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Soft pastel pencils are a fantastic tool for artists seeking the blendability and rich pigment of traditional soft pastels with the control and precision of a pencil. They offer smooth application, vibrant colors, and the ability to create fine details that are harder to achieve with standard pastels. Whether you’re sketching, shading, or adding intricate accents to your artwork, soft pastel pencils can help elevate your creations.
When choosing soft pastel pencils, several factors should be considered. The softness of the core affects how easily the pigment blends and lays down on paper. Durability is another critical factor since softer pencils may break more easily during sharpening. Look for lightfastness ratings if you want colors that will stay vivid over time. Finally, ergonomic design can make a big difference for longer sessions, so pay attention to the pencil’s grip size and weight.
We tested numerous options to find the best soft pastel pencils that balance performance, durability, and ease of use.
Best Soft Pastel Pencils
Here is our complete list of the best soft pastel pencils.
1. Ticonderoga Pastel Pencils
These pastel pencils strike the perfect balance between style, performance, and reliability, making them a solid addition to any pencil collection.
Pros
- The soft, smooth graphite makes writing effortless.
- Beautiful pastel shades add a modern touch.
- Pre-sharpened, saving us time right out of the box.
Cons
- Slightly pricier compared to standard options.
- The matte finish can attract fingerprints.
- Pastel colors may not appeal to everyone.
We’ve used a lot of pencils over the years, and Ticonderoga consistently stands out. These pastel pencils don’t just look great—they perform exceptionally well. They glide across the page, offering a smooth and satisfying writing experience. Whether we’re jotting down notes or sketching, these pencils get the job done with ease.
The pre-sharpened tips are a real time-saver for busy schedules. There’s something incredibly convenient about being able to grab one and start writing immediately. The pastel colors also make them easy to spot in a pile of supplies, which we found helpful.
However, not everything about these pencils is perfect. While they feel premium, the slight increase in price might be a drawback for some. Additionally, the matte finish, though stylish, can pick up smudges if handled often. Despite these minor issues, they’re still among the best options for anyone looking for reliable and chic pencils.
2. Koh-I-Noor Artist’s Soft Pastel Pencils
A great choice for artists who want precision and smooth blending in their pastel work.
Pros
- Ideal for creating fine, precise details.
- Smooth, blendable texture for seamless transitions.
- Sturdy pencils that sharpen easily.
Cons
- Packaging may arrive dented or damaged.
- Some users might find the color range limited.
- The pigment could be richer compared to premium brands.
These soft pastel pencils feel smooth in hand and deliver just the right amount of pigment, which makes detailed work a pleasure. The texture is silky, and blending colors into each other is effortless, especially when used on high-quality pastel paper. Whether for sketching or layering, they perform well.
We found the pencils’ ability to sharpen without breaking impressive. That’s a big advantage with pastels, as some soft types can crumble under pressure. The set provides a good variety of colors, even if it’s not the most extensive palette on the market.
The packaging might leave something to be desired. While functional, the metal case can sometimes arrive dented, which could be an issue if you’re looking to gift it. Still, for personal use, it’s a reliable set that offers versatility and convenience.
3. Mont Marte Soft Pastels Set
This pastel set is worth considering for anyone wanting vibrant colors and great blending at an affordable price.
Pros
- Includes a wide range of 48 vivid colors
- Easy to blend and smooth in application
- Comes in a sturdy tin box for safe storage
Cons
- Some sticks may feel fragile under heavy use
- Lacks additional whites, which would be useful
- The half-stick size may not suit those who prefer larger pastels
This set makes a strong first impression with its impressive color variety. The pastels are soft enough for effortless blending, allowing us to create flawless gradients and achieve smooth transitions in our artwork. Whether shading broad areas or adding small, detailed touches, the colors go on with ease.
The storage case is another practical feature. Having a compact tin box ensures everything remains organized and protected from breakage. While using the pastels, we found their texture ideal for layering and experimenting with techniques like smudging and highlights.
However, we did notice some drawbacks. The half-stick size may feel limiting to some, especially for larger projects. A few pastels seemed delicate when applying more pressure, and we would have appreciated more whites for additional highlights. Despite that, this set is great for beginners and experienced artists alike. It’s a solid option for colorful, creative work.
