I would never tell you to paint on Kleenex, but I might recommend rubbing or blending with it! I'm glad my voice helps you listen in. That's very kind.
Very soothing and confident voice indeed!!🧘 Makes me want to put all my art supplies on the table and be creatieve !✍️🖌️🎨🖍️🎨 Alan, if you would talk about food and ingredients with the same voice...woow...weightwatchers would have a new client in me...🤭😄😄 Thank you for your useful video's!🤗🌸
Thank you for the great video. Really enjoy your teaching style. Please keep the beginner pastel lessons coming. Love the helpful info sheets and have started a notebook for them. Would like to see video on techniques.
Thank you Linda, I am glad you are enjoying the videos and putting those resource sheets to good use! Stay tuned, as there is more to come. Keep painting!
Thank you for posting. I buy Uart by the roll and have 400, 500, 600 and 800 grit. I like the rolls as they provide a versatile stock, cutting the paper to whatever size I need. You do need to mount to a board though to eliminate any curl. Or alternatively you can cut to size and then let it relax with a wash and then let it dry flat. Have you tried Fabriano's Taziano paper? It has a laid surface on one side and a smoother side. I use that as well as Canson's Mi-Teintes for studies.
Yes I have tried Fabriano, but really just for tonal sketching, not so much pastel. it's got a lovely laid texture. I have a roll of UART 400 for my large work. I love it! I don't tend to venture above 500, as the finer grits can't support my heavy hand I guess. It's so great that one can select their preferred grit though, such an advantage. All the best!
@@AlainPicard Heavy hand? It looks like you tickle the pastel onto the paper, very thoughtful and painterly. I seem to always go for too much detail and probably should have someone looking over my shoulder to say "Stop". :-)
Hello Alan. From México. Recently "discover" pastel. I have many questions, like this, the paper. Thanks For this video. The paper color: why use blue or gray or green or other?
Hi Alain: About two years ago, I wrote a short note to you, thank you for your excellent tutorials and I wanted to thank you once again. Pastel painting is now the air that I breathe and keeps me always wanting more. It's been 3 years now that Pastels have kept me alive. Sometimes my instructor has to 'be my hands' as my peripheral neuropathy can be depilating. I now have 9 Paintings under my belt and about 5 on a waiting. It's taken longer as my cancer can keep me weeks to get back up and running. I purchased the 3M glue and watched your mounting video. I plan on mounting about 10 boards today. I just wanted to say thank you once again
what a beautiful story of coming into your creative gifts, Amy, thanks for sharing. I'm so glad to encourage your creative growth. Hey, I have a free workshop this week if you want to join us and feel strong enough to participate. you can find out about it here: learn.picardstudio.com/workshop-fall-22
Hi there...great video...well organized and I concur with all your comments 🙂 The only couple of minor points I would have added is that Sennelier Lacarte (the first sanded paper I encountered) shouldn’t be used for plein air work. Sometimes it rains and bitter experience has shown me that a great piece can rapidly descend into a mess of white blobs if it does. You talk about washes and that is all true. Sometimes Mother Nature gives you an unintended wash. Also, I find that Uart paper can sometimes accept pastel unevenly, especially if you are using a light touch. An underpainting helps but if you like to use the gold colour as a toned surface and hence want to build up light layers I find that it can be resistant to an even application. I very much enjoy your presentations. Your calm delivery makes it easy to follow and retain the information.
Great points, thanks for sharing them Patricia. I move from a light to a rather heavy touch, so I haven't struggled with the uneven surface of UART in my approach. So true about the LaCarte, just not a stable surface for outdoor work! I should have said that. Keep painting!
Patricia Lindley oh, yeah Mother Nature rains on you,; blows the easel over and precious sticks are dust. Took a work shop in NC. Grandfather mountain is sure a challenge.
Thanks for another great video, Mr. Picard! In addition to the great products that you listed, another surface that I enjoy is Ampersand Pastelbord. It’s a coated board that comes in a variety of colors and sizes with a fine tooth. In my opinion, it’s quality and very affordable. It’s a very rigid board similar to MDF. It takes all manner of washes and can even be run under a faucet to completely clean it off for “do overs”.
Try Pastelmat for a smoother surface that can build up great layers of pastel. Try UART 600 grit for a fine grit portrait surface if you want alot of fine detail.
Newbie here.. thank you for this video. I have seen several of these brands listed and now understand why they cost significantly more.. these would be "gallery-approved" papers? What is the reccomended paper weight/GSM for quality paper in terms of oil pastel? If it's high quality paper can they be thinner and still as effective (with consideration to those that can not take liquids)? I am practicing on Strathmore Drawing paper 70lb/114gsm and for final work the Strathmore 400 Pastel which is 118gsm/80lb. I noticed the Strathmore has more tooth and can hold more layers which makes sense. So far I am not adding water or any other solvent. I beleive bc I have oil pastel (Mungyo) I am not supposed to add solvent..
I love 400 grit, it is the most popular and versatile. Higher grits are smoother and take less layering. Lower grits are rougher and eat up the pastels more. Hope that helps!
I may have the last surviving roll of Wallis!! However, it's the professional grade and not the museum grade, like my previous roll. It's so tightly curled that it's barely usable and would be a nightmare to frame. Good to know that there's a similar paper!!
What about Hahnemühle Velour paper vs Pastelcard, Pastelmat and Uart paper? And I would like some videos from you about optimal fixatives and how they alter the tones and colors? Thanks for the vids.
H E L P - That was wonderful BUT since I'm totally new to pastels, it doesn't answer my question. What is the best to use for my needs, and most archival of all the papers to do serious pastel portraits on to sell to my art customers? And what spray fixative can I use that won't change the color values and shadings in any way that might change a portrait?
One question-I would love to hear if there are any thought processes to the color paper one picks out. Maybe its a silly question- Is it just the opposite of the colors you will be using in your painting? TY. So many pretty pastel color papers. I do get confused.
Great info! I have just started with pastels and am using 400/600 grit waterproof sandpaper from the hardware store - have you used it and how does it compare to these more expensive papers? I am really enjoying your tutorials!
Thank you! I am completely new to soft pastels, like they’re still shipping to me new. I just want to get into them so bad. I don’t paint with pastels or paint landscapes, and I’m feeling the pull in this direction. I have to change things up all the time. It’s party because I’m an art teacher, but this I just NEED! Thank you for the info❤️
Thanks for another great video. I use a lot of Pastelmat, La Carte, and velour for my wildlife works. Another super sanded paper: Fisher 400. Now I will have to give Uart a whirl. If it's your numero uno, then it must be pretty darn good. Thanks again
Thanks Tina, I have heard great things about Fisher 400 I will have to test it out sometime soon. Yes, I love that UART paper, especially mounted to board. It's wonderful. All the best to you!
It's on his apron, I was frustrated as well until I noticed the apron 🙁 but the other names seemed to be purposely put on a bad angle...my guess is that he wants us to download that list of the names but to download the list you need to give your email information which I'm guessing he's selling to someone
I am just starting and using Winsor and Newton paper earth tones. I like the tone and it has a regular texture. I’m not sure if it handles washes tho I need to try.
Thanks for posting this! I like the PastelMat paper. I bought a pad of the Uart sanded paper and it has all curled up so as to be unusable. ☹ I wonder if I could glue it down onto mat board or something?
