Beginners guide to Oil Pastels: Getting started with Pastels

What are Oil Pastels?

Oil pastels are vibrant and creamy sticks of colours that offer vibrant and the bold results. They are glidesmoothly on paper, are easy to blend and easy to mix. They are easy to use and do not require any brushes or water. 

Ideal for beginners or recreational artists - you can create simple drawings or detailed landscapes or abstract art effortlessly with oil pastels.

You need only two items to get started with oil pastels: an oil pastel set and pastel paper pad or a sketchbook. It is always nice to have some pencils to help with the outlines but not necessary.

Handy hint: If you can’t find a pastel pad, go for a sketch book with thick paper or card paper.

​​​​​​​

Oil pastels are one of the most intuitive and user-friendly art materials to help you draw and colour. Here are some basic techniques you can explore to get comfortable with oil pastels:

  1. Basic Strokes: Make basic strokes by applying different level of pressure to see the different results.
  2. Blend colours: Mix two colours on paper or try smudging with your fingers to see what how they come together
  3. Layering colours: Apply one colour and then apply another colour on top to learn and experiment with a new technique
  4. Explore basic still life drawings: Still life drawings are an excellent starting point for beginners – you can do it at your own pace. Think vase of flowers, bowl of fruits or any everyday household items. (Handy Hint: Start by drawing the outline with a light pencil and then fill it in with pastel)
  5. Try Abstract Art: When in doubt, try abstract art. Swirls, waves, bold strokes or geometric patterns – there are no rules. Enjoy the process and add your colours.
​​​​​​​
  • Beginner friendly: Easy to do and enjoyable, you can start colouring with oil pastels with zero previous experience
  • Easy to start: All you need is a set of oil pastels and a sketchbook or a pastel pad.
  • Bold and vibrant colours: You can get fun and eye-catching results with the rich colours of oil pastels
  • Works on multiple surfaces: Paper, cardboard or even wood surface – you can colour everywhere.
  • Travel friendly and portable: Easy to carry and easy to use on the go.
​​​​​​​

We are here to experiment and enjoy the process. Don’t worry about the ‘perfect’ result.