Whether you’re a seasoned portrait artist or a beginner exploring the world of soft textures and subtle tones, choosing the right pastel pencil can make or break your artwork. With so many brands on the market, artists often find themselves overwhelmed by the options. Which pencil delivers the finest detail? Which one blends best? And most importantly—where can you buy pencils from trusted suppliers who understand the needs of creatives?
This guide will walk you through the top pastel pencil brands, their unique characteristics, and how to source them reliably. From student-grade sets to professional-level tools, we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your artistic goals—and your budget.
Why Choose Pastel Pencils?
Pastel pencils combine the expressive richness of soft pastels with the precision of a pencil. Unlike chalky sticks, they allow for detailed line work, controlled shading, and cleaner handling. Ideal for layering, blending, and fine-tuning highlights, pastel pencils are a staple for illustrators, portrait artists, and anyone working with mixed media.
They’re also less messy than traditional pastels, making them a great choice for artists who work in smaller spaces or on-the-go. The pencil casing protects the pigment core and prevents breakage, offering better longevity and portability.
Top Pastel Pencil Brands Compared
Not all pastel pencils are created equal. Each brand has its own formulation, color range, and feel. Below is a side-by-side comparison of the most recommended pastel pencil brands, based on expert reviews and user feedback.
| Brand | Best For | Core Texture | Color Range | Price Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stabilo CarbOthello | Beginners & Layering | Soft, Blendable | 60+ | Affordable |
| Caran d’Ache Pastel Pencils | Professional Finish | Dense, Durable | 84 | Premium |
| Faber-Castell PITT | Fine Detail Work | Harder Core | 60 | Mid-Range |
| Derwent Pastel Pencils | Unique Color Palette | Chalky, Soft | 72 | Mid-Range |
Stabilo CarbOthello: Affordable and Artist-Friendly
Stabilo’s CarbOthello line is a favorite among both students and professionals for its soft core and vibrant payoff. According to Potato Art Studios, CarbOthello pencils strike a great balance between cost and performance. Their smooth application makes them ideal for layering and blending, especially in the early stages of a drawing.
They also come in a wide range of colors and are water-soluble, allowing for additional versatility. Artists often use them to block in base tones before refining with harder-core pencils.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Excellent for layering and base work
- Water-soluble for mixed media
Cons:
- Soft core may blunt quickly
- Less ideal for ultra-fine details
Caran d’Ache: Premium Quality for Professionals
When it comes to luxury in the pastel pencil world, Caran d’Ache stands out. Built with dense, high-pigment cores and a robust casing, these pencils are designed for serious artists who need consistency and control. Felicity Franks praises their durability and color retention, especially when layering multiple tones.
The slightly harder pastel core resists crumbling, making it easy to maintain a sharp point. This is crucial for achieving crisp edges and refined textures in portraiture and realism.
Pros:
- Superior pigmentation
- Long-lasting core
- Ideal for final layers and fine blending
Cons:
- High cost
- May not suit beginners due to firmness
Faber-Castell PITT: Precision and Detail
Faber-Castell’s PITT pastel pencils are engineered for control. With a harder core than most, they excel in detailed line work, hatching, and crosshatching. Artists who prefer a more structured drawing technique will appreciate the pencil’s ability to hold a point longer without frequent sharpening.
They’re a popular choice for architectural sketches, botanical illustrations, and any work that demands precision. Their muted color palette also suits artists working in naturalistic or subdued tones.
Pros:
- Great for detail and line work
- Durable and easy to sharpen
- Less dust and smudge
Cons:
- Less vibrant than softer brands
- Not ideal for heavy blending
Derwent Pastel Pencils: A Unique Color Spectrum
Derwent’s pastel pencils offer a distinct advantage: a rich and unconventional color palette. Artists looking to experiment with unusual hues or atmospheric effects will find this brand especially rewarding. The core is softer than PITT but a bit firmer than CarbOthello, providing a middle ground that suits a variety of techniques.
As noted by Felicity Franks, Derwent pencils perform well in layered compositions, allowing for subtle transitions and tonal variation. They’re particularly effective in landscape and fantasy art, where color creativity is key.
Pros:
- Wide and unique color range
- Good for blending and layering
- Mid-range price
Cons:
- Slightly more brittle core
- Requires frequent sharpening
Where to Buy Pastel Pencils from Trusted Suppliers
Choosing the right pencil supplier is just as important as selecting your brand. Whether you’re buying in bulk for a studio or sourcing a single set for personal use, reliability and authenticity matter. Here are some recommended options:
- Blick Art Materials – Offers a broad selection of pastel pencils with frequent discounts. Known for fast shipping and excellent customer service.
- Jackson’s Art Supplies – A UK-based supplier with global shipping. Their curated catalog includes professional pastel brands at competitive prices.
- Jerry’s Artarama – Offers bundle deals and artist kits, ideal for students or those looking to build their collection affordably.
- OEM and Wholesale Suppliers – For studios or educational institutions, working directly with a pencil supplier can reduce costs. Look for ISO-certified manufacturers who offer private labeling and consistent quality control.
Ensure the supplier provides proper pigment information, lightfastness ratings, and return policies. For large orders or custom production, request a sample batch to test before committing.
Tips for Using Pastel Pencils Effectively
Even the best tools need the right technique. Here are some workflow tips to get the most out of your pastel pencils:
- Start with Soft Cores: Use Stabilo or Derwent for base layers and broad color fields.
- Build with Harder Cores: Add detail and texture using Faber-Castell or Caran d’Ache.
- Layer Gradually: Avoid pressing too hard early on; let each layer build naturally to retain paper tooth.
- Fixative Use: Use a workable fixative between layers to prevent smudging and preserve vibrancy.
- Sharpen Strategically: Use a knife or sanding block to avoid breakage and maintain point control.
Final Thoughts: Match Your Pencil to Your Purpose
Choosing the best pastel pencil is about more than brand loyalty—it’s about aligning your tools with your technique, subject matter, and budget. Whether you’re layering soft backgrounds, carving out crisp details, or experimenting with color, there’s a pencil that fits your workflow.
For beginners, Stabilo CarbOthello offers a forgiving introduction. Professionals might lean toward Caran d’Ache for its richness and control. And for those who value variety, Derwent’s unique palette opens new creative doors. Just be sure to buy pencils from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and consistency.
Ready to upgrade your toolkit? Explore trusted brands and suppliers today, and take your pastel art to the next level.
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