Beginner Pastels That Make Your First Strokes Feel Right
The Mungyo Gallery Soft Oil Pastels are the top pick for beginners because they are creamy, richly pigmented, and widely praised for their smooth laydown, though they can be a bit crumbly if pressed too hard.
Pastels let you draw with pure color and blend with your fingers, making them one of the most satisfying mediums to start with. But the variety of brands and types can be confusing for someone just beginning.
We looked at soft pastels, oil pastels, and pastel pencils to find sets that offer good value, clear labeling, and smooth application. The list below focuses on options that help you learn techniques without frustration.
What matters most
The best picks, ranked
Mungyo Gallery Soft Oil Pastels, 48 Colors
These oil pastels from Mungyo are a favorite among art students and hobbyists. They have a creamy texture that glides onto paper, making them easy to layer and blend. The colors are bold and true to their labels. Some users note that the sticks can break if you press too hard, but that’s common with soft pastels. The set comes in a sturdy box with a foam insert to keep colors organized.
Pros
- Very creamy and easy to blend
- Rich, vibrant pigments
- Good value for the number of colors
Cons
- Can crumble if pressed too hard
- Some users wish for a wider color range
Sennelier Soft Pastel Half-Stick Set, 30 Colors
Sennelier is a legendary name in pastels, and this half-stick set offers a taste of that quality without a huge investment. The pastels are extremely soft and pigmented, almost like painting with pure color. They blend beautifully and are less chalky than some other brands. Because they are half-sticks, you get more colors for the price. Some users report that they are delicate and can break easily, but that is the trade-off for their softness.
Pros
- Exceptional color intensity
- Smooth, buttery application
- Includes a range of essential colors
Cons
- Very soft, can be messy
- Price per stick is higher than student sets
Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, 50 Color Set
Pentel’s oil pastels are a staple in schools and homes. They are firmer than Mungyo, which makes them less likely to smear accidentally. The colors are bright and easy to layer. The set includes a wide range of shades, including some metallics. They are durable and can withstand a bit of pressure, making them ideal for kids or those who tend to draw heavily. The storage case is simple but functional.
Pros
- Durable and less breakage
- Bright, consistent colors
- Great for heavy-handed beginners
Cons
- Less creamy than premium brands
- Some colors are hard to blend completely
Faber-Castell Creative Studio Soft Pastels, 24 Colors
Faber-Castell is known for quality art supplies, and their soft pastels are no exception. These sticks are firmer than Sennelier but still soft enough to blend easily. They produce less dust, which is a plus for indoor use. The color selection is curated for landscapes and portraits. Each stick is individually wrapped to keep your hands clean. They are a good middle ground between student and artist grade.
Pros
- Less dusty than other soft pastels
- Firm enough for fine details
- Individually wrapped for cleanliness
Cons
- Color range is limited to 24
- Some users find them too hard for broad strokes
Prismacolor Premier NuPastel, 36 Color Set
NuPastel sticks are unique because they are hard pastels that can be sharpened to a point. They are excellent for detailed work and drawing on their side for broad areas. They produce less dust and are very clean to use. Beginners who want to try pastel pencils might find these easier to control. The color range is extensive and includes many earth tones. They are not as blendable as soft pastels, but they are perfect for crisp lines.
Pros
- Can be sharpened for fine details
- Very clean with minimal dust
- Great for controlled drawing
Cons
- Not as soft or blendable as other types
- Require more pressure to deposit color
Stabilo CarbOthello Pastel Pencils, 24 Count
Pastel pencils combine the control of a pencil with the vibrancy of pastel. Stabilo CarbOthello pencils are a popular choice because they are creamy and have a good pigment load. They are ideal for detailed work and can be blended with a brush or finger. This set includes 24 assorted colors. Some users note that the leads are soft and can break if sharpened too aggressively, but with a gentle hand they work well.
