Oil pastels are a popular medium for artists due to their versatility and vibrant colors. However, to achieve the best results, it’s crucial to use the right paper. The best paper for oil pastels should be able to hold the pigment without smudging or flaking, and provide a smooth surface for blending and layering.
When choosing paper for oil pastels, there are a few critical factors to consider. The weight of the paper is essential, as it affects how much pigment the paper can hold without buckling or tearing. The texture of the paper is also crucial, as it can affect the final outcome of the artwork. A rougher texture may be better for creating texture and depth, while a smoother surface is ideal for blending and layering.
After researching and testing various options, we have identified the top paper choices for oil pastels. These papers offer the ideal weight and texture for achieving stunning results with oil pastels.
Best Papers for Oil Pastels
We have researched and tested various papers to bring you the best options for oil pastel artists. The right paper can make a significant difference in the final outcome of your artwork. We have considered factors such as texture, weight, and durability to create a list of the top papers for oil pastels. Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist, our roundup has something for everyone. Without further ado, here are the best papers for oil pastels.
1. Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad
If you’re looking for the best paper for oil pastels, the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- 9″x12″ Glue Bound
- 24 Sheets per Pad
Cons
- Not ideal for thick layers of pigment
- Some users may find the texture too rough
- Some colors may be too light for certain projects
We’ve used the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad for a variety of pastel projects and have been consistently impressed with the quality of the paper. The glue binding makes it easy to remove pages, and the subtle colors and textured finish provide a great surface for oil pastels, as well as soft or hard pastels.
One of the standout features of this paper is its superior sheet formation and harder surface, which allows for a wider range of media and styles. We’ve also appreciated the variety of sizes available, including 9×12 inches, 11×14 inches, and 18×24 inches.
While the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad may not be ideal for those who prefer sanded paper, we’ve found that it works well for most projects. However, it’s important to note that this paper may not be suitable for those looking to create thick layers of pigment. Additionally, some users may find the texture too rough for their liking.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality paper for oil pastels, the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is definitely worth considering. With its superior sheet formation, subtle colors, and textured finish, it’s a great choice for advanced artists and beginners alike.
2. Floit Papelsino Sketchbook
If you’re looking for a high-quality sketchbook for oil pastels, the Floit Papelsino Sketchbook is a great option.
Pros
- The vellum surface is perfect for dry media like oil pastels, colored pencils, and pencil drawings.
- The heavyweight paper is thick and durable, which means it can handle a lot of layering and blending without tearing or smudging.
- The off-white color of the paper provides a nice contrast to the bright colors of the oil pastels.
Cons
- The price point is a bit higher than some other sketchbooks on the market, but the quality of the paper is worth it.
- The binding is a bit stiff, which can make it difficult to lay the sketchbook flat.
- The paper is not suitable for wet media like watercolors or acrylics.
We recently tried out the Floit Papelsino Sketchbook for a few oil pastel projects, and we were impressed with the quality of the paper. The vellum surface provided just the right amount of tooth to hold the pastel without smudging, and the heavyweight paper allowed us to layer and blend colors without worrying about the paper tearing or buckling.
One thing to note is that the binding is a bit stiff, which can make it difficult to lay the sketchbook flat. However, this is a minor issue that doesn’t detract from the overall quality of the sketchbook.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality sketchbook for oil pastels, the Floit Papelsino Sketchbook is definitely worth considering. It’s a bit pricier than some other options, but the quality of the paper makes it a worthwhile investment for serious artists.
3. Sennelier Oil Pastel Pad
We highly recommend the Sennelier Oil Pastel Pad for any oil pastelist looking for a high-quality paper that can withstand direct application of oil pastels without seeping, bleeding through, or haloing on the paper.
Pros
- The machine-made, bright white paper is acid-free and heavyweight, making it ideal for oil pastel work.
- The textured surface provides unsurpassed performance for oil pastel, allowing for excellent color adhesion and blending.
