Oil pastels are a versatile tool for artists of all levels. They offer a unique texture and vibrant colors that can enhance any artwork. If you’re looking for the best oil pastels to add to your collection, there are a few things to consider.
First and foremost, the quality of the pigment is crucial. High-quality oil pastels have a higher concentration of pigment, which means they produce richer and more vibrant colors. Additionally, the type of binder used can affect the quality of the pastels. Some binders can cause the pastels to crumble or become too soft, while others provide a smooth and consistent texture.
When choosing the best oil pastels, it’s also important to consider the type of surface you’ll be working on. Some pastels work better on certain types of paper or canvas, while others may require a specific type of fixative to prevent smudging.
To help you find the best oil pastels for your needs, we’ve tested and reviewed several top brands. Our comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision and take your artwork to the next level.
Best Oil Pastels
If you’re an artist looking to experiment with a new medium or a beginner just starting out, oil pastels might be the perfect choice for you. They offer a unique texture and vibrant colors that can bring your artwork to life. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right set. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best oil pastels on Amazon to help you make an informed decision. Take a look at our top picks below and find the perfect set for your next project.
MUNGYO Gallery Soft Oil Pastels Set of 48 – Assorted Colors
If you’re looking for a high-quality set of oil pastels, the MUNGYO Gallery Soft Oil Pastels Set of 48 – Assorted Colors is worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes a wide range of vibrant colors that are perfect for creating stunning works of art.
- The pastels are soft and blend easily, making them ideal for creating smooth, textured effects.
- The pastels are made with high-quality materials, ensuring that they are durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the pastels can be a bit messy and difficult to work with.
- The set may not be suitable for beginners who are just starting to experiment with oil pastels.
- The pastels may be a bit pricey for some users, especially those who are on a tight budget.
If you’re an experienced artist who is looking for a high-quality set of oil pastels that will help you create stunning works of art, the MUNGYO Gallery Soft Oil Pastels Set of 48 – Assorted Colors is definitely worth considering. With a wide range of vibrant colors and a soft, blendable texture, these pastels are perfect for creating smooth, textured effects that will make your artwork stand out. However, if you’re a beginner who is just starting to experiment with oil pastels, you may want to consider a more affordable set that is easier to work with. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality set of oil pastels that will provide you with excellent results, the MUNGYO Gallery Soft Oil Pastels Set of 48 – Assorted Colors is definitely worth checking out.
Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors
If you’re looking for a set of oil pastels that are versatile, easy to use, and come in a wide range of vibrant colors, the Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The set includes 48 brilliant colors that are perfect for a wide range of art projects.
- These oil pastels are soft to the touch, making them easy to blend and shade.
- Each oil pastel comes with its own independent paper sleeve, which helps to prevent breakage and makes them easy to store and transport.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the pastels can be a bit messy to work with.
- The set may not include all of the colors that some artists need for their projects.
- The oil pastels may not be suitable for use on all types of paper or surfaces.
If you’re looking for a set of oil pastels that are easy to use, versatile, and come in a wide range of vibrant colors, the Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors is an excellent choice. These oil pastels are soft to the touch, making them easy to blend and shade, and each pastel comes with its own independent paper sleeve, which helps to prevent breakage and makes them easy to store and transport. While some users have reported that the pastels can be a bit messy to work with, and the set may not include all of the colors that some artists need for their projects, overall, the Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors is a great choice for artists of all skill levels.
Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastel Crayons – 36 Vibrant Colors
If you’re looking for a complete set of oil pastel crayons with excellent color opacity and smooth color laydown, the Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastel Crayons are definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Complete set of 36 vibrant colors
- Diverse oil pastels ideal for encaustic, pastel, and scraping techniques
- Soft and easy to blend with other mediums
Cons
- May not be the best option for professional artists
- Texture is medium-firm, not as creamy as other brands
- Some users report difficulty with blending certain colors
These oil pastels are very lightfast, resistant to fading, and acid-free art materials. They are tested and safe, making them ideal for artists of all ages. Since 1761, Faber-Castell has been creating high-quality art and school supplies for kids, adults, and professional artists alike.
The Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastel Crayons are very soft and easy to blend with other mediums – simply blend with your finger, white spirit, or baby oil (for thinning) for great mixed media projects. These oil pastels have excellent color opacity that provides a smooth color laydown for rich pastel effects.
While these oil pastels may not be the best option for professional artists, they are a great choice for students, hobbyists, and anyone looking for a complete set of oil pastel crayons to experiment with. They are also a great value for the price.
In summary, if you’re looking for a complete set of oil pastel crayons that are easy to blend and provide smooth color laydown, the Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastel Crayons are definitely worth considering.
Mont Marte Oil Pastels in Tin Box Signature 48pc
If you want to create eye-catching artwork with a range of techniques, the Mont Marte Oil Pastels in Tin Box Signature 48pc is an ideal choice.
Pros
- Includes 48 vibrant, oil-based colors in a tin storage case
- Soft, buttery texture for seamless application and blending
- Suitable for paper, card, and canvas
Cons
- Layering may be a problem
- Takes longer to dry due to oil-based formula
- Not suitable for detailed work
These pastels have a soft, buttery texture that makes them easy to apply and blend. You can even combine them for a bigger color palette of clean mixes. The set comes in a handy storage tin to keep your pastels organized and in great shape.
The Mont Marte Oil Pastels in Tin Box Signature 48pc are ideal for a variety of surfaces, including textured paper, colored paper, and card. You can even scratch into thick layers for a Sgraffito technique or add an oil medium for a glossy glaze effect.
Overall, if you’re looking for a comprehensive set of oil pastels with a range of vibrant colors, the Mont Marte Oil Pastels in Tin Box Signature 48pc is a great choice.
TABL Oil Pastels Set
If you’re looking for an oil pastel set that is perfect for beginners and pros alike, the TABL Oil Pastels Set could be a great choice for you.
Pros
- The set includes 48 vibrant colors and 2 fillers, providing a wide range of options for your artwork.
- The oil pastels have a unique texture that is perfect for drawing and coloring.
- The manufacturer offers excellent customer service and replacement for damaged goods.
Cons
- The oil pastels need to be warmed under the sun in winter before use, which may not be convenient for some users.
- The sticks may become excessively soft if not heated correctly, but can be restored by freezing them.
- The set is designed for kids and may not be suitable for professional artists.
The TABL Oil Pastels Set is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a set of oil pastels that provides a wide range of colors and a unique texture for your artwork. The manufacturer also offers excellent customer service and replacement for damaged goods.
The set includes 48 vibrant colors and 2 fillers, allowing you to mix and cover multiple colors just like paint. The oil pastels have a unique texture that is perfect for drawing and coloring, making them an excellent tool for artists of all ages and skill levels.
However, the oil pastels need to be warmed under the sun in winter before use, which may not be convenient for some users. The sticks may become excessively soft if not heated correctly, but can be restored by freezing them. Additionally, the set is designed for kids and may not be suitable for professional artists.
In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality oil pastel set that is suitable for both beginners and pros, the TABL Oil Pastels Set could be a great choice for you.
Mont Marte Soft Pastels in Tin Box Signature 48pc
If you’re looking for a set of oil pastels with a wide range of colors and a soft, powdery texture, Mont Marte Soft Pastels in Tin Box Signature 48pc is a great option.
Pros
- Includes 48 vibrant colors & tin storage case
- Soft, powdery texture for seamless application and color blending
- Pastels can shade large areas and create fine lines
Cons
- May not be suitable for those who prefer harder pastels
- Some users may find that the pastels break easily
- May not be as blendable as some other brands
Mont Marte Soft Pastels in Tin Box Signature 48pc are a great choice for artists who want a wide range of colors to work with. The set includes 48 vibrant colors that can be blended together to create a variety of shades and tones. The pastels have a soft, powdery texture that makes them easy to blend and apply to paper. They can be used to shade large areas or create fine lines, making them versatile for different types of artwork.
One of the benefits of this set is that it comes with a tin storage case, which makes it easy to keep the pastels organized and protected. The case is compact and portable, so you can take it with you wherever you go. The pastels are also suitable for use with pastel pencils and charcoal, so you can use them in combination with other mediums.
