Oil pastels are a versatile, semi-dry medium made of pigment, oil, and wax, offering rich colors for drawing and painting. Learn exactly what they are used for, if they are easy to use for beginners, and answers to common concerns like toxicity, permanence, and comparisons to soft pastels or crayons.
In this comprehensive guide, artist Eric D. Greene shares his personal experience and proven techniques for blending oil pastels, covering essential methods like finger blending, using tortillions, and working with solvents. This article is designed for both beginners and experienced artists looking to create smooth, vibrant artwork with oil pastels.
I want to talk about why I love oil pastels, and what they do for me as an artist. I find oil pastels to be a vibrant and versatile medium, with unique properties that really captivated me as an artist. Unlike traditional soft pastels, oil pastels consist of a non-drying oil and wax binder, which…
Oil pastels and soft pastels are very different mediums. Oil pastels are made with wax and oil, giving them a creamy, crayon-like texture that doesn’t create dust. Soft pastels are made with a gum binder, resulting in a dry, chalky texture that is great for blending but can be messy. This article breaks down their differences, so you can decide which is best for your artistic style.
Choosing the right paper for oil pastels is key to achieving vibrant colors, smooth blending, and artwork that stands the test of time. Explore the top paper options trusted by artists in 2025, including essential tips on weight, texture, and durability to elevate your oil pastel creations.
With over 15 years of experience as an oil pastels artist, I’ve worked with every major brand in my oil pastels art. This comprehensive comparison guide draws on my professional artist insights, hands-on reviews, and trusted recommendations to help you choose the best oil pastels for your unique style and budget.