I've found the new Lux Archival paper from Brush and Pencil is VERY NICE (takes solvent and multiple layers with ease). I'm a pencil artist mainly but dabbling in pastel. Wanted to get a less expensive paper as the Lux is a little pricey for learning on. very helpful review: Thanks!
Helpful information, thanks! I like pastelmat and also good quality velour, especially for animal portraits. By the way, the pronunciation of the Canson paper puzzled me for years. I finally looked it up and it is pronounced "Mee-TONT" (as in font or Tonto). French for "mid-tone," I believe. ☺
Mee-TONT! That's awesome, I always feel self-concious while pronouncing the word, which I knew wasn't quite right. I love it, now I can declare it with assertion. Well done, thanks!
Hello sir,i dont know that you will see my video or not. I am a big fan of your paintings. I also draw a lot of pictures, i want to show to you. Will you see
Hi Alain. I'm new to pastel painting and come from using watercolours for the last few years. I found this video very helpful. I have a steep learning curve in this new medium. I am really enjoying it.
You should try Lux Archival Sanded Paper because it takes watercolor washes beautifully, then you can add soft pastel over the top for an amazing combination! Enjoy your creative journey!
Have you ever used Strathmore pastel paper? It doesn't seem like many artists like this paper but it's the only kind I've tried so far. If I use my hand to blend that first layer the initial stronger strokes layer on top. I'd like to just layer and layer but they just muddy together unless I kinda blend that first layer down. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Alan. Great tips for different papers. However, I need to find out where and how do I get som of the oversized, extra large charcoal or pastel drawing papers without spending a fortune. Your helpful thoughts and ideas are highly appreciated.
Thanks for valuable opinion Alan. I tried few of the papers you had mentioned but now I'm in real love with Uart and Pastelmat. Superb. As you had very well mentioned....difficult to blend pastelmat...UART 400 grit , dark...is my favourite . Meteintes touch....does not take much layers....but blends beautifully with colorshapers... I had love hate relation with pastels because of lack of knowledge about papers and pastel brands...after watching Jason Morgan...i learnt a lot...many beginners will bless you Alan. Thanks again🙏🙏
Jason Morgan is a great teacher. I've learned so much from his tutorials. I started with pastels and learned so much, however, watching many of Alain Picard's tutorials on the Artists Network.
I'm teaching myself soft pastels, with the help of you and other artists who are generous with UA-cam content. Wanted to say Thank you for that! This video is so helpful, especially in regard to what solvents the various papers can stand up to for underpaintings (I've not yet tried a wet underpainting, only hard pastel drawings). I've tried several papers, and find sanded papers (Pastelmat, Pastel Premier, UArt) are my favorites, although I do really enjoy the Strathmore toned sketchbooks and Canson Mi-Teintes. I love to watch the pictures 'emerge' from the toned backgrounds in the Strathmore sketchbooks.
I've used Colourfix, Uart, Pastelmat, and Touch and enjoyed all of them. I haven't tried Pastel Card or Premier yet. What do you think of Hahnnelmule Velour?
Hi James and Linda, thanks for asking! I haven't used Velour much, as I don't personally enjoy that really velvety soft surface, I'm a fan of the toothy grit of sanded papers. I know other excellent artists like Emma Colbert (check out her UA-cam channel) who love Velour. Perhaps you can learn from her on that one. It's just not my style. All the best!
Yes @@cherylparr8302 I think I'd lean more toward PastelMat then Velour if I needed that finish. It is an amazing surface. But hey, whatever facilitates an artist's unique style is the right surface, don't you think?! All the best to you in your continued creative work!
Thank you for this information. I would love to try the Claire Fontaine, but I can't afford it at the moment. What would be your second choice? How does the pastel gesso compare to the Claire Fontaine?
Pastel primer is a great way to create your own toothy surfaces. It allows you to create some texture and brushy marks with the primer too. Different than the smooth pastelmat paper that holds the pastel incredibly well, but very effective!
Thanks for this information! I am a beginner with pastels and overwhelmed with the paper choices. I've learned a little along the way, and your information has also helped. I have been enjoying practicing on regular old hardware sand paper 400 and 600 grit (I learned not to get the "no clog" sand paper) and now am wanting to find an artist grade sanded paper than mimics that texture. I have tried to use other papers with adding my own clear gesso, but have not been as happy with that result. It sounds like UART may be the choice for me. Thanks again!
Thank you for getting a you tube channel and making videos regularly now. I've learned so much from you since I started pastel painting. Would love a video on your style of painting. I noticed you make straight marks many times. Love the way you teach slowly. Easy to follow you.. Thx for taking the time to make these great video's 🤗 Btw.. it would be great if you came to Miami, Fl. and had a workshop and maybe u can even make a vacation out of it!
Thanks Belinda, appreciate your kind remarks. I'd love to find a way to Miami for a workshop sometime! Always looking for organizations that will host me. And I'll continue to create more videos, so stay tuned! Keep painting
I don't have a framing video here, but you can frame it behind an AR glass for final protection. You can place your pastel art in a clear bag for temporary protection and carrying. All my best!
Thank you for the information. I’m a complete newbie. The definition of an amateur and this has given me a beginning. Also great voice. You should do voice overs. A second career 🤔
I have used Pastel Premier, Uart, Colourfix and Wallis. Pastel Premier and Colourfix are my favorites at this point. My Wallis supply is limited and they are 9x12 only. I do find Uart and Wallis close in the ability to take pastel application well. Never tried Pastel Card - sort of concerned about water getting on it and ruining it before getting it finished. Might have to give it a try though. I have used the Canson Mi-Tientes (not Touch) for a couple of projects - very blended ones - which allow a little more layering. I don't blend much on the other papers though. Really appreciate your videos and comments. Love your art as well. Dick Blick, Jerry's and Cheap Joes are my goto sources!
I am just getting more absorbed into pastels and really understanding that the paper makes the biggest difference I just bought some lux archival sheets and they are so amazing; The paper is a teacher in itself because it allows you to experiment more with layering and blending
Before Kitty Wallis went out of business, I bought a very large roll of Kitty Wallis white. I expect to use it for the rest of my days doing pastels. What would you recommend is the best thing to use as a surface color that will not rub off on my hand or be picked up by pastels that I’m using on that paper? Is there a particular spray color that would work well and still leave me that beautiful tooth that I love so much.? Also, I bought a pad of colored Mi Tientes and found it did not hold the softer pastels. I like to layer a lot! My Wallis I love for that but I would like to underpaint on it. Suggestions?
Hi Nancy, if I understand you correctly, you want to stain your Wallis paper a color but still have all the tooth left. That is what underpainting accomplishes. Wallis works just like UART essentially, except for if you have the paper that needs to avoid alcohol washes. I have a whole series of underpainting videos that you can get free on my website here: picardstudio.com so check it out!
Thank you so much for this valuable video on the variety of papers available for pastels. Love this information; it saves time and money for beginning pastel artists. Nothing wrong with hit and miss experience but this information was so helpful to me. And thank you for responding so quickly to questions regarding pastels, pastel papers, techniques and your wonderful pastel lessons.
You are very welcome Louise, thanks for appreciating! So glad I can save you some time and money so you don't have to learn by trial and error, it's hard enough to learn to paint! Stay tuned, and I'm honored to be of some encouragement.