While the soft texture of these pastels is a pro for many users, some may find that they prefer harder pastels that are easier to control. Additionally, some users have reported that the pastels break easily, which can be frustrating when you’re in the middle of a project. Finally, while the pastels are blendable, they may not be as blendable as some other brands on the market.
Overall, Mont Marte Soft Pastels in Tin Box Signature 48pc are a great choice for artists who want a wide range of colors and a soft, powdery texture. The set is versatile and comes with a convenient storage case, making it a great option for artists on the go.
Arrtx Oil Pastels
If you’re an artist looking for high-quality oil pastels, Arrtx Oil Pastels might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- With 72 vibrant colors, the Arrtx Oil Pastels present a unique texture sensation that makes them ideal for painting, drawing, or coloring.
- The oil pastels are soft, and make much smoother blends without the pilling, suitable for blending and scraper techniques.
- The Arrtx Oil Pastels are eco-friendly, safe, and fun to use.
Cons
- The pastels are incredibly messy to work with, so you might want to use them with tools to help counteract some of the mess.
- The Arrtx Oil Pastels are not as oily as some other brands, but they still blend easily and have nice colors.
- The Arrtx Oil Pastels are not as expensive as some of the top brands, but they are still a bit pricey.
Arrtx Oil Pastels are perfect for artists of all ages. With their cylindrical shape, they are easy to control, soft but not easy to break. Both artists and hobbyists will enjoy their creamy texture that quickly transfers to the paper and blends well with other colors.
The Arrtx Oil Pastels are sized in 68 mm × Ø 10mm round pastels with paper sleeves, making them easy to use and handle. They are intense in color and particularly soft and pleasant to use on paper and other smooth media.
In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality oil pastel set with a wide range of colors, Arrtx Oil Pastels are a great choice. They are easy to use, eco-friendly, and produce beautiful results.
Sennelier Oil Pastel Set, 24 Count
If you’re looking for high-quality oil pastels that work on a variety of surfaces, the Sennelier Oil Pastel Set is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Outstanding lightfastness
- Acid-free
- Excellent for mixed media approaches
Cons
- Expensive
- Pastels are very soft and may break easily
- Not ideal for beginners on a budget
These highly pigmented oil pastels are perfect for artists who want to create vivid and long-lasting artwork. They work on a variety of surfaces, including canvas, paper, metal, wood, stone, and even glass. The acid-free formula ensures that your artwork will not yellow or fade over time.
The Sennelier Oil Pastel Set is also excellent for mixed media approaches. You can use them with other mediums, such as acrylics or watercolors, to create unique and stunning effects.
Despite their high quality, these oil pastels are expensive and may not be ideal for beginners on a budget. Additionally, the pastels are very soft and may break easily, so you’ll need to handle them with care.
Overall, if you’re looking for high-quality oil pastels that produce vibrant and long-lasting artwork, the Sennelier Oil Pastel Set is a great choice.
SAKURA Cray-Pas Junior Artist Soft Oil Pastels for Kids & Artists – 25 Color Set
If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality oil pastel set, the SAKURA Cray-Pas Junior Artist Soft Oil Pastels are an excellent choice.
Pros
- These oil pastels are perfect for kids and artists alike, and are ideal for creating beautiful painterly effects.
- The set is easy to blend, and the creamy, smooth color can be smeared, blended, dotted, overlapped and mixed to create a variety of effects.
- The oil pastels are free of tree-nut oils, soy, latex, wheat, oat, barley, animal oils or waxes, dairy, casein, or egg ingredients, making them safe for use.
Cons
- The oil pastels are not recommended for use on fabrics intended to be washed, on food service or ceramics that are washed, and are not evaluated for cosmetic use on skin.
- The set includes 12 colors, which may not be enough for some artists who require a larger variety of shades.
- Some users have reported that the oil pastels are prone to breaking or crumbling, especially if they are not handled carefully.
These oil pastels are perfect for young artists who are just starting to explore their creativity, as well as for more experienced artists who want to experiment with different techniques and effects. The oil pastels are easy to use and blend, and the creamy, smooth color can be used to create a variety of effects, from oil paint effects to overlaying color.
One of the biggest advantages of these oil pastels is that they are free of allergens, such as tree-nut oils, soy, latex, wheat, oat, barley, animal oils or waxes, dairy, casein, or egg ingredients. This makes them safe for use by people with allergies or sensitivities.
