Pan Pastels: Oil-Based Or Not?

Pan pastels are a type of soft pastel with a unique cake-like format. They are formulated with a minimal amount of binder and are contained in flat compact pans. This results in a higher concentration of colours and less dust. Pan pastels are applied to the surface using sponges or brushes. They are compatible with other pastel media and can be used for mixed media techniques. On the other hand, oil pastels are bound with oil and wax, giving them a texture similar to oil paints. They do not crumble or smudge and do not require a fixative.

PanPastels are a type of soft pastel

PanPastels are a relatively new format for pastels but have gained a huge following. They are popular because they can be blended easily, fully erased, and used with other art mediums and on a variety of surfaces. They are also cleaner to use than soft pastels and create less dust.

PanPastels are available in a wide range of colours and can be purchased individually or as part of a set. They are more expensive than traditional pastel pigments.

They are packed in a unique pan format

PanPastels are a relatively new format for pastels. They are packed in a unique, cake-like pan format. This format allows for much less binder and the highest pigment concentration of any pastel product. The packaging protects the pigment, reduces waste, and allows for easy storage and transport.

PanPastels are packed in flat compact pans, similar to those that contain makeup. They are applied to the surface using unique micropore soft sponge tools. They can be used alone for completing a whole painting or can be used in combination with other pastel media such as soft or hard pastel sticks.

PanPastels are available in a range of tools, or applicators, known as "Sofft Tools". These tools allow you to manipulate the texture of the pastels to create details in varying degrees and other effects. They are also available in larger containers like standard paint pots and bigger jars. The pans and storage jars interlock securely, making it easy to store and organise, minimising the amount of storage space required.

PanPastels are a cleaner medium than most and don't create as much dust as soft pastels. They are also easy to blend and can be erased entirely. They can be used with different art mediums and on a variety of surfaces.

They can be used for mixed media art

PanPastels are a fantastic medium for mixed media art. They can be used alongside other pastel media, such as soft or hard pastel sticks, as well as with coloured pencils, markers, and pens. PanPastels can also be used over watercolours and inks once dry, and are compatible with any water-based artist's medium.

PanPastel Colours can be applied over many grounds, including acrylic grounds, for a range of mixed media effects. They are also useful for three-dimensional objects.

PanPastels are a great way to add colour to encaustic artwork. They can be used with both the clear (unpigmented) encaustic medium and encaustic paints.

PanPastels work well on digital papers, making them perfect for hand-colouring digital prints and photographs.

PanPastels are also a good option for those who dislike the mess of regular pastels. They are less dusty than soft pastels and can be used with a range of tools, including brushes and sponges, for a variety of painterly effects.

PanPastels are compatible with coloured pencils

Coloured pencils, on the other hand, offer control and precision in adding intricate details to a piece of art. When used together, PanPastels and coloured pencils complement each other's strengths. PanPastels can be used to quickly layer colours and create a base, while coloured pencils can add precision and depth to the artwork. This combination of media can result in a depth of colour without sacrificing detail.

Additionally, PanPastels can be used on various surfaces, including cartridge paper and coloured papers with a non-glossy finish. They are also erasable and produce less dust than regular stick pastels, making them a cleaner option. Coloured pencils, whether wax-based or oil-based, can be used effectively on top of PanPastels, especially when applied lightly.

The versatility of PanPastels and their compatibility with coloured pencils make them a popular choice for artists, allowing for experimentation and the creation of unique artistic expressions.

They are made with minimal binder and fillers

PanPastels are a form of soft pastels with a minimal binder and filler composition. This means that they contain the least amount of binder possible, resulting in a creamy consistency. They are formulated in flat compact pans, similar to makeup pans, and applied to the surface using unique micropore soft sponge tools.

The minimal binder composition of PanPastels results in the highest concentration of colours. They produce the least amount of dust, which does not mess up your work area. PanPastels can also come in larger containers like standard paint pots and bigger jars. The packaging protects the pigments and prevents wastage.

One of the advantages of PanPastels is that they are incredibly travel-friendly, allowing you to carry them anywhere. They can be easily stored and do not damage other objects with scratches and marks, which sometimes happens with soft or oil pastel sticks.

PanPastels are also easy to blend and can be completely erased. They can be used with different art mediums and on a variety of surfaces. They are a cleaner medium than most and don't create as much dust as soft pastels.

Frequently asked questions