The Best Paper for Oil Pastels

\What are the best types of paper to use for oil pastels in 2023? Which papers will give you the best results for your artwork?

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the top options available to artists and provide our recommendation for the best paper for oil pastels in 2023.

So if you’re looking to create beautiful pieces with oil pastels, read on…

Best Paper For Oil Pastel For Student & Professional Artists

Any artist will tell you that the quality of your tools has a direct impact on the final result. This is especially true when it comes to choosing the right paper for oil pastels.

While there are many options available, not all papers are created equal. For the best results, artists should look for a paper that is heavyweight and has a smooth surface.

Additionally, the paper should be acid-free to prevent it from yellowing over time. With so many factors to consider, it can be tough to know where to start.

To help you narrow down the options, we’ve put together a list of the best papers for oil pastels, based on our own experiences and the recommendations of other professional artists.

Here is a closer look at some of the best papers for oil pastels, both for student and professional artists.

**This page may contain affiliate links to products I have used or recommend. If you purchase something from this page, I may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.**

Sennelier Oil Pastel Card Pads

The Sennelier Oil Pastel Card Pad is a specially-formulated cardstock that is perfect for oil pastels.

The thick, 160 lb. (340 gsm) sheets are acid-free and interleaved with Glassine sheets to prevent your oil pastel paintings from seeping, bleeding through, or haloing.

This cardstock is also incredibly sturdy, meaning that your paintings will be protected for years to come.

Whether you are a professional artist or a beginner, the Sennelier Oil Pastel Card Pad is an awesome surface to work on with oil pastel.

UArt Premium Sanded Pastel Papers

For artists who want high-quality sanded pastel paper that is both consistent and durable, UArt premium sanded pastel paper is an excellent option.

The pads are flip-pads that hold 10 acid-free, pH-neutral sheets of paper, which are separated by acid-free glassine sheets.

This protects the artwork from smudging and flaking. The 400 grade has a moderate “bite,” while the 600 grade is super fine.

Both grades accept many layers of hard or soft pastels, yet also work well with other media.

The low-profile surface allows for easy erasing of pencil or chalk pastel, but is also fabulous for oil pastel work.

Faber-Castell Black Paper Pad – 25 sheets of 9′′ x 12′′ Paper

The Faber-Castell Black Paper Sketch Pad is perfect for artists of all ages who are looking for a versatile and environmentally friendly paper.

The heavyweight black 110 gsm paper is made from 50% post-consumer recycled materials and works best with metallic pencils and gel crayons, oil pastels, beeswax crayons, and metallic colored pencils.

The pad holds 25 sheets of rich, black paper that is perfect for sketching, drawing, and doodling.

Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist, the Faber-Castell Black Paper Sketch Pad is the perfect choice for your next project.

Canson Mi-Teintes Drawing Papers

The Canson Mi-Teintes Drawing Paper is a top-quality product perfect for those who want the best of the best.

The paper has a “vellum” texture which provides an excellent surface for pastel, oil pastel, chalk, pencil, watercolor, and acrylic.

The paper is heavy, 98 lb (160 gsm), and has a high rag content (66%) to ensure long life without deterioration.

The tape-bound pads are especially well suited to pastels and each 24-sheet pad contains four sheets each of six different colors.

With so many features, the Canson Mi-Teintes Drawing Paper is sure to please even the most particular oil-pastel artist.

Papelsino, Bristol Paper Sketchbook for Dry Media Oil Pastel

For those who love to sketch, paint, or draw, finding the perfect paper is essential.

Papelsino’s Bristol Paper Sketchbook is ideal for dry media like colored pencils, oil pastels, and pencil drawing.

The vellum surface is smooth and perfect for detailed work, while the 8.5″ x 11″ size makes it easy to take on the go. Plus, the sketchbook comes in a handy 2-pack so you’ll always have a backup.

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, Papelsino’s Bristol Paper Sketchbook is a great choice for your next project.

Arteza 9×12 inch black sketch pad

If you’re looking for a sketch pad that’s easy to use and produces great results, you’ll love the Arteza 9×12 inch black sketch pad.

This wire-bound drawing pad lays flat for ease of creation, and each page rips out true-to-size sheets that are perfect for framing. The black pages provide an immediate contrast that makes your white media pop.

