Drawing with pastels is one of the most rewarding artistic experiences you can have. If you’re just getting started, you can’t go wrong if you follow this basic, step-by-step guide on how to draw with pastels.
First and foremost – the equipment. Gather your supplies: pastels, paper, drawing board, kneaded eraser, cloth and a drawing stick. Your paper should be thick enough to hold the layers of pastel, but allow for some blending to occur. When you’re ready, lay down the paper on your drawing board. It’s also a good idea to place a piece of cloth between the paper and the drawing board to keep from smudging your drawing.
Second – the technique. Starting from the lightest layer of pastels is the key to successful pastel drawings. To achieve this, rub the side of your pastel sticks directly over your paper. Tip: use the lightest color you have on the paper first. You always want to work from light to dark. This is known as ‘block-in’.
Third – the layering. Now comes the fun part! After you have your block-in you can start adding more pastel pigments to build an image. Layer your colors by putting a thin sheet of pastel over your existing area and then gently blend each layer with your finger.
Finally – the details. To bring more depth and contrast to your drawing use finer pastel sticks (or pastel pencils) to add detailed lines and shapes. Be sure to use light, short strokes and build up the intensity gradually.
Now that you have the basics covered, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to get the most out of your pastel drawing. One of the most important is to use different pastel textures to define and shade certain areas of your drawing.
Layer the harder pastels over the softer ones for a richer, more blended effect. You’ll also want to use a kneaded eraser to pick up excess pastel and blend the edges of your drawing.
Pastels are an incredibly versatile art material. Use them dry around the edges and wet in the center for a unique, textured look. Or go back and add highlights with a white pastel after layering the colored pastels.
Creating your own pastel drawings is also a great way to explore texture, color, and depth. With a little practice, you can master the basics of drawing with pastels in no time.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment. Remember that art is all about having fun and letting your creativity flow! Try different techniques, explore different effects and always approach your work with an open mind.
Now that you know the basics of pastel drawing, it’s time to get creative and start exploring. With a keen eye and some practice, you too can recreate beautiful works of art in no time.
Using a good quality paper with the right tools is essential to achieve the best results from your pastel drawings. You should draw on a Heavier weight paper with a smooth, consistent surface and make sure you use a drawing board to keep the paper taut.
You should also invest in quality pastels and use them in your drawings. The right pastels can make a world of difference and help you get the most out of your art.
The best way to get better at drawing with pastels is to practice often. Experiment with different techniques, explore different textures, and try out different compositions. With each piece you create, you’ll gain a greater understanding of how pastels interact with each other and how to create beautiful works of art.
When working with pastels, it’s also important to remember that blending is essential. Use a blending stick or your finger to slowly blend each color layer together and create a unified look.
Finally, remember to have fun. Let your imagination run wild and experiment with different ideas and techniques. And don’t worry if a piece doesn’t turn out the way you wanted – there’s always another chance to redeem yourself.
