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Pan pastels are a unique form of dry pastel medium that diverges from the conventional stick or pencil format. These pastels come in pans, resembling small, shallow containers, and are formulated with a finely milled, ultra-soft consistency. Unlike traditional pastels, pan pastels eliminate the need for direct application with sticks, allowing artists to use specialised tools like Sofft® applicators, sponges, or brushes for precise and controlled application. The result is a remarkable level of detail and a smooth, velvety finish. Pan pastels are favoured for their versatility, offering artists the ability to layer and blend colours seamlessly, achieving a wide range of textures and effects in their artwork. This innovative format makes pan pastels a valuable addition to the pastel artist's toolkit, providing new possibilities for creative expression.
Prepare your surface
PanPastels work well on a variety of surfaces, but they adhere best to surfaces with some tooth or texture. Pastel paper, sanded paper, or even textured board are good choices. Pastel paper comes in many different muted tones and colours, so you don’t have to begin your pastel journey on a stark white background if you feel this is too overwhelming.
Sketch or underdrawing
Start with a light sketch or underdrawing using a regular graphite or pastel pencil. This will provide a guideline for your PanPastel application.
Choose your colours
PanPastels come in a wide range of colours. Select the colours you need for your artwork. You can apply them with Sofft Tools or other applicators designed for PanPastels. Test out your colours first on a spare bit of pastel paper, aim to investigate layering techniques, to make new and exciting colours and tones.
Use Sofft tools
- Sofft Tools are sponge-like tools designed specifically for applying PanPastels. They come in different shapes and sizes for various effects.
- Load the Sofft Tool by gently rubbing it over the PanPastel cake. Start with a small amount of colour and build up as needed.
Layering
PanPastels are highly blendable, and you can layer them to create a smooth transition between colours. Start with lighter colours and gradually add darker ones on top. Swipe the Sofft Tool over the pan surface once or twice, no more than twice as you may create too much dust. This will lift the colour straight onto the sponge tip and then when you have applied the colour onto your pastel paper the grain of the paper will take it off your sponge. If you need to clean your sponge in between applications, just swipe your sponge on a clean bit of kitchen paper to remove the excess pigment.
Blending and colour mixing
Use the Sofft Tools or your fingers to blend PanPastels. The fine texture of the PanPastels allows for smooth blending, helping you achieve a soft and seamless look. Colours can also be blended together on the pans themselves or on the paper. To clean the pan after you have made your new colour, just wipe with a dry sponge.
Detail work
While PanPastels are great for large areas and backgrounds, you can also use smaller tools or brushes for more detailed work. Use a soft brush or a smaller Sofft Tool for precision. If you need to add extra fine detail, you could use a Pastel Pencil such as Derwent Pastel pencilsor use an eraser to etch into your drawing then go over again with your desired colour. Lots of erasers work to correct your drawing or to create highlights; such as Winsor & Newton Kneaded Putty Rubber, Factis Soft Synthetic Rubber Eraser XXL 03R, Derwent USB Rechargeable Eraser, or Derwent Specialist Artist Erasers Pack of 2.
Study of Turner’s ‘Sunset at Turner’s Cove’ using PanPastels set of 20 Landscapes on Clairefontaine Pastelmat with Derwent pastel pencils.
Fixatives:
- Once your PanPastel drawing is complete, consider using a fixative spray to set the pastel and prevent smudging. Some artists use it, however some don’t, it is a personal choice. Always follow the instructions on whichever brand you have chosen as they do differ, for a safe application and always spray in a well ventilated area.
- Fixatives can also be used as a way to isolate previous layers of colour, especially on smoother surfaces. This layer is applied lightly so you can work on top of it when dry, without smudging the lower layers too much. You will still need to Fix your top layer once you have finished your pastel work.
- Pastel paintings are usually displayed under glass for protection and longevity. It is always advisable to test your fixative and varnish before applying to your final piece of work.
- Daler-Rowney Colourless Perfix Fixative Spray With Anti UV Protection
- Loxley Aerosol Fixative 400ml with a U.V. Filter
- Seawhite Clear Fixative Spray 400ml
- SpectraFix Degas Pastel Fixative
Protect your work
Pastel works can be delicate, so consider using a fixative and framing your artwork under glass to protect it.
Experiment and practice
PanPastels offer a unique way to work with pastel colours. Experiment with different techniques, layering, and combinations to get a feel for the medium.
Remember that PanPastels can be less dusty than traditional pastels, making them a cleaner option for artists. Enjoy the process of exploring the possibilities of this versatile medium.
Accessories for PanPastels
Here are some links to great brands of pastel paper
We hope you have found this article helpful and look forward to you sharing your creative journeys with us at #colouringthenation on Instagram