And you’ll have no problem achieving a contrast with this paper, especially if you’re using white media.

The Arteza 9×12 inch black sketch pad is ideal for dry media, including graphite pencils, colored pencils, charcoal, oil pastels, gel pens, chalk, ink, and much more!

Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad

The Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is a high-quality pad of paper that is perfect for a variety of drawing media, including hard, soft, and oil pastels.

The textured finish and subtle colors make it a great background for your artwork, and the acid-free paper ensures that your drawings will last for years to come.

Each pad contains 24 total sheets of quality oil pastel paper, including 4 sheets each of 6 different colors. The paper is 80 lb (118 gsm) and acid-free.

Pads are bound on the short side and feature flip-over covers that make it easy to work in the pad.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned artist, the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is a great choice for your next oil pastel project.

Canson XL Sand Grain Dry Mixed Media Pads

Canson’s new XL Sand Grain Dry Mixed Media Pads are perfect for drawing and sketching with graphite, colored pencil, oil pastel, and charcoal.

The innovative paper is made from organic, renewable materials for a textured sand grain finish that is easy to erase.

Sheets can be used on both sides and retain pigment beautifully, allowing for the creation of subtle color effects.

Bound on the short side, these tape-bound pads contain 40 sheets of 98 lb (160 gsm) paper.

Whether your medium is soft or hard, dry or wet, Canson’s latest offering provides the perfect surface for your artistic vision. So grab a pad and get creating!

U.S. Art Supply Pastel Paper Pad – oil pastel papers

The US Art Supply Pastel Paper Pad is a great choice for those just starting to work with oil pastels. The paper has enough tooth that the pastels can easily adhere to it, but it’s still smooth enough that beginners won’t have too much trouble working with it.

The acid-free, neutral pH paper also contains 4 sheets each of 4 different natural color tones, so you can experiment with a variety of hues.

And since the paper is ideal for use with graphite pencils, colored pencils, charcoal, sketching sticks, hard or soft pastels, oil pastels, and other mixed media, you’ll be able to create some truly unique artwork.

So if you’re looking for a versatile and user-friendly oil pastel paper, the US Art Supply Pastel Paper Pad is a great choice.

MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad A4 Size

The MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad is a great choice for artists who want a good-quality paper. The woven textured finish gives the paper a professional look and feel, while the acid-free nature of the paper prevents the colors from fading over time.

The 25% cotton content makes the paper extra durable, so it can withstand multiple layers of pastel without tearing. And the size is perfect for oil pastel, dry pastel, and other media.

Overall, the MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad is a great choice for artists who are selling their work.

Hahnemuhle bugra pastel paper

Hahnemuhle Bugra pastel paper is a high-quality, professional-grade paper that is perfect for those who want to create artwork that will last for years.

This 100% alpha-cellulose paper is mold-made in Germany and has a laid, toothy texture on one side and a smooth texture on the other, giving artists a choice in how they work.

Hahnemuhle Bugra is specifically made for pastels and charcoal, but it also works well for pencils, graphite, and other drawing mediums. This neutral pH paper is highly lightfast and measures 33.53″ × 41.73″ (86 cm × 107 cm).

Oil Pastel Papers vs Paper Pads: Which should you use?

As an artist, you want your work to look its best. That’s why it’s important to choose the right type of paper for your oil pastels.

Paper pads are a great choice for practice or quick sketches, but if you’re looking for a more professional finish, oil pastel papers are the way to go.

These papers are designed specifically for use with oil pastels, and they offer a smoother surface that helps to create a more even color.

In addition, oil pastel papers are available in a variety of weights and textures, so you can find the perfect paper for your project.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned oil pastel artist, specific oil pastel papers can aid you in creating stunning works of art.

Why Should You Carefully Choose your Paper?

As an artist, it is important to choose the right paper for your oil pastel art. The type of paper you use can affect the look and feel of your final piece.

Oil pastels are known for their rich pigments and creamy texture. They can be used to create both bold and subtle works of art.

However, oil pastels can be difficult to control on some papers. That’s why it’s important to carefully select a paper that is specifically designed for use with oil pastels.

Papers made for oil pastel art have a smooth surface that allows the pastels to glide on evenly.

