If you're looking for the best paper for soft pastels, you've come to the right place. Choosing the right paper is essential for creating beautiful and long-lasting pastel artwork. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why it's important to consider a few key factors before making your purchase.
Firstly, you'll want to consider the texture of the paper. Soft pastels require a rougher surface to hold the pigments effectively. Look for papers that have a toothy or grainy texture, as this will allow the pastels to adhere and blend smoothly. Additionally, the weight of the paper is also crucial. Heavier papers tend to withstand more layers and blending without tearing, so opt for a medium to heavyweight paper for your soft pastels.
Another factor to consider is the color of the paper. While white is a popular choice, there are also a variety of colored papers available. Depending on the effect you want to achieve, colored papers can add depth and interest to your artwork. Lastly, consider the size of the paper. Think about the scale of your artwork and choose a size that suits your needs.
Wondering which paper is the best for your soft pastels? Are there any brands that are highly recommended by professional artists? What about papers that are suitable for beginners? In this article, we will answer all these questions and more. Keep reading to discover the top options for the best paper for soft pastels and unleash your creativity in your next pastel masterpiece.
10 Best Paper For Soft Pastels
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The product is ideal for artists who need high-quality pastel paper for their artwork.
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The product is ideal for creating pastel drawings and artwork with various natural tone paper colors.
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3
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The Canson Artist Series Mi-Teintes Pastel Paper is ideal for pastel artists, both adults and students.
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4
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The Rembrandt Soft Pastel Paper Pad – 11.7" x 8.3", Light Colors is ideal for creating vibrant and delicate pastel artworks.
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5
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The Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is ideal for creating pastel art and drawings with a variety of colors.
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6
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The product is ideal for artists who work with pastels and want to create earth-toned artworks on high-quality paper.
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7
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This product is ideal for creating pastel artwork and is suitable for both adults and students.
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8
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This product is ideal for artists working with oil pastels, hard or soft pastels, and other mixed mediums.
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9
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The product is ideal for artists and individuals who enjoy working with pastels on velour surfaces.
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10
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The Sennelier Pastel Dry Card is ideal for creating vibrant and textured pastel artwork on a variety of surfaces.
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1. Uart Sanded Pastel Paper M-148931 9-Inch/12-Inch No.400 Grade Paper, 10-Pack

Introducing the Uart Pastel Paper, a high-quality art supply that is perfect for artists of all skill levels. With its computer-controlled electrostatic coating process, this paper ensures a consistent grain application, resulting in a smooth and professional finish.
One of the standout features of the Uart Pastel Paper is its pH neutral and acid-free composition. This means that it is not only safe to use but also resistant to yellowing and deterioration over time. Artists can have peace of mind knowing that their artwork will stand the test of time.
What sets the Uart Pastel Paper apart is its versatility. It can accept under painting using a wide variety of media, including water, oil, mineral spirits, turpenoid, and alcohol. This opens up endless possibilities for artists to explore different techniques and experiment with various mediums.
Even after the under painting process, the tooth of the Uart Pastel Paper remains intact, allowing for the application of multiple layers of pastel. This ensures that the artwork remains vibrant and expressive, with the grain securely affixed to the paper.
The Uart Pastel Paper is available in seven different grades, ranging from 240 to 803. This wide range of options allows artists to choose the perfect texture and thickness for their specific needs. Whether you prefer a rougher texture for more pronounced strokes or a smoother surface for finer details, Uart has you covered.
2. Pastel Paper Delight: 9×12 Premium Pad – 32 Sheets

Introducing the Acid Free and Neutral pH Paper Pads, a must-have for every artist's toolkit! Each pack contains not one, but two pads of high-quality paper that will elevate your artistic creations to new heights.
With a total of 8 sheets, you'll have plenty of space to unleash your creativity. The pads feature 4 different natural colortones, with 4 sheets of each color, providing you with a wide range of options to suit your artistic vision.
These paper pads are not limited to just one medium. They are specially designed to be compatible with a variety of materials, including graphite pencil, colored pencil, charcoal, sketching stick, hard or soft pastel, oil pastel, and even other mixed media. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, these pads will cater to all your artistic needs.
One of the standout features of these paper pads is their acid-free and neutral pH composition. This ensures that your artwork remains vibrant and intact over time, without any yellowing or deterioration. Say goodbye to worrying about the longevity of your masterpieces, as these pads are built to preserve the integrity of your artwork for years to come.
The dimensions of each sheet are thoughtfully crafted to provide ample space for your artistic expressions. The pads measure [insert dimensions], allowing you to work on projects of various sizes. From small sketches to larger, more intricate designs, these pads have got you covered.
The paper itself boasts a smooth and durable texture, providing the perfect surface for your chosen medium. Whether you prefer the precision of a graphite pencil or the bold strokes of a pastel, this paper will bring out the best in your artistic techniques.
Invest in the Acid Free and Neutral pH Paper Pads today and experience the joy of creating on high-quality paper that is designed to enhance your artistic journey. With their versatile compatibility, durable composition, and vibrant color options, these pads are an essential addition to any artist's collection. Unleash your creativity and let your imagination run wild with these top-notch paper pads.
3. Earth Tones Pastel Paper: Vibrant & Versatile 12×16" Foldover Pad

