Color Your World: Top Oil Pastels for Every Artist
For most artists, the Sennelier Oil Pastels stand out as the top pick. They offer exceptionally creamy, pigment-rich application ideal for blending and layering. Their main limitation is a higher price point, making them less ideal for beginners on a budget. Alternatively, the Pentel Arts set provides a student-friendly balance of quality and affordability.
Oil pastels are a versatile medium, offering vibrant colors and smooth blending without the mess of oil paints. Whether you are a seasoned artist or a beginner, the right set can elevate your work.
With countless options on the market, we have narrowed down the top choices to help you find the perfect match for your artistic needs.
The shortlist, ranked
Sennelier Oil Pastels, 24 Assorted Colors
These buttery-soft pastels are crafted with top-grade pigments and a unique binder, delivering intense color and exceptional lightfastness. Owners report effortless blending and a smooth, creamy texture that glides on paper.
Pros
- Extremely creamy and blendable
- High pigment concentration
- Wide range of vivid colors
Cons
- Pricey for beginners
- Softness can lead to breakage if handled roughly
Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, 50 Color Set
A budget-friendly set that does not compromise on quality. These pastels are firm yet smooth, allowing for detailed work and vibrant layers. They are a staple in many classrooms and art programs.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Easy to control for details
- Durable sticks resist breaking
Cons
- Colors may not be as intense as professional brands
- Requires more pressure for heavy layering
Mungyo Gallery Artists Soft Oil Pastels, 48 Colors
These pastels are known for their soft, oil-based consistency that allows for smooth blending and layering. They are acid-free and lightfast, making them suitable for archival work. Users appreciate the rich, velvety finish.
Pros
- Excellent blendability
- Vibrant, high-quality pigments
- Great for layering techniques
Cons
- Softness can lead to quicker consumption
- Some colors may smear if not fixed
Crayola Oil Pastels, 28 Count
A trusted brand for young artists, these pastels are non-toxic and washable. They are sturdy and easy to grip, making them perfect for little hands. The colors are bright and fun, though less refined than artist-grade options.
Pros
- Child-safe and washable
- Durable and resistant to breakage
- Great value for casual use
Cons
- Colors are not as lightfast
- Less creamy, harder texture
Van Gogh Oil Pastels and Chalk, 60 Color Set
This unique set combines oil pastels and chalk pastels, offering flexibility for various techniques. The oil pastels are creamy and blendable, while the chalk provides a different texture for detailing. Ideal for sketching and illustration.
Pros
- Two mediums in one set
- Good pigmentation
- Encourages creative exploration
Cons
- Some users find chalk dusty
- Pastels are relatively short
Paul Rubens Oil Pastels, 24 Colors
Paul Rubens offers an impressive set that rivals higher-end brands at a fraction of the cost. The pastels are soft, creamy, and highly pigmented, making them a favorite among amateur artists. They come in a sturdy tin for protection.
Pros
- Excellent color payoff
- Affordable for the quality
- Smooth application
Cons
- Limited color selection
- Can be crumbly if pressed too hard
Kuelox Oil Pastels, 24 Colors
These pastels are firmer than most, allowing for sharp lines and intricate details. They are ideal for illustrators who need control. The colors are vibrant and blend well when layered.
Pros
- Great control for precision
- Minimal smudging
- Durable sticks
Cons
- Not as creamy for broad blending
- Colors may need layering for intensity
Before you buy
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | Includes | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sennelier Oil Pastels, 24 Assorted Colors | 24 assorted colors | Professional artists seeking premium quality | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, 50 Color Set | 50 assorted colors | Students and hobbyists | 8.8 | Check price |
| 3 | Mungyo Gallery Artists Soft Oil Pastels, 48 Colors | 48 assorted colors | Artists wanting soft, blendable texture | 8.7 | Check price |
| 4 | Crayola Oil Pastels, 28 Count | 28 assorted colors | Kids and beginners | 8.2 | Check price |
| 5 | Van Gogh Oil Pastels and Chalk, 60 Color Set | 60 pieces: 30 oil pastels, 30 chalk pastels | Versatile artists who use mixed media | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | Paul Rubens Oil Pastels, 24 Colors | 24 assorted colors | Artists on a budget who want quality | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | Kuelox Oil Pastels, 24 Colors | 24 assorted colors | Detail work and precise lines | 8.0 | Check price |
Good to know
What are oil pastels?
Oil pastels are sticks of pigment bound by oil and wax. They are similar to crayons but softer and more vibrant, allowing for blending and layering on various surfaces.
How do oil pastels differ from soft pastels?
Soft pastels have a chalky, dry texture and require a fixative to prevent smudging. Oil pastels are creamy and oily, never fully drying, and can be blended with solvents or fingers.
Can I use oil pastels on any paper?
Oil pastels work best on paper with some tooth, like pastel paper or mixed media paper. They can also be used on canvas, wood, and even glass, but ensure the surface is primed.
How do I blend oil pastels?
You can blend with your fingers, a blending stump, or a cotton swab. For smoother results, use a small amount of baby oil or a solvent like turpentine (with proper ventilation).
Are oil pastels permanent?
Oil pastels never completely dry, so they can smudge. To protect your artwork, apply a fixative or frame it under glass.
What is the best way to store oil pastels?
Store them flat in their original box or a sturdy case. Keep them away from heat sources, as they can melt. Avoid stacking them in a way that might cause breakage.
Can oil pastels be used for mixed media?
Yes, they work well with acrylics, watercolors, and inks. Use them over dried media or on top of oil paints, but avoid mixing with water-based products directly.
How do I remove oil pastel stains from clothing?
Scrape off excess, then apply dish soap or a grease-cutting detergent. Rinse with warm water and launder as usual. For stubborn stains, use a pre-treatment spray.
Are oil pastels safe for children?
Many brands offer non-toxic oil pastels labeled for children. Always check for the AP (Approved Product) seal. Adult supervision is recommended for young kids due to potential mess.
What is the difference between student and professional oil pastels?
Professional pastels have higher pigment concentration and softer texture, offering more vibrant colors and better blending. Student pastels are harder, less expensive, and suitable for practice.
The verdict
For the best overall experience, the Sennelier Oil Pastels are the clear winner for serious artists who value color intensity and blendability. If you are starting out or on a budget, the Pentel Arts set offers remarkable value without sacrificing much quality. For a balanced choice, the Mungyo Gallery set provides softness and richness at a mid-range price. Ultimately, select based on your skill level and how much you are willing to invest.