They also have good “tooth,” meaning they provide enough texture for the pastels to adhere to. This ensures that your oil pastel art will have good color saturation and will be easy to blend.

In addition, oil pastel papers are available in a variety of weights and textures. This gives you the ability to choose a paper that best suits your project.

So whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned artist, it’s important to carefully select the right paper for your oil pastel art. Doing so will ensure that you create a beautiful and professional-looking final product.

What is the best oil pastel canvas?

Oil pastels are a type of painting medium that consists of pigment-based sticks enclosed in a wax binding agent. Because they contain a high amount of pigments, oil pastels are very vibrant and intense in color.

They can be used on a variety of surfaces, including paper, cardboard, and even canvas or canvas paper. When used on a canvas, oil pastels can create striking works of art.

The best canvases for oil pastels are those that are made of smooth, evenly textured fabric and primed with a good quality primer. This provides a surface that is easy to work with and allows the colors to really stand out.

It is important to prime the canvas before beginning to paint, as this will help the colors to adhere better and prevent the medium from seeping through the fabric.

Once the canvas is primed, you can begin to paint with oil pastels. For best results, it is recommended that you use a variety of strokes and blending techniques.

By carefully selecting the right canvas and using the proper painting techniques, you can create beautiful oil pastel art that will last for years.

Blick Academic Cotton Stretched Canvas Packs

When it comes to finding the right supplies for your art projects, quality is important. But as any artist knows, quality comes at a cost.

That’s why Blick Academic Cotton Stretched Canvas Packs are such a great deal. You get two high-quality canvases for a fraction of the price you would pay elsewhere.

The 5/8″ thick stretcher bars are made of solid pine wood, and the 4 oz cotton canvas is triple-coated with an acrylic gesso for a primed weight of 9 oz. Plus, the canvases are back-stapled for easier re-stretching.

These canvases are made for oil paints, but work beautifully for oil pastels as well. The smooth surface and even texture make them ideal for oil pastel art.

In addition, the canvases are stretched tightly over the bars so there is no sagging or wrinkling. This ensures that your oil pastel art will have a professional-looking finish.

So if you’re looking for high-quality canvases at an affordable price, be sure to check out Blick Academic Cotton Stretched Canvas Packs.

Whether you’re a student on a budget or a seasoned artist looking for a good deal, Blick Academic Cotton Stretched Canvas Packs are a great choice.

Before You Buy | 8 Considerations Before Purchasing Oil Pastel Paper

Oil pastel paper comes in a wide variety of colors, textures, and sizes. Deciding which type of paper to buy can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to oil pastels.

Here are eight considerations to keep in mind before purchasing oil pastel paper:

The Color of the Pastel Papers

The color of the pastel paper will affect the overall look of your painting. Choose a color that complements the subject matter.

If you’re unsure which color to choose, start with white or cream-colored paper. These neutral colors provide a blank canvas that will allow your oil pastels to really pop.

The Texture of the Oil Pastel Papers

The best oil pastel papers come in both heavy and light-textured. The texture of the paper impacts the way the pastels will apply and blend. If you want more control over the application, choose a smoother paper. For a more textured effect, go for a rougher surface.

The Paper Weight or Thickness

The weight or thickness of the paper is another important factor to consider. Heavier papers are more durable and can withstand multiple layers of pastel, but they’re also more difficult to work with.

If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with a lighter paper.

The Size

The size of the paper will dictate how large or small your painting can be. Choose a size that is appropriate for the project you have in mind.

If you’re not sure what size to choose, a standard 8.5″ x 11″ sheet is a good place to start.

The Finish

The surface finish of the paper can be glossy or matte. Matte papers are best for oil pastels, as they allow for more pigment to be applied to the surface.

Glossy papers are best suited for other media, such as watercolors or acrylics.

The Type of Paper

There are two main types of paper used for oil pastels: hot press and cold press.

Hotpress paper has a smooth surface, making it ideal for detailed work. Cold press paper has a slightly textured surface, which is best for blending and creating softer effects.

The Brand

There are so many oil pastel paper brands. Some brands, such as Canson and Strathmore, are known for their high-quality papers. It’s important to do some research to find the best brand for your needs.

The Price

The price of the paper will vary depending on the brand, quality, and size. Set a budget before you start shopping so you know how much you’re willing to spend.