Pros
- Excellent for fine details and outlines
- Less messy than traditional pastels
- Easy to control pressure
Cons
- Less coverage for large areas
- Leads are fragile if not handled carefully
Van Gogh Soft Pastels, 60 Color Set
Van Gogh is a middle-range brand that offers many colors at an accessible price. This 60-color set gives you a vast palette, which is great for experimenting. The pastels are medium-soft, striking a balance between blendability and control. They produce moderate dust. The set comes in a sturdy wooden box with a layer of protective foam. Some users mention that the sticks can be a bit chalky, but they are easy to work with.
Pros
- Huge range of colors
- Medium softness suits most techniques
- Attractive storage box
Cons
- Can be chalky and dusty
- Some colors are lighter than expected
Side by side
| # | Model | Type | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mungyo Gallery Soft Oil Pastels, 48 Colors | Oil pastels | Overall best for beginners | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Sennelier Soft Pastel Half-Stick Set, 30 Colors | Soft pastels (half-sticks) | Best for those who want artist-grade quality | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, 50 Color Set | Oil pastels | Best for young beginners or classroom use | 8.7 | Check price |
| 4 | Faber-Castell Creative Studio Soft Pastels, 24 Colors | Soft pastels | Best for those who prefer a slightly firmer soft pastel | 8.5 | Check price |
| 5 | Prismacolor Premier NuPastel, 36 Color Set | Hard pastels | Best for those who like precise, hard pastels | 8.2 | Check price |
| 6 | Stabilo CarbOthello Pastel Pencils, 24 Count | Pastel pencils | Best for beginners who want the feel of a pencil | 8.0 | Check price |
| 7 | Van Gogh Soft Pastels, 60 Color Set | Soft pastels | Best for those who want a large color selection | 8.9 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between soft and oil pastels?
Soft pastels are dry and chalky, while oil pastels are waxy and buttery. Soft pastels blend easily with fingers and are better for layering. Oil pastels never fully dry and can be blended even later. They also create less dust.
How many colors should a beginner start with?
A set of 24 to 48 colors is a good start. It provides a variety of shades without being overwhelming. You can always expand your collection later.
Can I use regular paper for pastels?
It is best to use textured paper that can grip the pastel. Regular printer paper is too smooth and will not hold the pigment well. Look for pastel paper or watercolor paper.
Do I need a fixative?
Fixative protects your finished pastel from smudging and keeps the pigment in place. It is recommended, especially if you plan to frame or transport your work.
Are expensive pastels worth it for beginners?
Expensive pastels often have higher pigment concentration and better binding, making them more vibrant and easier to blend. However, many affordable sets perform well for learning. You can upgrade later as you improve.
How do I clean pastel dust from my workspace?
Pastel dust can be wiped with a damp cloth or a soft brush. Some artists use a vacuum with a brush attachment. To minimize dust, you can work on a slight incline so dust falls away from your drawing.
Can I mix brands of pastels?
Yes, you can mix different brands, but note that hardness and softness vary. Harder pastels are good for details, while softer ones are good for layering. Combining them can give you more creative options.
What is the best way to blend pastels?
You can blend with your fingers, a blending stump, or a soft cloth. Some artists use a brush for a softer effect. Experiment to find what works best for you.
Why do my pastels break easily?
Soft pastels are fragile by nature. If you press too hard, they will crumble. Hold them near the middle and use gentle strokes. Some brands are softer than others and break more easily.
Are pastels safe for kids?
Most pastels are non-toxic, but they can be messy. Oil pastels are generally less dusty and are often used in schools. Always supervise young children and ensure they wash their hands after use.
Final word
For most beginners, the Mungyo Gallery Soft Oil Pastels offer the best balance of quality, ease of use, and price. If you prefer a drier medium and want to learn traditional soft pastel techniques, the Sennelier half-stick set is an excellent investment, while the Pentel oil pastels are a smart budget pick for kids and casual users.