4. KALOUR Soft Pastel Set of 24
This set is a solid choice for artists seeking a smooth and vibrant pastel experience at an affordable price.
Pros
- Bright colors that stand out beautifully on paper
- Easy to blend for smooth transitions
- Convenient and protective packaging
Cons
- Some sticks may break during shipping
- Slightly firmer texture compared to true soft pastels
- Limited to 24 shades, which might feel restrictive for advanced artists
The colors in this set are vivid and catch the eye immediately. We enjoyed how smoothly they applied to paper, making blending feel natural and effortless. Whether layering shades or creating detailed textures, the pastels performed well without crumbling excessively.
The packaging deserves a nod—it keeps the sticks organized and protected, making it easy to transport the set. However, we noticed some issues with breakage upon delivery, although the inclusion of a protective sponge helps minimize this risk.
For beginners and those exploring pastels, this is a versatile medium to test out. While advanced artists might want more shades or softer pastels, this set is dependable for sketching, shading, and other creative projects.
Buying Guide
When selecting soft pastel pencils, it’s essential to focus on a combination of performance, usability, and quality. Let’s break down the key features to consider:
1. Color Range & Blending
We should look for pencils with a wide and vibrant color range to allow for better creative flexibility. Ensure the colors blend smoothly to achieve seamless transitions in your artwork. Check for pigments that perform well both dry and when softened with blending tools or fingers.
2. Lightfastness
Lightfastness is critical if our work will be displayed. This quality determines how resistant the colors are to fading over time. Look for products with a high lightfastness rating to ensure our artwork remains vibrant for years.
3. Pencil Texture
The pencil should feel comfortable in our hands and glide easily across paper. A high-quality soft pastel pencil strikes a balance: soft enough for smooth application yet firm enough to resist unnecessary breakage.
4. Build Quality
The casing should protect the core and sharpen cleanly without crumbling. A well-constructed pencil ensures durability and allows us to maintain precision while working on details.
5. Paper Compatibility
Consider whether the pencil performs well on various paper types. Some work better on textured paper, while others adapt to smoother surfaces. Matching the pencil to the type of paper we use ensures the best results for our projects.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Color Range | Creative versatility |
| Lightfastness | Long-lasting results |
| Texture | Ease of use |
| Build Quality | Durability & precision |
| Paper Compatibility | Optimal performance |
By focusing on these features, we can confidently select tools that meet our creative needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When choosing soft pastel pencils, understanding factors like suitability for skill levels, key features, and specific use cases can help narrow down options. Let’s explore common questions to guide your decision.
Which pastel pencils are best suited for beginners?
For beginners, we recommend pencils with smooth blending qualities and softer cores. Brands like Stabilo CarbOthello and Faber-Castell’s Pitt Pastel Pencils are approachable due to their consistency and ease of use. They also typically offer starter sets with a balanced color range.
What characteristics define professional-grade pastel pencils?
Professional-grade pencils often have rich pigmentation, excellent lightfastness, and a well-balanced texture. These pencils can achieve both bold and subtle effects while holding up well over time. Options like Caran d’Ache Pastel Pencils stand out for their durability and high-quality performance.
How do pastel pencils differ from traditional soft pastels?
Pastel pencils provide similar coloration to traditional soft pastels but in a more controlled, pencil-like format. They produce less dust and are less likely to break, making them ideal for details and precision. This makes them a cleaner and less fragile choice for intricate artwork.
Which pastel pencils offer the best precision for fine lines?
When precision matters, pencils with firmer cores are ideal. The Derwent Pastel Pencils excel in creating fine details and crisp lines without compromising their smooth application. Their structure allows for sharp points, improving accuracy in tight spaces.
Can you recommend a pastel pencil brand that experts frequently use?
Many experienced artists favor brands like Caran d’Ache and Stabilo. Caran d’Ache pencils are known for their premium quality and vibrant colors, while Stabilo offers versatility and reliability. Both deliver professional-grade results that meet advanced artistic needs.
Are there significant differences between oil pastel pencils and soft pastel pencils?
Soft pastel pencils contain a powdery texture and blend easily, while oil pastel pencils are waxier and resist smudging. The softer type is ideal for layering and shading, whereas oil-based ones are better suited for bold, opaque applications. Choosing between the two depends on the desired texture and finish.