Why Pastel Pencils Are Essential for Artists
Pastel pencils combine the expressive, vibrant qualities of soft pastels with the control and convenience of a pencil. They’re particularly popular among portrait artists and illustrators who need precision without sacrificing pigment intensity. Unlike traditional colored pencils, pastel pencils are made with a chalky binder, making them blendable, erasable, and ideal for layering tones.
But not all pastel pencils are created equal. Factors like core hardness, pigment load, blendability, and casing quality vary significantly by brand. As such, knowing which brands perform best in real-world use is crucial before you buy pencils for your next project.
Top Pastel Pencil Brands Compared
Based on expert reviews and hands-on experience from artists, these five brands consistently rank among the best in the pastel pencil category:
- Caran d’Ache Pastel Pencils
- Stabilo CarbOthello
- Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils
- Derwent Pastel Pencils
- Conté à Paris Pastel Pencils
Each of these brands brings something unique to the table. Let’s break them down by performance, usability, and value.
Caran d’Ache Pastel Pencils: Premium Performance
Swiss-made Caran d’Ache pastel pencils are widely regarded as a premium choice. With a rich pigment load and buttery smooth application, they’re ideal for artists who demand color vibrancy and effortless layering. The core is slightly softer than most, making it perfect for blending but more prone to breakage if dropped.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Core Texture | Soft, creamy |
| Color Range | 84 colors |
| Blendability | Excellent |
| Best For | Portraits, fine art, soft transitions |
As noted in Potato Art Studios’ review, Caran d’Ache pencils excel in creating subtle gradients and lifelike skin tones, making them a go-to for portrait artists. However, their higher price point may be a barrier for hobbyists.
Stabilo CarbOthello: Versatile and Vibrant
Stabilo’s CarbOthello line is one of the most versatile pastel pencil options on the market. With a harder core and extensive color range, these pencils strike a balance between detail work and soft shading. They’re also water-soluble, which adds another layer of creative flexibility.
According to Felicity Franks Portraits, CarbOthello pencils are especially useful for artists who work in layers and need reliable color consistency across different styles.
- Pros: Affordable, large color range, excellent for mixed media
- Cons: Slightly less pigmented than softer brands
These pencils are a solid choice if you’re looking to buy pencils that offer both utility and affordability.
Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils: Precision Meets Pigment
Faber-Castell’s Pitt Pastel Pencils are known for their durability and precision. The core is harder than most, which makes them ideal for fine details and sharp edges. While their blendability is slightly lower than softer brands, they excel in underdrawings and intricate work.
These pencils are encased in a thick, break-resistant barrel that protects the core—perfect for artists who travel or work outdoors. The pigment quality is high, though the color range is more limited compared to Stabilo or Caran d’Ache.
Artists who prioritize structure and control in their work often favor Pitt Pastels for their clean lines and minimal dust production.
Derwent Pastel Pencils: Balanced and Beginner-Friendly
Derwent’s pastel pencils offer a middle-ground experience—soft enough for blending, yet firm enough for controlled strokes. They’re often recommended for beginners due to their affordability and balanced performance.
However, some artists note that Derwent’s colors are a bit more muted, which may not suit every style. That said, they hold their own in sketching, landscapes, and tonal studies.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, decent softness, good for layering
- Cons: Less vibrant, occasional breakage during sharpening
Looking to experiment before committing to a premium set? Derwent is a reliable entry point.
Conté à Paris: Classic French Quality
Conté à Paris pastel pencils are a staple among traditional artists. Made in France, they offer a unique balance of chalkiness and pigment density. Their cores are slightly harder, making them suitable for hatching and textured effects rather than smooth blends.
These pencils are often used in life drawing and figure studies due to their expressive line quality. While the color range is more limited, the earthy tones are particularly well-suited for classical techniques.
If you’re an artist who appreciates old-world quality and tactile control, Conté pencils are worth a try.
Quick Comparison Table
| Brand | Softness | Color Range | Blendability | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caran d’Ache | Very Soft | 84 | ★★★★★ | Portraits, Fine Art |
| Stabilo CarbOthello | Medium | 60+ | ★★★★☆ | Mixed Media, Sketching |
| Faber-Castell Pitt | Hard | 60 | ★★★☆☆ | Detail Work, Line Art |
| Derwent | Medium | 72 | ★★★☆☆ | Beginners, Layering |
| Conté à Paris | Hard | 48 | ★★★☆☆ | Life Drawing, Texture |
What to Consider Before You Buy Pastel Pencils
Before you buy pencils for your studio or sketch kit, consider the following factors:
- Art Style: Do you need soft blending for portraits or crisp lines for architectural sketches?
- Budget: Premium brands offer superior performance but come at a cost.
- Availability: Not all brands are readily available in every region. Check with your local pencil supplier.
- Durability: Softer cores break more easily, especially during sharpening or travel.
- Compatibility: If you mix media (e.g., watercolor or ink), choose pencils that can handle layering.
Where to Buy Quality Pastel Pencils
When sourcing pastel pencils, it’s crucial to work with a reliable pencil supplier. Look for vendors who specialize in fine art materials and can guarantee product authenticity. Online art stores like Jackson’s Art Supplies, Blick, and Jerry’s Artarama are trusted sources, especially for international brands.
For bulk purchases or OEM inquiries, consider contacting manufacturers directly. Brands like Faber-Castell and Derwent offer wholesale options for art schools and studios.
Final Thoughts: The Right Pastel Pencil for You
Choosing the best pastel pencil brand depends on your artistic goals, technique, and budget. If you’re after luxurious color and blendability, Caran d’Ache is hard to beat. For versatility and value, Stabilo CarbOthello is a standout. And if precision is your priority, Faber-Castell Pitt delivers clean, detailed results.
Ultimately, the best way to find your favorite is to sample a few brands and see how they respond to your hand and style. With the right tools, your creativity will flourish—and your artwork will show it.
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