to take proper care of your artwork after it is complete.

One way to protect your oil pastel art is to frame it behind glass. Varnishing is not recommended because pastels contain oils and waxes that do not work well with varnish. Oil pastel fixatives are available, but they can potentially alter the colors, so it is best to test them out first.

It is also important to store and display your artwork in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight or high temperatures. Exposure to heat can cause the pastels to bleed and potentially ruin your artwork.

By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your oil pastel artwork remains vibrant and intact for years to come.


 

Oil Pastel - FAQs


Is a Sealant Necessary for My Oil Pastel Painting?

Oil pastel paintings don't necessarily require a sealant, but using one can help to protect the surface of the painting and keep the colours looking vibrant over time. A sealant can help to prevent smudging, dust accumulation, and fading caused by exposure to light.

However, it's important to choose a sealant that is specifically formulated for use with oil pastels. Regular spray fixatives or varnishes may not be suitable, as they can cause the oil pastels to run or discolor over time. Look for a product that is labeled as an oil pastel fixative or varnish, and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

If you choose not to use a sealant, it's important to take extra care when handling and displaying your oil pastel painting to prevent smudging or damage to the surface. Framing the artwork behind glass is a good way to protect it from dust and other environmental factors.


Best Surfaces for Oil Pastels?

Yes, it's important to consider the surface you're working on when using oil pastels. While you can experiment with various surfaces, some artists prefer to use pastel paper or canvas specifically designed for use with pastels. It's also a good idea to prime certain surfaces before using oil pastels to create a better grip for the pastels and prevent them from smudging or sliding around. Ultimately, the choice of surface and whether or not to prime it depends on the individual artist and their preferred techniques and desired effects.


Colours Applications While Blending?

To achieve a smooth transition between colours when using oil pastels, it is recommended to apply lighter colours first followed by darker colours. This technique helps to create a seamless blend of colours. However, when using the sgraffito technique, where the top layer of colour is scraped off to reveal the layer beneath, it's best to apply the darker colour last. By doing so, the lighter colours will come through when you scrape the top layer, creating a design or shape.




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1 Comment


Guest
Mar 18, 2023

Very nice information on Oil Pastel Art. It's really helpful.

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