Hi Alain thank you for this information, is gatorboard the same as foamcore (I am french) what is difference thank you, Happy New Year to you and family
@@lyneqc7805 no worries. Gatorboard is harder than foam core. It is light and does not warp. You can use 4ply or 8ply Museum board as an alternative that is archival. That works great as well if you can't find Gatorboard. All my best!
I mean… it is what it is. If you want to work on an unsanded paper that’s fine but the results will be different. They have their use for sure. There are also ways to make your own so beginners have options. These are what he recommends to work in a rich style. That doesn’t happen on unsanded papers.
I have never been patient enough to wait a couple weeks for an order of Patelmat to arrive. UArt gives me a headache because it often curls and does not lay flat, but otherwise a good paper. Pastel Premier is the one I usually order because it's heavy, good quality and not overly expensive. I have noticed a lot of sheets aren't perfectly flat. Like they are stored poorly or stacked too high, which causes some subtle warping. However, by the time I cover a sheet with pastel, it's not noticeable. With UArt, the page curling is very noticeable after a work is completed. I even live in the desert southwest, so the rumors about it being caused by humidity seem suspect. Clear gesso is a good way to convert any surface to a pastel friendly surface. Though you have to go easy with your brushstrokes or you will get a lot of that texture in your final painting. The gesso method doesn't quite grab the pastel as well as paper, but you can get about the same results. Good if you want to convert a "bord" to a pastel surface. Then you don't have any issues with curling or warping.
Curling is not an issue if you mount all your canvases before using. Whether that be on masonite, a favorite or just poster board. It's very time consuming but makes everything much easier:-) I often buy in bulk and it comes in a roll. Good luck.
Another Great Video Alain! I've used Pastelmat and Art spectrums paper a lot , I do have a sample pack of Uart paper, which I will try now,, Looking for that painterly look! Thank you again
Thanks Maureen, and keep painting! Mark-making is a key element in the painterly style, so just try to make bolder, looser marks without cleaning them up and see how you do! All the best to you
Hi Alain, another very useful video! I normally use Canson Mi-Teintes, it's because I have some low grade pastels. I will upgrade both soon. I will probably buy either Sennelier paper or the high quality Canson sand paper. Thank you for sharing. Take care 😊
Thanks Azzu, and like I said, Canson is a great paper to experiment and practice on, it just doesn't hold lots of layers. Try a sample of the Canson Touch sometime to see the difference. Enjoy!
I started with Pastel Premier and love it. I have successfully used it with alcohol, but I guess didn’t get it soaked. I do have one question that no one seems to have an answer to. Why do all of the pastel paper companies make the precut papers and boards in 9x12? It’s such an odd size for framing or even with mats. Any idea?
No, I wish I knew, too. One can always work smaller. 9x12 is a standard size and I use it because so much paper comes that size. A top pastel painter did tell me, tho, at the crits the PSA has on Materials Day in Sept., to be taken seriously, use another size - not 9x12.
Hi Alain, I wondered what you thought of using Golden Pastel Ground on matte board? I have used it for mixed media but would love to know your thoughts on this for pure pastels and finished pastel works?
I think the Golden Pastel Ground is great. That is a very good solution for preparing a surface. Have fun with textures and brushstrokes with the ground!
The paper you use is the most important factor in how your painting will come out. You can get great results in many papers and each has their best use case. There are sample packs available from Dakota pastels, Jackson’s, and other art supply shops. You can also make your own with clear gesso and pumice.
Clairefontaine Pastelmat is great and I do love using it but their pads has a default with the paper having some lines where the pastel doesn't stay. They are aware of this as they have been contacted (by people from my class), we've been assured that they were looking into it but months later I'm still buying new pads having this default (across colours and sizes). There is a trick to get rid of these which is to lightly apply a wet sponge across the surface, but for the price of the paper, I expect more from them
Hi, I am a bit confused, could you please tell me what paper do I have to use? I was painting pastel in my back country but I can't find it in Amazon because I don't know the correct name. Is any body can help me to know the correct name for pastel paper. I Used to paint on a velvet paper, please help me, thanks
@@AlainPicard Dear Alain, Many thanks for your prompt respond. Actually, my wife and I watch your clips from you tube and quite like them, you have created very good video clips and we are really pleased to find you. The matter is my wife has painted some painting in my back country. She joined me recently to the UK and wants to start to paint dry pastel. We both do not know the name of the paper and even when I search it from Amazon or anywhere I can't find it because I am sure that we are not typing the correct name for dry pastel paper. I bought some A3 pastel paper from WHSmith but they are not the correct one. She used a French paper, Please help us to find the correct one. Many thanks , She used a pastel paper with velvet texture. I would be really grateful if you guide us what is the name of the pastel paper and where we can buy it from?
@@snsn5128 Perhaps you can try Clairefontaine Pastelmat. It is wonderful french paper. Not quite a velvet touch like Velour is, but smooth and excellent adhesion for soft pastel. Search for Pastelmat. It comes in many colors. Another surface I love is Sennelier LaCarte Card, it is coated and has a lovely tooth. all the best
Thank you so much, Alain. I knew nothing about pastel papers and now after this short video I have a good understanding of what I need. I'm so grateful for this knowledge. I was about to use watercolor paper I have on hand but now i know better. I'm new at pastels being an oil painter all my life. I'm tired of waiting for paint to dry and love the intense colors of pastels. I'm so excited, now I need some nice coated sanded mounted paper to work on!! Thanks again, Love, Joan Williamson
Will faber castell pitt pasel pencils work on smooth bristol??? I'm halfway into an art project and wanted to try faber castell pitt pastels pencils to create the sky. The reason is that the project is 4ft long and was hoping that the pitt pastels would move me along faster. Please advise.
Well I have to say the Faber Castell pastel pitt pencils work quite well on smooth Bristol paper I had 4 ft of sunset to do with one foot left. I'll finish that on Sunday. It creates quite a smooth creamy finish. Didn't use much of the pencils and was fairly quick to apply and blend. Conclusion is that I'm pleasantly surprised. Faber Castell pastel pit pencils work fine on smooth Bristol paper! Mission accomplished. Using the polychromos would have taken me forever.
What a wonderful video. I'm new to oil pastel and boy is this a fun medium! My frustration with most of these specialty papers is that it's a nightmare to find anything bigger than 50 cm x 70 cm. I like doing very large works in alcohol markers. It took me a long time to find very large (larger than A1 size) bristol board that is both archival and acid free. I eventually found some from an industry printing paper supplier and it is better than anything available in art stores for use with markers. Also because it's not an "art supply" it's wonderfully cheap (about $4 AUD in 420 gsm). I'm in Australia and I had no idea that art spectrum made that pastel gesso. This is fantastic news as it means I can use the large boards that I use my for marker works and get a top quality pastel paper in whatever colour I choose in whatever size I choose. Thanks so much.
Thank you so much for this great discussion of different types of pastel papers. For someone who is just starting and is sure to make a lot of mistakes while learning the techniques, what inexpensive paper, preferably a small pad, would you suggest?
You can blend on pastelmat paper once you have a number of coats of pastel on. I love how this paper grabs the pastel and there is no dust to contend with. It takes awhile to get used to but then you are going to love it.
