What Are Oil Pastels?
Oil pastels are made from pigments, non-drying oil and wax binder, which creates a soft oily composition that's easy to blend and smear. They are available in a vivid range of colours and can be used on a wide range of surfaces, making them a good fit for beginners. Oil Pastels can also be used either dry for drawing or mixed with a little turpentine for wet painting - making them very versatile.
Pros and cons of using Oil Pastels
Beginners may find oil pastels difficult to work with at first, and it's worth spending some time understanding their composition and how different blending techniques work. But unlike regular crayons they don't need a heavy hand and a little goes a long way.
Oil pastels are one of the most exciting and versatile mediums to work with. They can be used on paper, canvas, board, and even wood or glass if properly primed.
Drawing Ideas For Beginners
If you're using oil pastels for the first time and still developing your skill, it’s a good idea to start with something less complicated at first. Try a simple still life - like an apple or a single rose.
TIPS
Allow yourself some time to practice and make mistakes. Don't be discouraged by your first attempts - trial and error are part of the process. Get to know the medium and don't be afraid to stop and start again.
When it comes to choosing a surface for your first pastel drawing, oil paper is a great choice. The pastels will stick really well and its cheaper and easier to replace than canvas or board if you end up making lots of mistakes.
Final Tip - Find somewhere you can draw that has good lighting