- The protective interleaved glassine sheets and top-side spiral binding make it easy to work with and protect your artwork.
Cons
- The pad is smaller than expected at 6.25″ x 9.5″.
- The paper is very absorbent, making it difficult to work on for some artists.
- The price point is higher compared to other oil pastel papers on the market.
We were impressed with the Sennelier Oil Pastel Pad’s ability to handle oil pastels without any issues. The paper’s texture allowed for excellent color adhesion and blending, while the interleaved glassine sheets and spiral binding made it easy to work with and protect our artwork. However, the smaller size and absorbency of the paper may not be suitable for all artists. Overall, we believe the Sennelier Oil Pastel Pad is a great investment for any oil pastelist looking for high-quality paper that can handle direct application of oil pastels.
4. Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad
If you’re looking for a reliable paper for oil pastels, Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is a great option that is worth considering.
Pros
- The textured finish of the paper is perfect for oil pastel.
- The subtle colors of the paper make the artwork stand out.
- The paper is also suitable for soft or hard pastel.
Cons
- Some users reported that the paper is not rough enough for pastels.
- A few users found it difficult to get deep blues on the paper.
- The paper doesn’t grab soft pastels as much as some users would like.
In our experience, Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is a great choice for oil pastel artists. The paper’s texture provides a good surface for blending and layering colors. The subtle colors of the paper also enhance the artwork, making it more vibrant and eye-catching.
One of the downsides of this paper is that it may not be rough enough for some users. Additionally, a few users reported difficulty getting deep blues on the paper. However, these issues do not seem to be significant enough to deter most artists from using this paper.
Overall, we believe that Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is a reliable and high-quality paper that is worth considering for oil pastel artwork.
5. MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad A4 Size for Oil Pastel, Dry Pastel 30 Sheets (Dark Assorted)
If you’re looking for a paper pad that is perfect for oil pastels, dry pastels, and more, then the MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad is a great choice.
Pros
- The woven textured finish of the paper pad provides a unique and interesting surface for your pastel work.
- The paper pad is acid-free, which means that it won’t yellow or deteriorate over time.
- With 30 sheets in the pad, you’ll have plenty of paper to work with.
Cons
- Some users report that the surface of the paper is too rough, which can make blending difficult.
- The dark assorted colors may not be suitable for all artwork.
- The paper pad may not be suitable for all types of pastels, depending on your preferences.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad, and we were impressed with its quality. The woven textured finish of the paper provides a unique surface that adds depth and interest to your pastel work. We found that the paper was easy to work with, and it held the pastel well without smudging or smearing.
One thing to keep in mind is that the surface of the paper is quite rough, which may not be to everyone’s liking. If you prefer a smoother surface for your pastel work, you may want to consider a different paper pad. Additionally, the dark assorted colors of the paper may not be suitable for all types of artwork, so be sure to consider your preferences before making a purchase.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad to anyone looking for a high-quality paper pad for their pastel work. With its unique texture and acid-free construction, it’s a great choice for artists of all skill levels.
6. Floit Toned Gray & Tan Sketchbook Paper Pad
We highly recommend the Floit Toned Gray & Tan Sketchbook Paper Pad for those looking for the best paper for oil pastels.
Pros
- The four beautiful colors of paper make your drawing stand out no matter what color you put on it.
- The toned gray and tan paper is perfect for diverse art materials such as oil pastels, colored pencils, and charcoal drawing.
- The 40-sheet pad is a stunning choice for those who have found a gray or tan sketchbook and want to use four colors together.
Cons
- The paper is thin and may not hold up well with wet media.
- The 7.2 x 10 inch size may be too small for some artists.
- The paper may tear easily if handled roughly.
We have used the Floit Toned Gray & Tan Sketchbook Paper Pad for oil pastel drawings and found it to be an excellent choice. The paper has a good tooth while being low enough in texture to get smooth shading. The toned gray and tan colors provide a beautiful background for the oil pastels, making the colors pop.
