Tips for Blending Soft Pastels
Blending soft pastels can be a challenging task for both beginner and experienced artists. With their vibrant colors and creamy texture, soft pastels offer a unique and versatile medium for creating stunning artwork. However, achieving smooth and seamless blends can be tricky. Let’s explore some tips and techniques that can help you master the art of blending soft pastels.
Choose the right paper
The choice of paper is crucial when it comes to blending soft pastels. Opt for a paper with a toothy or textured surface, as this allows the pastel pigments to adhere better and blend more easily. Consider using pastel paper, which is specifically designed to hold multiple layers of pastels. Alternatively, you can experiment with sanded pastel paper or toned pastel paper to achieve different effects.
Layering technique
Layering is the key to achieving smooth and blended effects with soft pastels. Start by laying down a light layer of pastel pigment and gradually build up the layers. Use light pressure with the pastels in the initial layers and increase the pressure as you add more layers. This helps to blend the colors together and create a seamless transition.
Blending tools
There are various blending tools that can help you achieve different blending effects with soft pastels. The most commonly used tools include blending stumps, tortillions, and blending brushes. Blending stumps and tortillions are cylindrical tools made of tightly rolled paper or felt. They can be used to blend and smoothen the edges between colors. Blending brushes, on the other hand, are used to create soft and diffused blends by gently brushing over the pastel pigments.
Experiment with different pastel techniques
Soft pastels offer a wide range of techniques that can be used to blend colors. Try experimenting with different techniques to discover what works best for you. Some popular techniques include feathering, scumbling, and dry brush blending. Feathering involves using light, feathery strokes to blend colors together. Scumbling, on the other hand, is achieved by lightly applying layers of pastel pigment over each other in a crosshatch or circular motion. Dry brush blending involves using a dry brush to blend and soften the edges between colors.
Use a fixative
Once you have achieved the desired blend, it is important to protect your artwork from smudging. Spraying a fixative over your finished piece will help to seal and preserve the pastel pigments. Make sure to use a workable fixative that does not alter the colors or textures of your artwork. Apply the fixative in thin, even layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next.
