What is the Difference Between Pastels and Oil Pastels?

Pastels and oil pastels are both art mediums that come in stick form and have pigments like traditional oil paint. However, they have different consistencies and compositions, which result in distinct characteristics and uses.

Pastels (soft and hard) are made by combining pigment with water and an artificial binder, making them very dry and prone to crumbling. They are chalky or powdery in texture. Some key features of pastels include:

• Vibrant and intense colors when soft pastels are used.
• Easy to apply and blend, with soft pastels being the easiest to layer and cover larger areas quickly.
• Prone to smudging and dustiness, requiring protection behind glass if used for finished artwork.

Oil Pastels use wet binders, such as oils, to collect the pigment into a solid stick. They have a crayon-like texture and offer the following benefits:

• More durable than soft pastels and less prone to crumbling.
• Intense colors due to the wet nature of the medium.
• Can be mixed and blended, making them suitable for various techniques.
• Can be used with solvents like turpentine to create a thinner texture.

In summary, pastels and oil pastels share some similarities but have distinct characteristics in terms of consistency, texture, and use. Artists can choose between the two mediums depending on their desired artistic outcome and personal preferences.

Comparative Table: Pastels vs Oil Pastels

Here is a table comparing the differences between pastels and oil pastels:

In summary, pastels are made by combining pigment with water and an artificial binder, resulting in a dry and chalky texture. Oil pastels, on the other hand, are made with pigment mixed with oil and wax binder, giving them a softer and more durable consistency. Oil pastels are less prone to dust and smudging, and they can be used with solvents to create different textures. However, oil pastels are generally less compatible with other pastel types and are less widely available in terms of color range and brands.