However, it’s worth noting that the oil pastels are not recommended for use on fabrics intended to be washed, on food service or ceramics that are washed, and are not evaluated for cosmetic use on skin. Additionally, the set includes only 12 colors, which may not be enough for some artists who require a larger variety of shades.
Despite these limitations, the SAKURA Cray-Pas Junior Artist Soft Oil Pastels are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and high-quality oil pastel set.
Paul Rubens Artist Oil Pastels 48 Colors Set – Soft and Smooth Pastel are Easy-to-Mix, Professional Oil Pastel set Drawing Kit Art Supplies for both Kids and Adults Paint 1
If you’re looking for a high-quality oil pastel set that provides a wide range of colors and is easy to use, the Paul Rubens Artist Oil Pastels 48 Colors Set is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Unleash your artistic potential with our oil pastel set; Perfect for everyone who wants to create both beginners and experienced artists, these colorful versatile pastels allow you to create stunning artwork that captures the essence of your imagination.
- Experience the Joy of Seamless Color Blending! Paul Rubens oil pastels for artists offer a wide range of vibrant shades, making it effortless to mix and layer colors; Discover endless possibilities as you bring your artistic visions to life.
- Quality is Our Utmost Priority! Our oil pastels art supplies are crafted using premium pigments, ensuring long-lasting color intensity and resistance to fading; Trust in the durability and reliability of our product for all your artistic endeavors.
Cons
- The oil pastels can be a bit greasy and wet, which can cause them to melt into the paper wrapping.
- The oil pastels have a noticeable odor, which may bother some users.
- The set is quite oily, which may not be ideal for beginners.
If you’re looking for a high-quality oil pastel set that provides a wide range of colors and is easy to use, the Paul Rubens Artist Oil Pastels 48 Colors Set is definitely worth considering. With a smooth and creamy texture, these oil pastels are easy to blend and layer, allowing you to create stunning artwork that captures the essence of your imagination. However, they can be a bit greasy and wet, which can cause them to melt into the paper wrapping, and they have a noticeable odor, which may bother some users. Additionally, the set is quite oily, which may not be ideal for beginners.
SAKURA Cray-Pas Junior Artist Oil Pastel Set
If you’re looking for a safe and non-toxic oil pastel set for kids or beginners, the SAKURA Cray-Pas Junior Artist Oil Pastel Set might be a good choice for you.
Pros
- Sakura is a trusted brand that has been producing oil pastels since 1925.
- These oil pastels are allergen-free and meet ACMI non-toxicity standards, making them safe for use.
- The set comes with 12 colors that apply smoothly and blend easily to create beautiful painterly effects.
Cons
- These oil pastels might not be as smooth as some other premium-quality oil pastels.
- Some users have reported that these oil pastels don’t blend as well as they expected.
- The packaging might not be as durable as some other oil pastel sets.
The SAKURA Cray-Pas Junior Artist Oil Pastel Set is a good option for parents who want to introduce their kids to oil pastels or beginners who are looking for a safe and non-toxic set. These oil pastels are easy to use and blend well, but might not be as smooth or durable as some other premium-quality oil pastels.
Pentel Arts Oil Pastel Set
If you’re looking for oil pastels that produce vibrant colors and are easy to use, the Pentel Arts Oil Pastel Set is worth considering.
Pros
- Applies smoothly and blends easily for subtle shades, tints, and color mixtures
- Ideal for artists of all ages
- Acid-free pastels are resistant to the effects of humidity for longer-lasting drawings
Cons
- May not be suitable for advanced artists looking for more nuanced colors
- Some users may find the carrying case to be flimsy
- Pastels may break easily if not handled with care
This oil pastel set from Pentel Arts is perfect for those who want to add more life to their artwork. The colors are more vivid than chalk pastels, and the pastels are more resistant to the effects of humidity, making your drawings last longer. The acid-free pastels are ideal for use on paper, board, or canvas, and they apply smoothly and blend easily for subtle shades, tints, and color mixtures. This set also includes a carrying case for easy storage and transport.
One downside of this set is that it may not be suitable for advanced artists looking for more nuanced colors. Some users may also find the carrying case to be flimsy. Additionally, the pastels may break easily if not handled with care.