Pad vs Loose Sheets

When it comes to oil pastel paper, you have the option of buying pads or loose sheets.

Pads are less expensive and more convenient, but they’re not as high quality as loose sheets. Loose sheets are ideal for framing or selling your artwork, but they’re more expensive.

How To Use Oil Pastels On Paper?

If you’re new to using oil pastels, then this simple guide will take you through the basic steps to start using oil pastels.

The first step is to sketch out your design with a pencil.
You can then begin to fill in the sketch with oil pastels, starting with the lightest colors and working your way up to the darkest. One thing to keep in mind is that oil pastels are very pigmented, so a little goes a long way.
Once you’re finished filling in your sketch, you can go over it with a layer of fixative to protect it from smudging. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful works of art with oil pastels.

How can I blend oil pastels?

Oil pastel is a great medium to use to add color and detail to your drawings. However, blending oil pastels can be a bit tricky.

Here are a few tips to help you get the perfect blend:

Use light pressure when applying the colors. This will help to avoid creating unwanted streaks.
Lay down one color first, then add the second color on top. Use a circular motion to blend the two colors together.
If you want a more intense color, add another layer of color on top of the first two. Repeat the blending process until you’re happy with the result.
To create a softer blend, use a cotton swab or brush to lightly blend the colors together.

Check out this great video on using Oil Pastels on Canvas…

Top Tips for using oil pastels

Oil pastels are a versatile medium that can be used for a variety of applications. Here are some top tips for using oil pastels:

Experiment with different strokes and techniques to create interesting textural effects.
Layer different colors on top of each other to create new shades and hues.
Use a fixative spray to help set your work and prevent smudging.
Oil pastels can be used on a variety of surfaces, including paper, cardboard, and even wood.
Keep your oil pastels stored in a cool, dry place to prevent them from drying out or becoming brittle.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to get the most out of your oil pastels and create beautiful works of art.

Other Frequently Asked Questions about Oil Pastel Paper…

Can you use normal paper for oil pastels?

Oil pastels are a type of artist’s crayon that consists of pigment held together with a binder.

They can be used on a variety of surfaces, including paper, canvas, and wood. However, not all papers are equally suited for oil pastels.

Heavy-duty drawing papers or mixed-media papers are the best choices, as they are thicker and more resistant to wrinkling.

Newsprint, construction paper, and other types of thin paper should be avoided, as they will buckle and warp under the heavy layers of color.

For the best results, choose a high-quality paper specifically designed for oil pastels.

What are the tones of oil pastel paper?

Oil pastel paper comes in a wide range of colors, tones, and hues. While the traditional white oil pastel paper is ideal for creating detailed and delicate artworks, other colors can be used to create more vibrant and daring pieces.

For example, black oil pastel paper is perfect for creating dark and moody landscapes, while brighter shades like yellow or pink can be used to create cheerful and energetic scenes.

Whatever the desired effect, there is an oil pastel paper to suit every artist’s needs.

While the color of the oil pastel paper may not seem like a big deal, it can actually have a significant impact on the final artwork. For instance, using light-colored oil pastel paper can help to create a softer and more subtle effect, while dark-colored paper will make the colors pop and appear more vibrant.

The best way to choose the right color oil pastel paper is to experiment with different tones and see what works best for your individual style.

What is the texture of oil pastel paper?

When it comes to oil pastels, the paper you use can make a big difference in the finished product.

A rougher paper will provide more tooth, or texture, for the pastels to grip onto, resulting in a more textured final painting.

A smoother paper, on the other hand, will allow for more blending and finer details.

If you’re not sure which type of paper to use, it’s always best to experiment with a few different types until you find the one that suits your style.

Is dual surface paper available?

Many artists enjoy working with oil pastels because of their rich, creamy texture. However, one challenge that can be encountered when working with oil pastels is finding the right type of paper.

Since oil pastels rely on wax for their pigmentation, they can be difficult to control on a traditional paper surface. As a result, many artists use a dual surface paper that has a smooth side for coloring and a toothy side for blending.

This type of paper provides the perfect level of grip for oil pastels, allowing artists to create beautiful works of art.

While dual surface paper can be more expensive than traditional paper, it is worth the investment for anyone who enjoys working with oil pastels.

Do oil pastels work on regular paper?

