Oil Pastel Materials & Supplies
It is advisable to possess a range of soft and hard/semi-hard pastels in a variety of hues, tints, and shades. For beginners, acquiring a pre-designed set of pastels is perhaps the most suitable option. Numerous companies offer sets specifically curated for landscape or portrait applications, which typically offer good value for money compared to individual colors. Opting for larger sets will provide a wider array of choices and necessitate less blending.
Soft Pastels
I would like to recommend that you consider purchasing a landscape set of high-quality pastels consisting of no fewer than 30 colors. These sets can be found from reputable companies such as Schminke, Art Spectrum, Holbein, Sennelier, Great American, or the Dick Blick house brand.
If your budget allows, I would advise opting for the larger sets. However, it is important to note that very large sets of pastels may not be as convenient for outdoor use due to their lack of portability.
I have specifically chosen these brands because they are all known for their artist quality and offer a good range of browns and greens, which are essential for landscape work. It is unnecessary to have an extensive selection of pastel blues unless you plan on painting water scenes. Additionally, the prices of these brands are comparable, with the Dick Blick house brand offering the best value.
If you are able to afford it, I also recommend purchasing a set of “extra darks” from Sennelier, Great American, or Terry Ludwig. These particular sets will add depth and dimension to your paintings.
Hard Pastels
Hard or semi-hard pastels are essential for the execution of finishing strokes and meticulous detailing. I would highly recommend acquiring a compact set of either 24 or 36 pastels, as they possess remarkable longevity and can endure for several years. Renowned brands such as CretaColor, Derwent, Holbein, Nupastel, Sargent, or Sennelier offer commendable options, with some sets specifically designed for landscape artwork. It is worth noting that these alternatives are considerably more cost-effective compared to their larger, softer pastel counterparts. Source these at the same Dick Blick page as above.
Pastel Paper/Boards
I have extensively experimented with various types of paper and have now developed a preference for either creating my own boards or utilizing specifically prepared cards/papers that possess a textured and coarse surface, along with a substantial weight. These coatings are designed to accommodate a significant amount of pastel application and allow for reworking without causing clogging or a slippery effect. The heavy weight of these materials also prevents any wrinkling or flapping when exposed to wind. I would recommend acquiring prepared papers/boards from any of the following reputable companies:
- Clairefontaine Pastelmat pad, consisting of 12 sheets in assorted colors, selection A, with dimensions of 9 x 12″ or larger.
- Sennelier La Carte pastel pad, comprising 12 sheets in assorted colors, with dimensions of 9 x 12″ or larger.
- Wallis Sanded Pastel Paper Pad, which happens to be my personal favorite, containing 8 sheets in Belgian Mist, with dimensions of 9 x 12″ or larger.
If budget is not a constraint, I would suggest considering the Richeson Gator Foam Sanded Boards, measuring 9 x 12″ and available in either terra cotta or sandstone, with a minimum quantity of 7.
Easel
In order to engage in painting, it is imperative that you possess a durable and portable easel. A wooden French-style field easel is recommended for this purpose, and can be easily procured from various sources. It is advisable to conduct a thorough search to obtain the best deal, as these easels are available at prices ranging from $50 to $150.
Miscellaneous
It will be necessary to acquire a piece of FomeCor, Gatorboard, or heavy chipboard that is a few inches larger in size than the pastel paper. This will serve as a secure surface for taping the paper.
- Masking tape measuring 3/4″ is required.
- Either the Viewcatcher1 or the Artwork Essentials pocket-sized viewfinder. Make your own with this template.
- Sandpaper or a premade sandpaper stick is needed for sharpening
- A knife or razor blade is also necessary for sharpening
- Gum eraser and a kneaded eraser
- Selection of blending stomps, ranging from small to large
- Paper towels and a large package of wet wipes
- A pencil, either HB or B
- A soft synthetic watercolor brush measuring 1 1/2″ or 2″ is needed for wash effects
- A large-mouth plastic water container, no larger than 1 pint
- A backpack or carryall is necessary to store all the items mentioned above.
- Not highly recommended in this YouTube video ↩︎