Overall, the Pentel Arts Oil Pastel Set is a great choice for artists of all ages and skill levels who want to add more vibrant colors to their artwork.
SAKURA Cray-Pas Expressionist Oil Pastel Set
If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality oil pastel set, the SAKURA Cray-Pas Expressionist Oil Pastel Set is a great option.
Pros
- The set includes 50 sticks, providing a wide range of colors to work with.
- The oil pastels apply smoothly and blend well, making them ideal for creating painterly effects.
- The pastels are non-toxic, so they are safe for use by artists of all ages.
Cons
- The pastels may diminish quickly depending on how much coverage you’re wanting out of them.
- Some users may find the pastels difficult to blend.
- If you’re looking for a set with a wider range of colors, you may need to supplement this set with additional pastels.
This oil pastel set is perfect for artists of all skill levels who are looking for high-quality pastels that apply smoothly and blend well. The set includes a wide range of colors, making it easy to create a variety of effects on paper, cardboard, canvas, and wood.
The SAKURA Cray-Pas Expressionist Oil Pastel Set is also non-toxic, so it’s safe for use by artists of all ages. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this oil pastel set is a great choice for your next project.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality oil pastel set that offers a wide range of colors and smooth application, the SAKURA Cray-Pas Expressionist Oil Pastel Set is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying oil pastels, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
Quality
The quality of the oil pastels is a crucial factor to consider. High-quality oil pastels will have a smooth texture, vibrant colors, and good coverage. They should also be easy to blend and layer, allowing you to create a range of effects.
Pigment
The pigment is what gives the oil pastel its color. Look for oil pastels with high pigment concentration, as this will result in more intense and vibrant colors. It’s also important to choose oil pastels with lightfast pigments, which means the colors will not fade over time.
Hardness
Oil pastels come in different levels of hardness, from soft to hard. Soft oil pastels are easier to blend and layer, while hard oil pastels are better for creating fine details. Consider the type of artwork you plan to create and choose the hardness level that best suits your needs.
Size and Shape
Oil pastels come in various sizes and shapes, including round, square, and hexagonal. Some artists prefer larger oil pastels as they cover more surface area, while others prefer smaller ones for more precise work. The shape of the oil pastel can also affect how it feels in your hand and how it applies to the paper.
Price
Oil pastels can vary in price, with some brands being more expensive than others. Consider your budget and choose oil pastels that offer good value for money. Keep in mind that high-quality oil pastels may be more expensive but can provide better results and last longer.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best oil pastels for your needs and create beautiful artwork with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated oil pastels for professional artists?
Professional artists often prefer oil pastels that offer a high level of pigment concentration, smoothness, and blendability. Some of the top-rated oil pastels for professional artists include Sennelier Oil Pastels, Holbein Artists’ Oil Pastels, and Caran d’Ache Neopastels.
Which oil pastels are recommended for beginners to use?
For beginners, it is recommended to start with oil pastels that are affordable, easy to use, and offer a decent level of quality. Some of the best oil pastels for beginners include Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, Sakura Cray-Pas Expressionist Oil Pastels, and Mungyo Gallery Soft Oil Pastels.
What are the best oil pastels available for children?
Oil pastels designed for children should be non-toxic, easy to hold, and offer vibrant colors. Some of the best oil pastels for children include Crayola Oil Pastels, Faber-Castell Blendable Oil Pastels, and Reeves Soft Oil Pastels.
How can one achieve optimal blending with oil pastels?
To achieve optimal blending with oil pastels, it is recommended to layer colors gradually, blend colors with a blending tool or fingers, and use a fixative spray to prevent smudging. Additionally, using a textured surface such as watercolor paper or canvas can help achieve better blending.
What surfaces are ideal for creating oil pastel artwork?
Oil pastels can be used on a variety of surfaces, including paper, canvas, wood, and even glass. However, it is recommended to use surfaces that are textured and can hold the pigment, such as watercolor paper or canvas.
Are there any notable differences in quality among popular oil pastel brands?
Yes, there are notable differences in quality among popular oil pastel brands. Some brands offer a higher level of pigment concentration, smoother texture, and better blendability than others. It is recommended to research and experiment with different brands to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
