The Best Pastel Paper for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide

When starting out with pastel art, choosing the right paper can make a significant difference in your creative journey. This guide offers a detailed look at the best pastel papers for beginners, along with some additional options for more advanced artists.

Introduction to Best Pastel Papers for Beginners

For beginners embarking on their pastel art journey, selecting the appropriate paper is crucial. This article reviews the top options, including specific brands and types tailored for pastel enthusiasts.

Types of Pastel Paper Suited for Beginners

Pastel Paper

Pastel paper is specifically designed to meet the demands of pastel art. It has a textured surface that allows for layering and precise application. Popular choices include Canson Mi-Teintes and Strathmore Pastel Paper. These papers provide excellent grip for pastel sticks and cakes, enabling artists to work on layering and blending.

Sandpaper

Sandpaper offers a unique texture that can hold pastels well, allowing for vibrant color application and blending. Brands like UART and Sennelier provide various grits suitable for different pastel techniques.

Textured Drawing Paper

For artists who prefer more versatility, heavy-weight textured drawing paper can work well with pastels. Look for papers with a tooth like those from Fabriano or Arches. These papers offer a textured surface that can also be used for other drawing mediums.

Colored Paper

Colored pastel paper can enhance the vibrancy of your pastel art and provide a nice backdrop for your work. Experiment with different colors to find the perfect match for your style.

Specific Brands and Types for Beginners

Some popular options for beginners include Brusto pastel pads and Canson Mi-Teintes. Canson Mi-Teintes is particularly noteworthy, as it features a honeycombed texture on one side and a fine tooth on the other, allowing for easier application and blending. Normal mount board is also a viable option for those preferring a heavier, more durable surface.

Advanced Artist Options

For artists in the higher end of the spectrum, pastelmat paper is a great choice. It combines the features of traditional pastel paper with added durability and texture, making it ideal for more demanding projects.

Charlie’s Favorite Pastel Paper and Tips

Charlie, a seasoned pastel artist, frequently recommends the Art Spectrum Colourfix paper. While individual sheets are somewhat pricey for beginners, Art Spectrum also offers a primer that can be applied to various surfaces to create a similar effect. The primer has a grit similar to sharkskin, making it easy to apply pastels and ensuring they adhere well.

Alternative Fixes for a Dyer Budget

There are other less expensive pastel papers available, but Art Spectrum's paper and primer combination offers the right grip and vibrant colors for the background of your work. If budget is a concern, consider looking into other brands that offer similar features at a lower cost.

Conclusion

Whether you're a beginner or an advanced artist, selecting the right pastel paper is essential for achieving the best possible results. Experiment with different types and brands to find what suits your artistic vision and technique best.

Keywords: pastel paper, soft pastel, beginner's guide