For artists who crave the soft, blendable texture of pastels but need the control of a pencil, pastel pencils offer the perfect middle ground. Whether you’re working on intricate portraits or expressive landscapes, the right pastel pencil can elevate your work from good to gallery-worthy. But with so many brands on the market, how do you know which ones are worth your investment?
In this guide, we break down the top pastel pencil brands that artists consistently recommend. Backed by hands-on reviews and expert insights, this article will help you decide which pencils to buy—and where to find a reliable pencil supplier when you’re ready to stock up.
Why Choose Pastel Pencils?
Pastel pencils combine the rich pigment of traditional soft pastels with the precision of a pencil. They’re ideal for:
- Creating detailed drawings with vibrant color
- Layering and blending without the mess of chalk pastels
- Working on textured paper or toned surfaces
- Artists who want more control in their pastel work
Because they’re encased in wood, pastel pencils are less prone to breakage and easier to handle than soft pastel sticks. However, not all pastel pencils are created equal. Let’s explore the brands that stand out in terms of color payoff, durability, and versatility.
1. Caran d’Ache Pastel Pencils – Premium Quality, Premium Price
Swiss-made Caran d’Ache pastel pencils are often considered the gold standard for professional artists. With a buttery soft core and intense pigmentation, these pencils glide across textured paper effortlessly.
According to Potato Art Studios, Caran d’Ache offers a luxurious drawing experience. The pencils are easy to layer and blend, making them ideal for complex compositions or large-scale work. The color range is also impressive, with 84 shades available individually or in curated sets.
| Feature | Caran d’Ache Pastel Pencils |
|---|---|
| Core Texture | Very soft, buttery |
| Color Intensity | Extremely vibrant |
| Lightfastness | High |
| Price Point | Premium |
Pros: Exceptional blendability, rich pigment, wide color range
Cons: Expensive, softer cores may wear down quickly
2. Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils – The Detail Artist’s Best Friend
When it comes to achieving fine lines and intricate shading, Faber-Castell’s Pitt pastel pencils are a top contender. These German-made pencils feature a harder pastel core, making them ideal for precise work without sacrificing color vibrancy.
As Felicity Franks notes, the Pitt series is particularly well-suited for portrait artists. The harder core allows for greater control when drawing hair, facial features, and other detailed elements. And with 60 colors available, there’s enough variety to support both monochromatic and full-color work.
Pros: Excellent for detail, durable core, minimal dust
Cons: Slightly less blendable than softer brands
3. Stabilo CarbOthello – Bold Color Meets Versatility
Stabilo’s CarbOthello line is a favorite among artists who want bold, expressive color without sacrificing layering capabilities. These pastel pencils are semi-soft, striking a balance between blendability and control.
According to Potato Art Studios, CarbOthello pencils work well both dry and wet. Yes, you can activate them with water for a watercolor-like effect, adding another layer of versatility to your toolkit. The 60-color range is rich and varied, with excellent coverage even on dark papers.
Pros: Water-soluble, vibrant color, good for layering
Cons: Softer core may require frequent sharpening
4. Derwent Pastel Pencils – A Balanced Choice for Beginners
UK-based Derwent offers a well-rounded pastel pencil that’s ideal for artists just getting into the medium. The core is softer than Faber-Castell’s but firmer than Caran d’Ache, making it a good middle-ground option.
Derwent’s pastel pencils are praised for their smooth application and decent color payoff. While the color range is slightly more muted compared to other brands, it’s still sufficient for most artistic needs. Their affordability also makes them a great starting point for students or hobbyists.
Pros: Budget-friendly, easy to use, decent color intensity
Cons: Less vibrant than premium brands, limited layering
5. Conte à Paris – The Classic French Touch
Conte pastel pencils have a long-standing reputation in the art world, particularly among figure and portrait artists. These pencils are known for their earthy tones and excellent control, making them ideal for sketching and tonal studies.
While the color range is not as broad (around 48 shades), the quality of the pigment and the pencil’s tactile feel make them a favorite for traditionalists. Conte’s slightly firmer core allows for both shading and detailing, especially on textured paper.
Pros: Great for tonal work, classic feel, good control
Cons: Limited color range, less vibrant than others
Comparison Table: Top Pastel Pencil Brands
| Brand | Core Hardness | Color Range | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caran d’Ache | Very soft | 84 | Professional blending and layering | High |
| Faber-Castell Pitt | Hard | 60 | Detail work, portraits | Medium |
| Stabilo CarbOthello | Semi-soft | 60 | Versatility, mixed media | Medium |
| Derwent | Medium | 72 | Beginners, general use | Low–Medium |
| Conte à Paris | Hard | 48 | Figure drawing, sketching | Low |
Where to Buy Pencils and Source Supplies
Once you’ve chosen your preferred brand, the next step is sourcing your materials. If you’re an individual artist, reputable online art stores like Jackson’s Art, Blick, or Jerry’s Artarama are reliable options. For bulk purchases or studio supply, working directly with a pencil supplier or art distributor can offer better pricing and availability.
For those in need of OEM or white-label pastel pencils, consider reaching out to manufacturers in Europe or Asia that specialize in art materials. Many offer custom branding, packaging, and formulation options for art supply brands or studios looking to create their own line of pastel pencils.
Tips for Using Pastel Pencils Effectively
- Use textured paper (like sanded or velour) to maximize pigment adhesion.
- Sharpen with a craft knife rather than a standard sharpener to avoid core breakage.
- Fixative spray can help preserve layers, but test it first—some brands react differently.
- Combine with soft pastels for background work and pastel pencils for detail.
Final Thoughts: Invest in the Right Tools
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just exploring pastel mediums, choosing the right pastel pencil brand can dramatically influence your creative output. From the luxurious feel of Caran d’Ache to the precision of Faber-Castell Pitt, each brand offers unique advantages tailored to different styles and needs.
Don’t just buy what’s popular—consider how each pencil’s texture, pigment, and performance align with your workflow. And when you’re ready to buy pencils, choose a supplier that understands the importance of quality and consistency in art materials.
For more insights and brand breakdowns, check out these helpful resources:
Great art begins with great tools. Choose wisely, and your pencils will do half the work for you.
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