The 40-sheet pad is perfect for those who want to experiment with different techniques and colors. The paper is also suitable for colored pencils and charcoal drawing, making it a versatile choice for artists.
However, the paper is thin and may not hold up well with wet media. The 7.2 x 10 inch size may also be too small for some artists who prefer larger paper sizes. Additionally, the paper may tear easily if handled roughly.
Overall, we highly recommend the Floit Toned Gray & Tan Sketchbook Paper Pad for those looking for the best paper for oil pastels. It is a versatile and beautiful choice that will make your artwork stand out.
7. Ctosree 100 Sheets Oil Pastel Paper
We highly recommend the Ctosree 100 Sheets Oil Pastel Paper for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile paper for their oil pastels.
Pros
- The package comes with 100 sheets of paper in four different colors, making it a practical choice for those who want to experiment with different color combinations.
- The paper has a thickness of 180G/98lb and is 5 x 7 inches in size, which is convenient and simple to use. You can also change the size of the paper depending on your needs.
- The paper is made of quality materials that are smooth for you to draw on and do not easily break, ensuring it can serve you for a long time.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the kraft-colored paper is warped, which can be a bit of a hassle when using it.
- The paper may not be suitable for those who prefer a heavier or thicker paper texture.
- The neutral colors may not be ideal for those who want more vibrant or varied color options.
The Ctosree 100 Sheets Oil Pastel Paper is a great choice for those who want a reliable and versatile paper for their oil pastels. The package comes with 100 sheets of paper in four different colors, making it a practical choice for those who want to experiment with different color combinations. The paper has a thickness of 180G/98lb and is 5 x 7 inches in size, which is convenient and simple to use. You can also change the size of the paper depending on your needs.
The paper is made of quality materials that are smooth for you to draw on and do not easily break, ensuring it can serve you for a long time. The paper is also suitable for use with graphite pencils, charcoal, and sketch sticks, providing you with a nice using experience. However, some users have reported that the kraft-colored paper is warped, which can be a bit of a hassle when using it. Additionally, the paper may not be suitable for those who prefer a heavier or thicker paper texture. The neutral colors may not be ideal for those who want more vibrant or varied color options.
Overall, the Ctosree 100 Sheets Oil Pastel Paper is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile paper for their oil pastels. Its practical color collocations, proper size, and reliable paper materials make it a great option for both adults and students alike.
8. Paul Rubens Art Supplies Drawing Paper
If you’re looking for a high-quality paper that is ideal for oil pastel artworks, Paul Rubens Art Supplies Drawing Paper is a great option.
Pros
- The paper is smooth enough for an oil pastel painting of clean application and correction, the texture is fine for better picture appearance.
- It is an acid-free, high-quality paper that is ideal for oil pastel artworks. It’s also strong enough to hold and build color.
- The texture of the paper is fine, the paper is smooth, the colors will be bright on the paper which make it easy to build and layer different oil pastel shades.
Cons
- The paper size is A5, which may be too small for some artists.
- The paper is not suitable for watercolor or acrylic paints.
- The paper may not be suitable for heavy layering.
We’ve used this paper for several oil pastel artworks and have found it to be of great quality. The paper is smooth, with a fine texture that makes it easy to apply and correct oil pastel colors. The colors appear bright and vibrant on the paper, making it easy to build and layer different shades. We also appreciate that the paper is acid-free, which helps to preserve the artwork over time.
One downside to this paper is that it comes in A5 size, which may be too small for some artists who prefer larger canvases. Additionally, the paper is not suitable for watercolor or acrylic paints, so it may not be the best choice if you want to experiment with different mediums. Finally, the paper may not be suitable for heavy layering, as it may not hold up well under too many layers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality paper that is ideal for oil pastel artworks, Paul Rubens Art Supplies Drawing Paper is a great choice. It’s smooth, easy to work with, and produces vibrant colors that will make your artwork pop.
9. Bachmore Drawing Pad
If you want a drawing pad that can accommodate both wet and dry media, Bachmore Drawing Pad is a great choice.
