Step by Step: Oil Pastel Techniques for beginers

Step by Step: Oil Pastel Techniques for beginers

Discover the Versatility of Oil Pastels

Oil pastels are wonderfully expressive art materials. Unlike traditional pencils or watercolours, they allow you to create rich, bold marks with plenty of texture.

They can be used for detailed drawings, colourful landscapes, abstract artwork and everything in between.

The ARTME Oil Pastel Paint Sticks set contains 24 vibrant colours, with rich pigmentation and strong coverage, making it a versatile choice for experimenting with different techniques.

Here are 10 techniques to try.

1. Layering

Apply one colour over another to create depth and new colour combinations.

2. Blending

Use your finger, blending tool or another suitable method to soften the edges between colours.

3. Colour Mixing

Place two colours next to each other and blend them together to create an intermediate shade.

4. Hatching

Create groups of parallel lines to add shading and texture.

5. Cross-Hatching

Layer lines in different directions to create darker areas and additional texture.

6. Scumbling

Use small, loose circular or scribbled movements to build up interesting surface texture.

7. Thick Application

Apply the pastel heavily to create bold, textured marks. This can produce an almost three-dimensional effect.

8. Fine Details

Use the edge or tip of an oil pastel stick to create thinner lines and small details.

9. Colour Blocking

Instead of drawing every detail, divide your artwork into large areas of contrasting colour. This works particularly well for abstract art and modern landscapes.

10. Experiment with Texture

Try working on textured paper or canvas rather than a completely smooth surface. The texture underneath can become part of the artwork.

What Should Beginners Paint?

Oil pastels are perfect for experimenting, so don't worry about creating a masterpiece straight away.

Try painting:

  • Sunsets
  • Flowers
  • Landscapes
  • Animals
  • Portraits
  • Abstract patterns
  • Still-life arrangements

Start with simple shapes and gradually add layers of colour and texture.

ARTME Oil Pastels can be used directly on canvas, canvas sheets and textured paper, giving artists plenty of surfaces to explore.

Most Importantly — Experiment

The best way to learn oil pastel techniques is simply to use them.

Try different pressures, colours and surfaces. Make marks you wouldn't normally make. Blend some areas while leaving others heavily textured.

There is no single "correct" way to use oil pastels — and that's what makes them so much fun.

Explore ARTME Oil Pastels and discover your own colourful style.