Many people believe that oil pastels can only be used on special paper designed for pastels, but this is not the case.

In fact, oil pastels can be used on any type of paper, including regular printer paper.

The key is to use a light touch when applying the pastels, as too much pressure can cause the paper to tear.

Additionally, it is important to choose a high-quality brand of oil pastel, as some lower-end brands may not apply as smoothly.

Can you use Watercolor paper for oil pastels?

Watercolor paper is a popular choice for oil pastels, as it provides a smooth surface that helps to prevent the pastels from feathering or bleeding.

The paper also has a good level of absorbency, which helps to keep the colors saturated and vibrant.

However, watercolor paper is not the only option for oil pastels. Many oil pastel artists prefer to use Bristol board or heavyweight illustration board, as these surfaces provide more tooth or texture for the pastels to grip onto.

Ultimately, it is up to the individual artist to experiment with different types of papers to see what works best for their needs.

Can you use sketchbook paper for oil pastels?

Sketchbook paper is a great option for oil pastels. It is thick enough to support the heavy application of oil pastels, and the texture is ideal for blending and creating smooth transitions of color.

If you are using a high-quality sketchbook paper, it will also be acid-free, which means it will not yellow or degrade over time.

When shopping for sketchbook paper, look for a variety that is specifically designed for oil pastels. This will ensure that you get the best results and that your sketchbook paper will last.

Can you use mixed media paper for oil pastels?

Yes, you can use mixed media paper for oil pastels. Mixed media paper is a type of paper that is specifically designed to be used with multiple mediums, including oil pastels.

This paper is typically thicker and more textured than regular drawing or sketching paper, which helps to prevent the pastels from smudging or being absorbed into the paper.

Mixed media paper is also usually acid-free, which means it won’t yellow or fade over time. So if you’re looking for a versatile surface on which to use your oil pastels, mixed media paper is a great option.

What canvas do you use for oil pastels?

Oil pastels are a versatile medium that can be used on a variety of surfaces. However, not all canvases are equally suitable for oil pastels.

In general, it is best to use a smooth surface that is slightly textured. This will provide enough grip for the pastels to adhere to the canvas while still allowing for smooth blending and shading.

What is the best surface for oil pastels?

There is no single best surface for oil pastels. It really depends on your personal preference and the type of effect you are trying to achieve.

Some oil pastel artists prefer to use smooth surfaces, such as watercolor paper or Bristol board, while others prefer more textured surfaces, such as mixed media paper or heavyweight illustration board.

Ultimately, it is up to the individual artist to experiment with different types of surfaces to see what works best for their needs.

How do you prepare a canvas for oil pastels?

The best way to prepare a canvas for oil pastels is to prime it with a layer of gesso. Gesso is a type of primer that provides a smooth, even surface on which to apply the oil pastels.

It also helps to prevent the pastels from being absorbed into the canvas. Once the gesso is dry, you can begin applying the oil pastels.

If you’re using a mixed media paper or another type of textured surface, you may not need to prime it with gesso. Just make sure the surface is clean and free of any debris before you start working.

What media do you use with oil pastels?

Oil pastels are a versatile medium that can be used on a variety of surfaces.

In addition to traditional paper, oil pastels can also be used on canvas, wood, and even metal. The key is to choose a surface that is smooth and firm so that the pastels will apply evenly.

Some artists even use oil pastels on top of photographs or other images, adding a unique dimension to their work.

No matter what surface you choose, oil pastels offer a rich and vibrant way to add color to your artwork.

What paper is best for blending oil pastels?

The best paper for blending oil pastels is smooth, heavyweight paper with a bit of texture. This type of paper provides enough grip for the pastels to adhere to the surface while still allowing for smooth blending and shading.

Is smooth paper good for oil pastels?

Yes, the best oil pastel paper is often smooth paper -which is good for oil pastels. Smooth paper provides a uniform surface on which to apply the pastels and allows for easy blending and shading.

However, if you’re looking for a more textured effect, you may want to try mixed media paper or another type of textured surface.

Conclusion

So, what is the best paper for oil pastels? The answer to that question may vary depending on your personal preferences and technique.

However, we hope this article has given you a better understanding of the different types of paper available and some tips on how to choose the best one for you.

Have you tried oil pastels on any of these papers? Let us know in the comments below!

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