Good Afternoon 🤓✌ I just subscribed to your channel 👍 I haven't played with pastels since my childhood and my children's childhood. Needless to say, I am an "old" beginner lol. I am enjoying this video but it's already over my head. Would you be offering an introduction to pastels aka 101 class? I have been feeling intimidated to even open my pastels up 😊 I see that I might not be ready for your channel yet? Would you recommend a channel for step by step pastel beginners? I don't know where to begin. Also would you recommend a paper for beginners to practice on before starting a project? Sincerely Thank you! Namaste Annie
It is not my preferred surface for the painterly style, I think it lends itself to subtle blending and very soft effects more than bold mark-making. See Emma Colbert's UA-cam Channel as she uses Velour masterfully. It's too plush and soft for my taste but it's a good quality surface. Keep painting!
Thanks great video. I've tried most of the ones you showed. And just recently some one gave me paper they didn't like but I did like it. Richeson's Unison Premium Pastel Surface and does accept wet washes.
Yes Richeson's paper has a very rough grit, and is able to take any wash you throw on it. It's a bit too rough for my liking, but definately a quality surface. Keep painting!
Very helpful video on types of paper. I am attempting to learn pasteling and have landscape selection of Rembrandt soft pastels and have Pastel Premier 9x12 Grit Medium 145lb / 310 gsm. Have done a landscape with a light was using alcohol and now doing the layering of colors. I've noticed that my poor finger is now raw from all the rubbing! Is there something I can use to save my finger like small piece of leather or something to get the same effect on the paper? Or do I need to just develop a callus?!
Thanks so much Alain! I always enjoy your formative pastel posts. I think you are so selfless with your coaching and support of the greater pastel community. God Bless you Sir.
Have you ever used, or what might you be able to tell me about Canson Mi-Teintes art board? I picked up a couple of sheets of it (champagne color) @ Hobby Lobby on sale for .34 ea., and thought, for that price, I'd try it which I haven't done yet. Since the color is so light, I'm wondering if it would accept a water or solvent underpainting.
Thanks Alain, have not tried the LeCarte paper will try!! UART is my favorite and I love the LeFontaine did not like using alcohol underpainting. Because, the alcohol seemed to compromise the grit of the paper. I have filled about 3-4 of these booklets. My paintings seemed to improve once I started using UART 400 grit. Colofix is OK, but I love my UART. The Dakota sanded board has a great surface as well with a beautiful terra cotta colorway. I think these boards are exclusively produced by Dakota art store. So much fun in checking out new products!! thank you
You look lovely...You speak lovely...This is very informative what you just said....Thank you dear....The pictures on the wall behind you are beautiful ... You are a great Artist ....
You’re not mentioning velour paper at all in your video. What is you opinion on that? I see it’s mentioned in some books about pastel painting, but not a lot of people seem to be using it. Can velour paper take an under painting with water?
Hi Alain, I am a new beginner in using oil pastel soft as well as using the underpainting techniques of different mediums. I find your ways of applying strokes interesting as it builds up the colors in a unique way. I use the coded paper Tela 300 gms/m2-140lbs from Fabriano, its good also. By the way, after watching your video on watercolor and alcohol underpainting and applying the oil pastels, I didnt see what happen next. Did you blend the colours or left it as is. I want to watch the continuation of those videos if there is. Thank you for sharing your talents.
Aaditya, the surface is just like sand paper. a fine grit that holds the pigment. It is not rough like a cold press watercolor paper, that has alot of texture. So it's gritty but uniform.
@@aadityaaaryansoni8406 the pastel can't build up as much unless there is some kind of tooth. You can built a couple layers on drawing paper, but not a painterly buildup. Canson Mi-Teintes is a good paper for pastel that isn't coated.
Thank you very much. I work in oil pastel , mainly Sennelier oil pastels. La Carte is beautiful but devours oil pastel so Sennelier oil pastel card is a great substitute. Colourfix Smooth works reasonably well but I’m eager to try regular regular colourfix. Would you compare the tooth to Clairefontaine or is it closer to LaCarte ? I know I’m using a different medium but we use most of the same papers. Any advice would be appreciated.
Am I the only one who would buy and paint on Kleenex if he recommended it? What a voice! Thanks Alain for this info!
I would never tell you to paint on Kleenex, but I might recommend rubbing or blending with it! I'm glad my voice helps you listen in. That's very kind.
You’re not alone!!!
Hahahaha No you are not alone! I feel about his voice the way I felt about Alan Rickman's voice when I first heard him. Divine!
@@alanabelcon , Alan Rickman could have sat on a stool reading the phone book and I would have listened, such a smooooooth sultry voice.
Very soothing and confident voice indeed!!🧘 Makes me want to put all my art supplies on the table and be creatieve !✍️🖌️🎨🖍️🎨 Alan, if you would talk about food and ingredients with the same voice...woow...weightwatchers would have a new client in me...🤭😄😄 Thank you for your useful video's!🤗🌸
I recently purchased a sanded paper and I am amazed at the difference! Thank you for your demonstrations and product reviews. Always helpful.
Thank you. I needed a good explanation of many of the papers.
Glad I could help!
Thank you for the great video. Really enjoy your teaching style. Please keep the beginner pastel lessons coming. Love the helpful info sheets and have started a notebook for them.
Would like to see video on techniques.
Thank you Linda, I am glad you are enjoying the videos and putting those resource sheets to good use! Stay tuned, as there is more to come. Keep painting!
Thank you for sharing you great knowledge about Pastel papers…
You're very welcome Cheryll! Glad you enjoyed.
damn, I bought pastell to get into art cheaply, now i need $100 paper xD
Thank you for posting. I buy Uart by the roll and have 400, 500, 600 and 800 grit. I like the rolls as they provide a versatile stock, cutting the paper to whatever size I need. You do need to mount to a board though to eliminate any curl. Or alternatively you can cut to size and then let it relax with a wash and then let it dry flat.
Have you tried Fabriano's Taziano paper? It has a laid surface on one side and a smoother side. I use that as well as Canson's Mi-Teintes for studies.
Yes I have tried Fabriano, but really just for tonal sketching, not so much pastel. it's got a lovely laid texture. I have a roll of UART 400 for my large work. I love it! I don't tend to venture above 500, as the finer grits can't support my heavy hand I guess. It's so great that one can select their preferred grit though, such an advantage. All the best!
@@AlainPicard Heavy hand? It looks like you tickle the pastel onto the paper, very thoughtful and painterly. I seem to always go for too much detail and probably should have someone looking over my shoulder to say "Stop". :-)
Hello Alan. From México. Recently "discover" pastel. I have many questions, like this, the paper. Thanks For this video. The paper color: why use blue or gray or green or other?
Thank you!
Has anyone tried Mineral paper?
The texture is sandpaper like... an odd paper as its rocks and plastic...🤔
I still don't understand how Pastelmat can take so many layers with it being so smooth
IF YOU DISPLAY THE SPELLING OF PAPER WOULD BE GREAT BECUASE THE SPELLING OF PAPER IS IMPORTSNT FOR PURCHSING.