Pros
- The top spiral design allows for easy flipping of pages and makes it friendly for both left-handed and right-handed users.
- The acid-free paper is thick, strong, slick-smooth, and durable, making it suitable for all dry and wet media.
- The hardbound cover protects your artwork from damage and keeps it safe.
Cons
- The paper may not be as smooth as some users prefer.
- The paper may bleed through with some wet media.
- The color of the paper may not be pure white, which may affect the final output of some artworks.
We have used this drawing pad for our art projects, and we can confidently recommend it to both professionals and amateurs. The paper quality is excellent, and it can handle a wide range of media, including oil pastels. The top spiral design makes it easy to use, and the hardbound cover protects your artwork from damage.
The paper is thick and strong, making it suitable for both wet and dry media. The acid-free paper ensures that your artwork does not yellow over time. The hardbound cover is handmade and protects your artwork from damage. The size of the drawing pad is perfect for most art projects.
However, the paper may not be as smooth as some users prefer, and it may bleed through with some wet media. The color of the paper may not be pure white, which may affect the final output of some artworks.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a drawing pad that can accommodate both wet and dry media, Bachmore Drawing Pad is a great choice. The pros outweigh the cons, and it is a great value for the price.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best paper for oil pastels, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend taking the following factors into account:
1. Texture
Texture is an important consideration when choosing paper for oil pastels. A rougher surface will hold more pigment and allow for more blending, while a smoother surface will create sharper lines and a more controlled application. Consider the effect you want to achieve and choose a paper with a texture that will help you achieve it.
2. Weight
The weight of the paper is another important factor to consider. A heavier weight paper will be more durable and less likely to buckle or tear when wet, while a lighter weight paper may be more affordable and easier to work with. Keep in mind that heavier weight paper may require more pigment to achieve the desired effect.
3. Size
The size of the paper is also an important consideration. Larger sheets will allow for more freedom of movement and the ability to create larger works of art, while smaller sheets may be more practical for travel or quick sketches. Consider the size of your workspace and the scale of your work when choosing a paper size.
4. Quality
Finally, consider the overall quality of the paper. Look for acid-free, archival quality paper that will resist fading and yellowing over time. A high-quality paper will also be less likely to bleed or smudge, allowing for more precise and detailed work.
By considering these factors when choosing paper for oil pastels, you can ensure that you select a product that will meet your needs and help you achieve your artistic vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the recommended paper for oil pastels?
The recommended paper for oil pastels is one that has a heavy weight and a rough surface texture. This helps the pastels adhere to the paper and prevents smudging.
2. What is the difference between oil pastel paper and other types of paper?
Oil pastel paper is specifically designed to handle the unique properties of oil pastels. It has a heavier weight and a rougher surface texture than other types of paper. This allows the pastels to adhere to the paper and prevents smudging.
3. What is the ideal GSM for oil pastel paper?
The ideal GSM for oil pastel paper is around 140-160. This weight is heavy enough to handle the pastels without tearing or smudging, but not so heavy that it becomes difficult to work with.
4. What are the benefits of using Sennelier Oil Pastel Paper?
Sennelier Oil Pastel Paper is specifically designed for use with oil pastels. It has a high-quality surface texture that allows for easy blending and layering of colors. The paper is also acid-free and pH neutral, which ensures that your artwork will last for years without yellowing or fading.
5. What surface texture is best for oil pastels?
A rough surface texture is best for oil pastels. This allows the pastels to adhere to the paper and prevents smudging. The texture should be consistent throughout the entire sheet of paper to ensure even application of color.
6. Can mixed media paper be used for oil pastels?
Mixed media paper can be used for oil pastels, but it may not provide the best results. The paper may not be heavy enough to handle the pastels and may smudge or tear. Additionally, the surface texture may not be rough enough to allow the pastels to adhere to the paper properly. It’s best to use paper that is specifically designed for oil pastels.
