In this guide, we’ll break down the top pastel pencil brands based on expert reviews, artist experiences, and manufacturing quality. We’ll also look at how to evaluate pencil suppliers and what to consider when purchasing in bulk or for professional use. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or sourcing for a studio or store, this article will help you make an informed, confident choice.
What Makes a Great Pastel Pencil?
Pastel pencils are a hybrid between traditional colored pencils and soft pastels. They offer the precision of a pencil with the expressive, blendable texture of pastels. But not all pastel pencils are created equal. The best ones combine:
- High pigment concentration for vibrant color payoff
- Blendability on textured paper
- Break-resistant cores and consistent sharpening
- Lightfastness for archival-quality work
Artists often look for a balance between softness (for blending) and hardness (for detail). The right pastel pencil will depend on your drawing style, surface preference, and whether you’re layering or working alla prima.
Top Pastel Pencil Brands Worth Your Investment
Based on a synthesis of expert reviews and artist feedback, here are the leading pastel pencil brands to consider when you’re ready to buy pencils that deliver performance and reliability.
| Brand | Key Strengths | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel | Excellent blendability, robust core, versatile | All skill levels, mixed media use |
| Caran d’Ache Pastel Pencils | High pigment load, creamy texture, premium finish | Professional artists, fine detail work |
| Stabilo CarbOthello | Affordable, water-soluble, easy to sharpen | Students, sketchbook work, color layering |
| Derwent Pastel Pencils | Consistent texture, good tonal range | Beginner to intermediate artists |
| Conte à Paris Pastel Pencils | Earthy tones, strong line quality, compact core | Portrait artists, classical drawing techniques |
1. Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils
Faber-Castell’s Pitt Pastel line is a favorite among both hobbyists and professionals. According to artist Emily Rose, these pencils adapt beautifully to a wide range of artistic styles—from tight realism to expressive sketching. Their smooth laydown and reduced dust make them ideal for layering over colored pencil or watercolor washes.
The core is slightly harder than some other brands, which gives it an edge in precision work without sacrificing blendability. They’re also highly lightfast, making them suitable for gallery-quality artwork.
As Emily Rose notes in her review (source), Faber-Castell’s adaptability makes them an excellent all-around choice. If you’re looking to buy pencils that can handle both detail and soft transitions, this is a top contender.
2. Caran d’Ache Pastel Pencils
For those who demand the best in color intensity and texture, Caran d’Ache pastel pencils are a luxury worth investing in. Their buttery consistency and deep pigmentation allow for rich, expressive applications. These pencils perform exceptionally well on sanded pastel paper, where the tooth grabs the pigment for strong layering.
According to Potato Art Studios, Caran d’Ache pencils stand out for their smooth application and exceptional color vibrancy. However, they come at a higher price point, making them ideal for professionals or serious hobbyists who value quality over quantity.
Pros: Incredible color payoff, smooth blending, durable barrel
Cons: Expensive, softer core may break under pressure
3. Stabilo CarbOthello
Stabilo’s CarbOthello pastel pencils are a favorite in art classrooms and among budget-conscious artists. Despite their affordability, they offer impressive performance. Their water-soluble core provides versatility—you can blend them dry or activate with water for painterly effects.
They’re also easy to sharpen to a fine point, which is often a challenge with softer pastels. According to the team at Art is Fun, Stabilo’s tonal variety and usability make them a strong option for beginners and casual artists alike.
Pros: Budget-friendly, water-soluble, wide color range
Cons: Slightly less pigmented than premium brands
4. Derwent Pastel Pencils
Derwent offers a soft pastel pencil that sits comfortably in the mid-range market. Their pencils are slightly firmer than Caran d’Ache but softer than Faber-Castell, making them a good compromise for artists who want both control and blendability.
They’re known for their consistent texture and ability to layer without becoming muddy. Derwent pastel pencils are also widely available from most major pencil supplier networks, making them easy to source in sets or individual colors.
Ideal Use: Landscape drawing, color studies, teaching environments
5. Conte à Paris Pastel Pencils
Conte à Paris has a long-standing reputation in the fine art world, especially among portrait and figure artists. These pencils have a compact, dense core that produces rich, earthy tones. They’re less blendable than others but ideal for expressive line work and classical techniques.
They pair beautifully with toned paper and are often used in conjunction with Conte crayons for traditional drawing methods. If your style leans toward the academic or representational, this brand is worth exploring.
How to Choose a Reliable Pencil Supplier
When you’re ready to buy pencils, especially in bulk or for institutional use, selecting the right pencil supplier is just as important as choosing the brand. Here’s what to look for:
- OEM/ODM Capabilities: If you’re sourcing for resale or private label, ensure the supplier offers original equipment manufacturing (OEM) services.
- Consistent Stock: Check that they maintain inventory of top pastel brands and offer open stock options.
- Shipping & Handling: Pastel pencils are fragile—ask about protective packaging and international shipping policies.
- Certifications: Look for compliance with ASTM D-4236 or EN 71 safety standards, especially for school use.
Tips for Buying Pastel Pencils Online
Buying online has its perks—variety, convenience, and often better pricing—but it also requires caution. Here’s how to shop smart:
- Start with a small set or sample pack before committing to a full range
- Check for lightfastness ratings and pigment information in product descriptions
- Read verified customer reviews, especially regarding breakage or packaging
- Use trusted art supply retailers or official brand stores
Pairing Pastel Pencils with the Right Paper
To get the most out of your pastel pencils, the surface you draw on matters. Textured or sanded papers hold pigment better and allow for multiple layers. Some popular options include:
- Pastelmat: Velvety surface, ideal for fine detail and layering
- Canson Mi-Teintes: Widely available, comes in various tones
- UART Sanded Paper: Excellent grip, suitable for heavy layering
As highlighted by Art is Fun, understanding the synergy between pencil and paper is crucial. A high-end pastel pencil won’t perform well on smooth printer paper—it needs a toothy surface to shine.
Final Thoughts: Invest in the Right Tools for Your Art
Choosing the best pastel pencil is a balance between personal preference, artistic goals, and budget. Whether you favor the rich tones of Caran d’Ache, the adaptability of Faber-Castell, or the accessibility of Stabilo, the key is to match your tools to your technique.
When sourcing from a pencil supplier, prioritize quality, consistency, and service. And always test your materials—art is as much about exploration as it is about execution.
For deeper dives into pastel techniques or brand comparisons, explore these helpful resources:
- Potato Art Studios: The Best Pastel Pencils
- Emily Rose Fine Art: Top Pastel Pencil Brands
- Art is Fun: Best Pastel Pencils and Paper
Now that you’re equipped with expert knowledge, it’s time to pick up the right pastel pencils and let your creativity take the lead.
Related Reading
- Everything About Colored Pencils Wholesale for B2B Buyers
- Best Custom Logo Pencils for Wholesale Orders
- How to Choose Colored Pencils Wholesale for South America
- Benefits of Private Label Pencil Orders for B2B Buyers
- Best FSC Certified Pencils for EU Buyers
- Top Private Label Pencil Orders for Australia Importers
- Best Private Label Pencil Orders for B2B Buyers
- Everything About FSC Certified Pencils for Global Distributors