Hi Sultan, you can download my paper guide here: mailchi.mp/138008bc96c4/pastel-paper
Hi Alain: About two years ago, I wrote a short note to you, thank you for your excellent tutorials and I wanted to thank you once again. Pastel painting is now the air that I breathe and keeps me always wanting more. It's been 3 years now that Pastels have kept me alive. Sometimes my instructor has to 'be my hands' as my peripheral neuropathy can be depilating. I now have 9 Paintings under my belt and about 5 on a waiting. It's taken longer as my cancer can keep me weeks to get back up and running. I purchased the 3M glue and watched your mounting video. I plan on mounting about 10 boards today.
I just wanted to say thank you once again
what a beautiful story of coming into your creative gifts, Amy, thanks for sharing. I'm so glad to encourage your creative growth. Hey, I have a free workshop this week if you want to join us and feel strong enough to participate. you can find out about it here: learn.picardstudio.com/workshop-fall-22
Lol a man with such a FRENCH name butchering Mi Teintes? It's pronounced MEE Tant (s is silent). Means mid-shades in French
Hi there...great video...well organized and I concur with all your comments 🙂 The only couple of minor points I would have added is that Sennelier Lacarte (the first sanded paper I encountered) shouldn’t be used for plein air work. Sometimes it rains and bitter experience has shown me that a great piece can rapidly descend into a mess of white blobs if it does. You talk about washes and that is all true. Sometimes Mother Nature gives you an unintended wash. Also, I find that Uart paper can sometimes accept pastel unevenly, especially if you are using a light touch. An underpainting helps but if you like to use the gold colour as a toned surface and hence want to build up light layers I find that it can be resistant to an even application. I very much enjoy your presentations. Your calm delivery makes it easy to follow and retain the information.
Great points, thanks for sharing them Patricia. I move from a light to a rather heavy touch, so I haven't struggled with the uneven surface of UART in my approach. So true about the LaCarte, just not a stable surface for outdoor work! I should have said that. Keep painting!
Patricia Lindley oh, yeah Mother Nature rains on you,; blows the easel over and precious sticks are dust. Took a work shop in NC. Grandfather mountain is sure a challenge.
Thanks for another great video, Mr. Picard!
In addition to the great products that you listed, another surface that I enjoy is Ampersand Pastelbord. It’s a coated board that comes in a variety of colors and sizes with a fine tooth. In my opinion, it’s quality and very affordable.
It’s a very rigid board similar to MDF. It takes all manner of washes and can even be run under a faucet to completely clean it off for “do overs”.
Ampersand is a great surface for durability and grit, thanks James!
Hi Master, can you help me? What paper I must use to do realistic portarias? (I as this because the fine details)
Try Pastelmat for a smoother surface that can build up great layers of pastel. Try UART 600 grit for a fine grit portrait surface if you want alot of fine detail.
Newbie here.. thank you for this video. I have seen several of these brands listed and now understand why they cost significantly more.. these would be "gallery-approved" papers?
What is the reccomended paper weight/GSM for quality paper in terms of oil pastel? If it's high quality paper can they be thinner and still as effective (with consideration to those that can not take liquids)? I am practicing on Strathmore Drawing paper 70lb/114gsm and for final work the Strathmore 400 Pastel which is 118gsm/80lb. I noticed the Strathmore has more tooth and can hold more layers which makes sense. So far I am not adding water or any other solvent. I beleive bc I have oil pastel (Mungyo) I am not supposed to add solvent..
Hi Alain, What do you think about the Hahnemühle Velour paper?
There is a new paper, Maiamoufin. Have you come across it?
I have not yet tried it, thanks for sharing, I will have to order some and give it a good workout!
great review, thankyou. but i still dont understand what type of paper or grade/grit is best for blending pastels on?
I love 400 grit, it is the most popular and versatile. Higher grits are smoother and take less layering. Lower grits are rougher and eat up the pastels more. Hope that helps!
@@AlainPicard yes it does thankyou
I may have the last surviving roll of Wallis!! However, it's the professional grade and not the museum grade, like my previous roll. It's so tightly curled that it's barely usable and would be a nightmare to frame. Good to know that there's a similar paper!!
What about Hahnemühle Velour paper vs Pastelcard, Pastelmat and Uart paper? And I would like some videos from you about optimal fixatives and how they alter the tones and colors? Thanks for the vids.
H E L P - That was wonderful BUT since I'm totally new to pastels, it doesn't answer my question. What is the best to use for my needs, and most archival of all the papers to do serious pastel portraits on to sell to my art customers? And what spray fixative can I use that won't change the color values and shadings in any way that might change a portrait?
One question-I would love to hear if there are any thought processes to the color paper one picks out. Maybe its a silly question- Is it just the opposite of the colors you will be using in your painting? TY. So many pretty pastel color papers. I do get confused.
Great info! I have just started with pastels and am using 400/600 grit waterproof sandpaper from the hardware store - have you used it and how does it compare to these more expensive papers? I am really enjoying your tutorials!
You’re funny. But I’m turned on by the idea of having those papers. Pastels materials fawn be pricey.
Also the canson paper is pronounced more like Me Tawnts - it’s French. Otherwise a great video!
Thank you!
I am completely new to soft pastels, like they’re still shipping to me new.
I just want to get into them so bad. I don’t paint with pastels or paint landscapes, and I’m feeling the pull in this direction.
I have to change things up all the time. It’s party because I’m an art teacher, but this I just NEED!
Thank you for the info❤️
hey it's my pleasure Robin, thanks for being an art teacher! Enjoy this wonderful medium of pastel!
Thanks for another great video. I use a lot of Pastelmat, La Carte, and velour for my wildlife works. Another super sanded paper: Fisher 400. Now I will have to give Uart a whirl. If it's your numero uno, then it must be pretty darn good. Thanks again
Thanks Tina, I have heard great things about Fisher 400 I will have to test it out sometime soon. Yes, I love that UART paper, especially mounted to board. It's wonderful. All the best to you!
FROM DISPLAY OF BOARD I COULD NOT FIGURE OUT THE EXACT NAME. THEREFORE REQUESTING TO DISPLY THE NAME.
It's on his apron, I was frustrated as well until I noticed the apron 🙁 but the other names seemed to be purposely put on a bad angle...my guess is that he wants us to download that list of the names but to download the list you need to give your email information which I'm guessing he's selling to someone
I am just starting and using Winsor and Newton paper earth tones. I like the tone and it has a regular texture. I’m not sure if it handles washes tho I need to try.
Thanks for posting this! I like the PastelMat paper. I bought a pad of the Uart sanded paper and it has all curled up so as to be unusable. ☹ I wonder if I could glue it down onto mat board or something?
I've found the new Lux Archival paper from Brush and Pencil is VERY NICE (takes solvent and multiple layers with ease). I'm a pencil artist mainly but dabbling in pastel. Wanted to get a less expensive paper as the Lux is a little pricey for learning on. very helpful review: Thanks!
Lux Archival is a wonderful new surface!
Helpful information, thanks! I like pastelmat and also good quality velour, especially for animal portraits. By the way, the pronunciation of the Canson paper puzzled me for years. I finally looked it up and it is pronounced "Mee-TONT" (as in font or Tonto). French for "mid-tone," I believe. ☺
Thanks for the information
Mee-TONT! That's awesome, I always feel self-concious while pronouncing the word, which I knew wasn't quite right. I love it, now I can declare it with assertion. Well done, thanks!
Sure, but you say Sennelier with perfection. Extra points! LOL
You're welcome @@sujanithtottempudi2991 !
