When venturing into the vibrant world of pastel art, one of the most critical decisions an artist faces is selecting the right surface. The paper you choose significantly impacts how your pastels perform, affecting everything from color saturation and layering capabilities to blending and overall finished appearance. Understanding the characteristics that make the best paper for pastel art can transform your creative process and the quality of your artwork.
Why Paper Choice Matters for Pastel Art
Pastels, whether soft, hard, oil, or pastel pencils, rely on a surface with a certain amount of ‘tooth’ to grab and hold the pigment. Unlike paints that absorb into the paper or adhere smoothly, pastels deposit dry pigment particles onto the surface. Without adequate tooth, the pastel slips, failing to build up layers or achieve rich colors. Therefore, choosing the best paper for pastel art is not merely a preference but a fundamental technical requirement.
The right paper allows for multiple layers of pastel, enabling artists to create depth, intricate details, and smooth transitions. It also prevents the pigment from smudging excessively and helps in achieving the desired textural effects. A poor paper choice can lead to frustration, limited artistic expression, and a less impactful final piece.
Key Characteristics of the Best Paper For Pastel Art
Several factors contribute to making a paper ideal for pastel work. Considering these characteristics will guide you in finding the best paper for pastel art that suits your individual needs and artistic style.
Tooth and Texture
The ‘tooth’ refers to the surface texture of the paper. It’s the microscopic peaks and valleys that grip the pastel pigment. Papers with more tooth can hold more pastel layers, allowing for greater depth and richer color. Conversely, smoother papers offer less grip but can be excellent for delicate details or specific blending techniques.
Weight and Durability
Paper weight, typically measured in grams per square meter (gsm) or pounds (lb), indicates its thickness and durability. Heavier papers (e.g., 160 gsm / 90 lb and above) are more robust, less prone to buckling, and can withstand the pressure of repeated pastel application and blending without tearing or showing wear. The best paper for pastel art often has a substantial weight to maintain its integrity.
Color of the Paper
The color of your pastel paper is not just a background; it can become an integral part of your artwork. A toned paper can influence the entire mood of a piece, acting as a mid-tone or providing a harmonious underpainting. Many artists prefer working on toned papers rather than white, as it helps in judging values and allows for highlights and shadows to truly pop. Experimenting with different paper colors is an excellent way to discover new artistic possibilities.
Archival Quality
For artworks intended to last, archival quality is paramount. This means the paper is acid-free and lignin-free, preventing it from yellowing, becoming brittle, or degrading over time. Using archival paper ensures that your pastel art retains its original vibrancy and integrity for decades to come.
Popular Types of Paper for Pastel Art
Many specialized papers are designed with pastel artists in mind. Here are some of the best paper for pastel art options available:
Sanded Pastel Paper
Sanded papers are perhaps the most popular choice among professional pastel artists. They feature a fine grit surface, similar to sandpaper, which provides an incredible amount of tooth. This allows for numerous layers of pastel, intense color saturation, and a high degree of control. Brands like UArt, Canson Mi-Teintes Touch, and Sennelier La Carte are highly regarded in this category. They are excellent for artists who love to build up rich, vibrant layers.
Velour Paper
Velour paper has a soft, velvety surface that feels luxurious. It holds pastel pigment beautifully, creating a very soft, diffused, and almost painterly effect. While it offers less tooth for sharp details, it’s superb for portraits, animal fur, or any subject requiring a delicate, blended finish. However, be aware that blending on velour can be challenging due to its unique texture.
Ingres Paper
Ingres paper is a traditional choice, characterized by its laid lines (fine parallel lines created during manufacturing) and subtle texture. It offers a moderate tooth, suitable for a range of pastel techniques, from delicate layering to more expressive marks. It’s often acid-free and comes in a variety of beautiful tones, making it a versatile option for many artists seeking the best paper for pastel art.
Canson Mi-Teintes Paper
Canson Mi-Teintes is a widely recognized and accessible pastel paper. It’s a gelatin-sized, pulp-dyed paper with two distinct surfaces: one side has a honeycomb texture, and the other is finely grained. It offers good tooth for pastels and comes in an extensive range of colors. While not as aggressive as sanded papers, it’s a fantastic all-rounder for studies, finished pieces, and artists looking for a reliable and affordable option.
Printmaking and Watercolor Papers
Some artists find success with heavy-weight, cold-press watercolor paper or certain printmaking papers like Rives BFK. These papers often have a natural texture that can hold pastel pigment. While not specifically designed for pastels, their robust nature and subtle tooth can offer interesting textural possibilities for experimental artists.
Choosing the Best Paper For Your Pastel Style
The best paper for pastel art ultimately depends on your personal artistic style and the effects you wish to achieve. Consider these points:
For detailed work and intense layering: Opt for sanded pastel papers. Their high tooth allows for maximum pigment application and sharp details.
For soft, blended effects and portraits: Velour paper can create beautiful, ethereal results, though it requires a different approach to layering.
For versatility and traditional techniques: Ingres or Canson Mi-Teintes offer a good balance of tooth and texture for various styles, from controlled strokes to broader blending.
For experimental or mixed-media approaches: Don’t shy away from trying heavy-weight watercolor or printmaking papers to see how pastels interact with their unique surfaces.
Tips for Working with Pastel Paper
Once you’ve chosen the best paper for pastel art, a few tips can enhance your experience:
Secure your paper: Tape your paper down to a rigid surface to prevent movement while working, especially with more vigorous pastel application.
Work vertically: When possible, work on an easel or at an inclined angle. This allows excess pastel dust to fall away, keeping your colors cleaner.
Protect your finished work: Pastels are delicate. Use a fixative (lightly applied in multiple coats) and frame your artwork under glass, preferably with a mat to prevent the pastel from touching the glass.
Experiment: The only true way to find the best paper for pastel art for you is through experimentation. Try different brands, colors, and textures to discover what truly resonates with your artistic vision.
Conclusion
Selecting the best paper for pastel art is a journey of discovery that significantly influences your creative output. From the gritty texture of sanded papers to the luxurious feel of velour, each surface offers unique advantages for different artistic expressions. By understanding the importance of tooth, weight, color, and archival quality, you can make an informed decision that elevates your pastel paintings. Embrace the opportunity to experiment with various types of paper, allowing your pastels to truly shine and your artistic voice to be heard.