Imagine a lazy afternoon on a sunny Sunday, with sunlight streaming through the window and a palette filled with pastels, ready to be transformed into beautiful art. There’s a calming quality to pastel painting. The way the gentle shades glide across paper is incredibly soothing. Click for source!

Pastels for artists are like candy–bright and appealing, but also oh so satisfying to use. No matter if you are an established artist or a beginner, pastels can be a rewarding and accessible experience. The pastels are very forgiving. You may blend them with your finger, smudge the transitions to make them soft, or even layer them.

Let’s first talk about the tools. Grab some quality pastels – soft ones if your heart is set on velvety texture and hard ones for fine detail. You should also not skimp out on your paper. Textured papers hold the pigment better and will add more character to any work. It’s the canvas for your work.

Let’s look at some of the different techniques. You can also blend with your fingers. The best part is that it’s messy! It allows you to feel every stroke of your artwork. You can also use blending sticks to achieve the same effect but with more control.

Have you tried layering yet? Starting with a lighter color, gradually increase the intensity. This technique enhances the depth and dimension of your artwork. Imagine painting an orange and yellow sunset, and then adding darker purples and reds to the top. Each layer tells its own story.

Let’s discuss the topic of stories. What are your goals? A serene landscape? A bustling urban landscape? Perhaps something abstract to express your soul? Pastels can be used for anything.

Bob Ross – Do you still remember him? Remember Bob Ross? You don’t need to be perfect; embrace your imperfections. They will often produce unexpected beauty.

You have children or grandchildren with you? Get them some pastels. Enjoy the smiles on their faces as they create with you. Not only is it about making art, but also about sharing moments with your children and creating memories.

Feeling stuck or lacking inspiration? Step outside! Nature is a great source of inspiration. Delicate petals, leaves that play with light and the delicate colors of flowers are all begging to captured in pastel.

Did I mention fixatives already? These are vital for the preservation of your work. But use them sparingly. To much will dull the vivid colors we so love. Most of the time, a small amount sprayed from afar will do without affecting brilliance.

Shadows are important, they add depth and drama. Create realism by replicating the dance between light, dark and objects that you see around you.

In essence, (whoops! The pastel painter isn’t only interested in creating beautiful pictures. Each stroke reflects our thoughts and feelings. Even our dreams are reflected on paper by these soft hues.

Grab some pastels, and lose yourself in the magic of their colors today!