Thanks @@MissTinaTv !
I’m wondering what your thoughts are on Fisher 400 and Hahnemuhle Velour papers. Thank you. ~ Deanna
Hello sir,i dont know that you will see my video or not. I am a big fan of your paintings. I also draw a lot of pictures, i want to show to you. Will you see
Hi Alain. I'm new to pastel painting and come from using watercolours for the last few years. I found this video very helpful. I have a steep learning curve in this new medium. I am really enjoying it.
You should try Lux Archival Sanded Paper because it takes watercolor washes beautifully, then you can add soft pastel over the top for an amazing combination! Enjoy your creative journey!
Have you ever used Strathmore pastel paper? It doesn't seem like many artists like this paper but it's the only kind I've tried so far. If I use my hand to blend that first layer the initial stronger strokes layer on top. I'd like to just layer and layer but they just muddy together unless I kinda blend that first layer down. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Alan. Great tips for different papers. However, I need to find out where and how do I get som of the oversized, extra large charcoal or pastel drawing papers without spending a fortune. Your helpful thoughts and ideas are highly appreciated.
Thanks for valuable opinion Alan. I tried few of the papers you had mentioned but now I'm in real love with Uart and Pastelmat. Superb. As you had very well mentioned....difficult to blend pastelmat...UART 400 grit , dark...is my favourite . Meteintes touch....does not take much layers....but blends beautifully with colorshapers... I had love hate relation with pastels because of lack of knowledge about papers and pastel brands...after watching Jason Morgan...i learnt a lot...many beginners will bless you Alan. Thanks again🙏🙏
Jason Morgan is a great teacher. I've learned so much from his tutorials. I started with pastels and learned so much, however, watching many of Alain Picard's tutorials on the Artists Network.
I'm teaching myself soft pastels, with the help of you and other artists who are generous with UA-cam content. Wanted to say Thank you for that!
This video is so helpful, especially in regard to what solvents the various papers can stand up to for underpaintings (I've not yet tried a wet underpainting, only hard pastel drawings). I've tried several papers, and find sanded papers (Pastelmat, Pastel Premier, UArt) are my favorites, although I do really enjoy the Strathmore toned sketchbooks and Canson Mi-Teintes. I love to watch the pictures 'emerge' from the toned backgrounds in the Strathmore sketchbooks.
I've used Colourfix, Uart, Pastelmat, and Touch and enjoyed all of them. I haven't tried Pastel Card or Premier yet. What do you think of Hahnnelmule Velour?
I'd love to know this too!
Hi James and Linda, thanks for asking! I haven't used Velour much, as I don't personally enjoy that really velvety soft surface, I'm a fan of the toothy grit of sanded papers. I know other excellent artists like Emma Colbert (check out her UA-cam channel) who love Velour. Perhaps you can learn from her on that one. It's just not my style. All the best!
Yes @@cherylparr8302 I think I'd lean more toward PastelMat then Velour if I needed that finish. It is an amazing surface. But hey, whatever facilitates an artist's unique style is the right surface, don't you think?! All the best to you in your continued creative work!
Velour paper is wonderful for animal portraits. The Hahnnemule is great quality. But velour is very unforgiving so you can't make too many mistakes! 🙂
Have you tried Lux Archival? I really love this paper.
What did pastelists in the olden times use? Did they have access to capable surfaces?
Thank you for this information. I would love to try the Claire Fontaine, but I can't afford it at the moment. What would be your second choice? How does the pastel gesso compare to the Claire Fontaine?
Pastel primer is a great way to create your own toothy surfaces. It allows you to create some texture and brushy marks with the primer too. Different than the smooth pastelmat paper that holds the pastel incredibly well, but very effective!
Thanks for this information! I am a beginner with pastels and overwhelmed with the paper choices. I've learned a little along the way, and your information has also helped. I have been enjoying practicing on regular old hardware sand paper 400 and 600 grit (I learned not to get the "no clog" sand paper) and now am wanting to find an artist grade sanded paper than mimics that texture. I have tried to use other papers with adding my own clear gesso, but have not been as happy with that result. It sounds like UART may be the choice for me. Thanks again!
Nanette Richards UART is perfect for you! All the best to you
I can’t find the link ! 😂
You can get your pastel paper supply list here: mailchi.mp/138008bc96c4/pastel-paper
I don't know who did your subtitles, but they turned canson mi teintes into "cans on my taints!"😮 Yeowzah!!😂😂😂
Hah! they are auto-generated, so we can thank Google for that masterpiece!
Thanks for watching. Get your pastel paper supply list here: mailchi.mp/138008bc96c4/pastel-paper
Thank you so much for the info/ I am a beginner with pastels and love them🥰
You're so welcome Donna, now have fun and enjoy the medium!
Thank you for getting a you tube channel and making videos regularly now. I've learned so much from you since I started pastel painting. Would love a video on your style of painting. I noticed you make straight marks many times. Love the way you teach slowly. Easy to follow you.. Thx for taking the time to make these great video's 🤗 Btw.. it would be great if you came to Miami, Fl. and had a workshop and maybe u can even make a vacation out of it!
Thanks Belinda, appreciate your kind remarks. I'd love to find a way to Miami for a workshop sometime! Always looking for organizations that will host me. And I'll continue to create more videos, so stay tuned! Keep painting
Does anyone know what color of paper is best for potrait❤
Great advice. Clear explanation of the differences. Thank you.
I love the colorfix and use the primers on watercolour paper to make my own
I was thinking about doing the same thing, glad to hear that works out for you.
Oops, I was speaking of the “Touch” paper which I am unable to work with. Amber I should use it for sketching?
I found this very useful. Do you have a video onhow to protect your final painting? I could not find it in your channel.
I don't have a framing video here, but you can frame it behind an AR glass for final protection. You can place your pastel art in a clear bag for temporary protection and carrying. All my best!
Thank you for the information. I’m a complete newbie. The definition of an amateur and this has given me a beginning. Also great voice. You should do voice overs. A second career 🤔
Can you use alcohol or water washes on the Canson Touch?
What fixative do you use with pastels?
I have used Pastel Premier, Uart, Colourfix and Wallis. Pastel Premier and Colourfix are my favorites at this point. My Wallis supply is limited and they are 9x12 only. I do find Uart and Wallis close in the ability to take pastel application well. Never tried Pastel Card - sort of concerned about water getting on it and ruining it before getting it finished. Might have to give it a try though. I have used the Canson Mi-Tientes (not Touch) for a couple of projects - very blended ones - which allow a little more layering. I don't blend much on the other papers though. Really appreciate your videos and comments. Love your art as well. Dick Blick, Jerry's and Cheap Joes are my goto sources!
Thanks Don, you are fortunate to still have a bit of Wallis left, enjoy it while it lasts! Most importantly, keep painting!
You commenters are cracking me up!! 😂
You did not cover pastelbord which I love. I can use solvents and it has good tooth and easy to frame.
Ruth, you are so right, I missed that one. It's a great surface for all those reasons!
I am just getting more absorbed into pastels and really understanding that the paper makes the biggest difference
I just bought some lux archival sheets and they are so amazing; The paper is a teacher in itself because it allows you to experiment more with layering and blending
that is really an amazing surface, thanks for sharing!
