Understanding the Problem of Smudging with Soft Pastels
Soft pastel drawings can be a beautiful and expressive art medium, but one common challenge that artists face is the issue of smudging. When working with soft pastels, it is not uncommon for the vibrant colors to transfer onto other areas of the artwork, resulting in a messy and blurred appearance. However, with the right techniques and materials, you can prevent smudging and achieve clean and crisp pastel drawings. In this article, we will explore several strategies to prevent smudging when working with soft pastels.
Choose the Right Paper
The choice of paper can greatly affect the smudging issue when using soft pastels. It is recommended to use a heavyweight paper with a toothy surface. The tooth refers to the texture or grain of the paper, which helps to hold the pastel particles in place. A rougher toothy surface will provide more grip and prevent the pastel from smudging as easily. Consider using pastel-specific papers such as Sennelier Pastel Card or Canson Mi-Teintes, which are designed to work well with soft pastels and minimize smudging.
Use a Fixative
A fixative is a spray solution that can be applied to the surface of a pastel drawing to help set and preserve the colors. It creates a protective layer that prevents the pastel particles from smudging and shifting. When working with soft pastels, it is important to use a fixative specifically designed for pastel artwork. One popular brand is the Sennelier Delacroix Fixative, which is known for its excellent smudge-resistant properties. To use a fixative, simply hold the can a few inches away from the drawing and spray a light layer over the entire surface. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product for the best results.
Layering and Blending Techniques
Layering is an essential technique when working with soft pastels. By building up layers of color, you can create depth and richness in your artwork. However, it is important to be mindful of the order in which you layer the colors to prevent unwanted smudging. Start by applying lighter shades first and gradually add darker colors on top. This way, the lighter colors will have a chance to set and won’t smudge when you add the darker shades. Additionally, blending techniques such as using your fingers, blending stumps, or soft brushes can create smooth transitions between colors without excessive smudging.
Handle Your Artwork Carefully
Soft pastel drawings can be fragile and easily smudged, especially when they are not yet fixed or framed. To prevent accidental smudging, handle your artwork with care. Avoid touching the pastel surface directly and use protective sheets or tissue paper to cover your artwork when it’s not in use. When framing your artwork, use a mat or spacer to keep the glass from touching the surface of the pastel drawing, which can cause smudging.
Experiment and Practice
Preventing smudging when working with soft pastels is a skill that takes practice and experimentation. Every artist has their own techniques and preferences, so it is important to find a method that works best for you. Take the time to experiment with different papers, fixatives, layering, and blending techniques to discover what yields the best results in terms of smudge-resistance. Remember that it is okay to make mistakes and learn from them. With practice, you can develop your own style and overcome the challenges of smudging in soft pastel drawings.