Before Kitty Wallis went out of business, I bought a very large roll of Kitty Wallis white. I expect to use it for the rest of my days doing pastels. What would you recommend is the best thing to use as a surface color that will not rub off on my hand or be picked up by pastels that I’m using on that paper? Is there a particular spray color that would work well and still leave me that beautiful tooth that I love so much.? Also, I bought a pad of colored Mi Tientes and found it did not hold the softer pastels. I like to layer a lot! My Wallis I love for that but I would like to underpaint on it. Suggestions?
Hi Nancy, if I understand you correctly, you want to stain your Wallis paper a color but still have all the tooth left. That is what underpainting accomplishes. Wallis works just like UART essentially, except for if you have the paper that needs to avoid alcohol washes. I have a whole series of underpainting videos that you can get free on my website here: picardstudio.com so check it out!
Thank you so much for this valuable video on the variety of papers available for pastels. Love this information; it saves time and money for beginning pastel artists. Nothing wrong with hit and miss experience but this information was so helpful to me. And thank you for responding so quickly to questions regarding pastels, pastel papers, techniques and your wonderful pastel lessons.
You are very welcome Louise, thanks for appreciating! So glad I can save you some time and money so you don't have to learn by trial and error, it's hard enough to learn to paint! Stay tuned, and I'm honored to be of some encouragement.
Hi Alain thank you for this information, is gatorboard the same as foamcore (I am french) what is difference thank you, Happy New Year to you and family
lol it changed video while I was writting lol love mounting board video as well
@@lyneqc7805 no worries. Gatorboard is harder than foam core. It is light and does not warp. You can use 4ply or 8ply Museum board as an alternative that is archival. That works great as well if you can't find Gatorboard. All my best!
Best explanation of paper for pastels I have ever heard. Pastels are so new to me…. I really appreciate it! Thank you so much! 10:31
My pleasure, keep painting!
You only showed extremely expensive materials. There is no way a beginner can start with such expensive materials.
I’ve quickly learned that soft pastel art is one of the more expensive arts to learn 😂. Materials are $$$$
I mean… it is what it is. If you want to work on an unsanded paper that’s fine but the results will be different. They have their use for sure. There are also ways to make your own so beginners have options. These are what he recommends to work in a rich style. That doesn’t happen on unsanded papers.
I have never been patient enough to wait a couple weeks for an order of Patelmat to arrive. UArt gives me a headache because it often curls and does not lay flat, but otherwise a good paper. Pastel Premier is the one I usually order because it's heavy, good quality and not overly expensive. I have noticed a lot of sheets aren't perfectly flat. Like they are stored poorly or stacked too high, which causes some subtle warping. However, by the time I cover a sheet with pastel, it's not noticeable. With UArt, the page curling is very noticeable after a work is completed. I even live in the desert southwest, so the rumors about it being caused by humidity seem suspect. Clear gesso is a good way to convert any surface to a pastel friendly surface. Though you have to go easy with your brushstrokes or you will get a lot of that texture in your final painting. The gesso method doesn't quite grab the pastel as well as paper, but you can get about the same results. Good if you want to convert a "bord" to a pastel surface. Then you don't have any issues with curling or warping.
Curling is not an issue if you mount all your canvases before using. Whether that be on masonite, a favorite or just poster board. It's very time consuming but makes everything much easier:-) I often buy in bulk and it comes in a roll. Good luck.
Another Great Video Alain! I've used Pastelmat and Art spectrums paper a lot , I do have a sample pack
of Uart paper, which I will try now,, Looking for that painterly look! Thank you again
Thanks Maureen, and keep painting! Mark-making is a key element in the painterly style, so just try to make bolder, looser marks without cleaning them up and see how you do! All the best to you
Hi Alain, another very useful video! I normally use Canson Mi-Teintes, it's because I have some low grade pastels. I will upgrade both soon. I will probably buy either Sennelier paper or the high quality Canson sand paper. Thank you for sharing. Take care 😊
Thanks Azzu, and like I said, Canson is a great paper to experiment and practice on, it just doesn't hold lots of layers. Try a sample of the Canson Touch sometime to see the difference. Enjoy!
I started with Pastel Premier and love it. I have successfully used it with alcohol, but I guess didn’t get it soaked.
I do have one question that no one seems to have an answer to. Why do all of the pastel paper companies make the precut papers and boards in 9x12? It’s such an odd size for framing or even with mats. Any idea?
No, I wish I knew, too. One can always work smaller. 9x12 is a standard size and I use it because so much paper comes that size. A top pastel painter did tell me, tho, at the crits the PSA has on Materials Day in Sept., to be taken seriously, use another size - not 9x12.
The paper can easily be cut down to fit an 8x10 frame, but those boards aren’t so forgiving. Thanks for the PSA tip.
Alan...have you used Multimedia Pastel art board? I just purchased and really enjoy....also how about the Ampersand pastel board? Thanks.
This was incredibly helpful. The many choices are overwhelming and not inexpensive - you really made the choices so clear. Thank you.
my pleasure! Keep painting
Hi Alain, I wondered what you thought of using Golden Pastel Ground on matte board? I have used it for mixed media but would love to know your thoughts on this for pure pastels and finished pastel works?
I think the Golden Pastel Ground is great. That is a very good solution for preparing a surface. Have fun with textures and brushstrokes with the ground!
Excellent presentation! Thank you.
Appreciate it Andrew, all the best to you. Keep painting!
The paper you use is the most important factor in how your painting will come out. You can get great results in many papers and each has their best use case. There are sample packs available from Dakota pastels, Jackson’s, and other art supply shops. You can also make your own with clear gesso and pumice.
Clairefontaine Pastelmat is great and I do love using it but their pads has a default with the paper having some lines where the pastel doesn't stay. They are aware of this as they have been contacted (by people from my class), we've been assured that they were looking into it but months later I'm still buying new pads having this default (across colours and sizes). There is a trick to get rid of these which is to lightly apply a wet sponge across the surface, but for the price of the paper, I expect more from them
Hi, I am a bit confused, could you please tell me what paper do I have to use? I was painting pastel in my back country but I can't find it in Amazon because I don't know the correct name. Is any body can help me to know the correct name for pastel paper. I Used to paint on a velvet paper, please help me, thanks
Hi Sn Sn, I have created a Pastel Paper Guide that you can download here: mailchi.mp/138008bc96c4/pastel-paper
@@AlainPicard Dear Alain,
Many thanks for your prompt respond. Actually, my wife and I watch your clips from you tube and quite like them, you have created very good video clips and we are really pleased to find you. The matter is my wife has painted some painting in my back country. She joined me recently to the UK and wants to start to paint dry pastel. We both do not know the name of the paper and even when I search it from Amazon or anywhere I can't find it because I am sure that we are not typing the correct name for dry pastel paper. I bought some A3 pastel paper from WHSmith but they are not the correct one. She used a French paper, Please help us to find the correct one. Many thanks ,
She used a pastel paper with velvet texture. I would be really grateful if you guide us what is the name of the pastel paper and where we can buy it from?
@@snsn5128 Perhaps you can try Clairefontaine Pastelmat. It is wonderful french paper. Not quite a velvet touch like Velour is, but smooth and excellent adhesion for soft pastel. Search for Pastelmat. It comes in many colors. Another surface I love is Sennelier LaCarte Card, it is coated and has a lovely tooth. all the best
Thank you so much, Alain. I knew nothing about pastel papers and now after this short video I have a good understanding of what I need. I'm so grateful for this knowledge. I was about to use watercolor paper I have on hand but now i know better. I'm new at pastels being an oil painter all my life. I'm tired of waiting for paint to dry and love the intense colors of pastels. I'm so excited, now I need some nice coated sanded mounted paper to work on!! Thanks again, Love, Joan Williamson
Will faber castell pitt pasel pencils work on smooth bristol??? I'm halfway into an art project and wanted to try faber castell pitt pastels pencils to create the sky. The reason is that the project is 4ft long and was hoping that the pitt pastels would move me along faster. Please advise.
I have not tried them on smooth bristol, you'll have to test it. They have a fine point, so it isn't the fastest tool, very precise. All the best!
@@AlainPicard Thank you so much for replying I will be testing it out on Thursday. I'll have to let you know how it works. Fingers crossed!
Well I have to say the Faber Castell pastel pitt pencils work quite well on smooth Bristol paper I had 4 ft of sunset to do with one foot left. I'll finish that on Sunday. It creates quite a smooth creamy finish. Didn't use much of the pencils and was fairly quick to apply and blend. Conclusion is that I'm pleasantly surprised. Faber Castell pastel pit pencils work fine on smooth Bristol paper! Mission accomplished. Using the polychromos would have taken me forever.
What a wonderful video. I'm new to oil pastel and boy is this a fun medium! My frustration with most of these specialty papers is that it's a nightmare to find anything bigger than 50 cm x 70 cm. I like doing very large works in alcohol markers. It took me a long time to find very large (larger than A1 size) bristol board that is both archival and acid free. I eventually found some from an industry printing paper supplier and it is better than anything available in art stores for use with markers. Also because it's not an "art supply" it's wonderfully cheap (about $4 AUD in 420 gsm). I'm in Australia and I had no idea that art spectrum made that pastel gesso. This is fantastic news as it means I can use the large boards that I use my for marker works and get a top quality pastel paper in whatever colour I choose in whatever size I choose. Thanks so much.
Thank you so much for this great discussion of different types of pastel papers. For someone who is just starting and is sure to make a lot of mistakes while learning the techniques, what inexpensive paper, preferably a small pad, would you suggest?
You can blend on pastelmat paper once you have a number of coats of pastel on. I love how this paper grabs the pastel and there is no dust to contend with. It takes awhile to get used to but then you are going to love it.
Thank you Pat, i am going to try working on it some more!
Good Afternoon 🤓✌
I just subscribed to your channel 👍
I haven't played with pastels since my childhood and my children's childhood.
Needless to say, I am an "old" beginner lol.
I am enjoying this video but it's already over my head.
Would you be offering an introduction to pastels aka 101 class?
I have been feeling intimidated to even open my pastels up 😊
I see that I might not be ready for your channel yet?
Would you recommend a channel for step by step pastel beginners?
I don't know where to begin.
Also would you recommend a paper for beginners to practice on before starting a project?
Sincerely Thank you!
Namaste
Annie
I would also like to know what you think about Velour.
It is not my preferred surface for the painterly style, I think it lends itself to subtle blending and very soft effects more than bold mark-making. See Emma Colbert's UA-cam Channel as she uses Velour masterfully. It's too plush and soft for my taste but it's a good quality surface. Keep painting!
@@AlainPicard thank you for your reply!
Thanks great video. I've tried most of the ones you showed. And just recently some one gave me paper they didn't like but I did like it. Richeson's Unison Premium Pastel Surface and does accept wet washes.
Yes Richeson's paper has a very rough grit, and is able to take any wash you throw on it. It's a bit too rough for my liking, but definately a quality surface. Keep painting!
Very helpful video on types of paper. I am attempting to learn pasteling and have landscape selection of Rembrandt soft pastels and have Pastel Premier 9x12 Grit Medium 145lb / 310 gsm. Have done a landscape with a light was using alcohol and now doing the layering of colors. I've noticed that my poor finger is now raw from all the rubbing! Is there something I can use to save my finger like small piece of leather or something to get the same effect on the paper? Or do I need to just develop a callus?!
Awesome video! Thank you for making this video! I agree with everything you said!
Thanks Leora, enjoy your next painting!
Thanks so much Alain! I always enjoy your formative pastel posts. I think you are so selfless with your coaching and support of the greater pastel community. God Bless you Sir.
Really appreciate that thanks!
@@AlainPicard The pleasure is mine Alain! You do superb work as well Sir! A true master 👍🏼
Have you ever used, or what might you be able to tell me about Canson Mi-Teintes art board? I picked up a couple of sheets of it (champagne color) @ Hobby Lobby on sale for .34 ea., and thought, for that price, I'd try it which I haven't done yet. Since the color is so light, I'm wondering if it would accept a water or solvent underpainting.
Thanks Alain, have not tried the LeCarte paper will try!! UART is my favorite and I love the LeFontaine did not like using alcohol underpainting. Because, the alcohol seemed to compromise the grit of the paper. I have filled about 3-4 of these booklets. My paintings seemed to improve once I started using UART 400 grit. Colofix is OK, but I love my UART. The Dakota sanded board has a great surface as well with a beautiful terra cotta colorway. I think these boards are exclusively produced by Dakota art store. So much fun in checking out new products!! thank you
You look lovely...You speak lovely...This is very informative what you just said....Thank you dear....The pictures on the wall behind you are beautiful ... You are a great Artist ....
Very informative, I appreciate your helpful comments.
You’re not mentioning velour paper at all in your video. What is you opinion on that? I see it’s mentioned in some books about pastel painting, but not a lot of people seem to be using it. Can velour paper take an under painting with water?
Hi Alain, I am a new beginner in using oil pastel soft as well as using the underpainting techniques of different mediums. I find your ways of applying strokes interesting as it builds up the colors in a unique way. I use the coded paper Tela 300 gms/m2-140lbs from Fabriano, its good also. By the way, after watching your video on watercolor and alcohol underpainting and applying the oil pastels, I didnt see what happen next. Did you blend the colours or left it as is. I want to watch the continuation of those videos if there is. Thank you for sharing your talents.
is pastel paper surface rough?
Please reply
Aaditya, the surface is just like sand paper. a fine grit that holds the pigment. It is not rough like a cold press watercolor paper, that has alot of texture. So it's gritty but uniform.
@@AlainPicard Can I use normal paper instead of pastel paper for the painting
And thank you for replying
@@aadityaaaryansoni8406 the pastel can't build up as much unless there is some kind of tooth. You can built a couple layers on drawing paper, but not a painterly buildup. Canson Mi-Teintes is a good paper for pastel that isn't coated.
@@AlainPicard Okay, thanks a lot.
Thank you very much. I work in oil pastel , mainly Sennelier oil pastels. La Carte is beautiful but devours oil pastel so Sennelier oil pastel card is a great substitute. Colourfix Smooth works reasonably well but I’m eager to try regular regular colourfix. Would you compare the tooth to Clairefontaine or is it closer to LaCarte ? I know I’m using a different medium but we use most of the same papers. Any advice would be appreciated.
Hi.. thank u for sharing. it is very helpfull for me as a beginner. Salam kenal, love form Indonesia