Introducing the globally acclaimed choice for pastel, drawing, and paper craft enthusiasts, the Gelatin-Sized Papers. These exceptional papers have earned a well-deserved reputation as the top pick among artists worldwide.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these papers are 50 percent cotton, ensuring a premium quality that is resistant to fading over time. The gelatin sizing further enhances their durability, making them suitable for various artistic techniques and applications.
One of the standout features of these papers is their dual-surfaced design. On one side, you'll find a heavy texture that adds depth and character to your artwork. On the other side, a lighter texture offers a contrasting option for creating different effects, providing you with versatility and creative freedom.
With dimensions of 12 x 16 inches, these papers provide ample space for your artistic endeavors. The weight of 98 pounds (160 grams) ensures a substantial feel, allowing for confident strokes and precise detailing.
Whether you're a professional artist or an enthusiastic beginner, these Gelatin-Sized Papers are a must-have addition to your art supplies. Their exceptional quality, combined with their versatility and durability, make them the perfect choice for pastel work, drawing, and paper craft projects.
Investing in these papers means investing in your artistic journey. Say goodbye to concerns about fading and subpar quality. These papers have been designed to meet the high standards of artists around the world, and they are ready to elevate your artwork to new heights.
Upgrade your art supplies today with the Gelatin-Sized Papers and experience the difference. Unleash your creativity without limitations and enjoy the smooth, reliable performance that these papers offer. Start creating your masterpiece with confidence, knowing that you have chosen a product trusted by artists globally.
4. Winsor & Newton Professional Pastel Paper Pad, 9" X 12", 24 Sheets, 160gsm, Earth Colors

Introducing the Pastel Pad, a versatile and high-quality art paper perfect for artists of all levels. Experience the perfect texture with its grainy and rough surface, designed to offer excellent pigment uptake. Say goodbye to smudging and uneven color distribution, as this paper ensures a smooth and seamless application of your favorite pastels, pencils, charcoal, and other crafts.
One of the standout features of this Pastel Pad is its resistance and durability. Made without any acids or optical brighteners, this paper is of archival quality. This means that it is designed to be stable and resistant to aging, ensuring that your artwork will stand the test of time. Whether you're a professional artist or a hobbyist, you can trust that your creations will maintain their vibrancy and quality for years to come.
The Pastel Pad comes with 24 sheets per pad, providing you with plenty of space to unleash your creativity. Each sheet has a weight of 160GSM, making it sturdy and durable enough to withstand various artistic techniques. Whether you prefer light and delicate strokes or bold and expressive ones, this paper can handle it all.
With 6 assorted earth colors, this Pastel Pad offers a range of options to enhance your artwork. From warm browns to rich greens, you'll have a versatile palette to work with. Whether you're creating landscapes, still life, or abstract pieces, these earth colors will add depth and dimension to your creations.
What sets this Pastel Pad apart is its dual-sided design. One side features a grained surface, perfect for creating texture and adding dimension to your artwork. The other side offers a smooth surface, ideal for blending and creating seamless transitions between colors. This versatility allows you to experiment and explore different techniques, ensuring that your artwork reflects your unique style and vision.
The Pastel Pad is ideal for artists who value both quality and convenience. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to take on the go, allowing you to create wherever inspiration strikes. Whether you're in the studio, outdoors, or attending a workshop, this pad is your go-to companion for all your artistic endeavors.
5. Canson Pastel Paper: Vibrant Colors For Artists, 24 Sheets

Introducing the internationally acclaimed and highly sought-after papers for pastel, drawing, and paper craft enthusiasts – the 50 percent cotton, gelatin-sized papers. These exceptional papers are revered for their superior quality and versatility in the art world.
Featuring a dual-surfaced design, these papers offer artists the freedom to explore different textures and create stunning artwork. One side boasts a heavy texture, perfect for adding depth and dimension to your creations. On the other side, you'll find a lighter texture, allowing for precise and delicate detailing.
One of the standout features of these papers is their light-fastness. Each sheet is colored at the pulp level, ensuring that the vibrant hues you apply to your artwork remain true and fade-resistant over time. No need to worry about your masterpieces losing their brilliance!
This pack includes 24 sheets of acid-free paper, measuring 9 x 12 inches each. With a weight of 98 pounds (160 grams), these papers provide a sturdy and durable surface to work on. Whether you're a professional artist or a passionate hobbyist, these papers are designed to meet your creative needs.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these papers are of the highest quality. The 50 percent cotton composition not only lends a luxurious feel to the paper but also enhances its durability. The gelatin sizing ensures optimal absorbency and prevents unwanted bleeding or feathering of colors.
Artists of all levels will appreciate the versatility of these papers. Perfect for a wide range of mediums, including pastels, charcoal, graphite, colored pencils, and more, they offer endless possibilities for artistic expression.
To top it off, these papers are acid-free, guaranteeing long-lasting preservation of your artwork. You can confidently display or frame your finished pieces knowing that they will be protected from yellowing or deterioration.
6. Artistic Bliss: Acid-Free A5 Pastel Paper, 30 Sheets

Introducing the high-quality Oil Pastel Paper Pad, perfect for artists who want to achieve clean application and correction in their oil pastel paintings. This acid-free paper is designed to provide a smooth surface, allowing for better picture appearance and enhancing the overall quality of your artwork.
With its fine texture, this paper is ideal for oil pastel artworks. It offers the perfect balance between smoothness and strength, ensuring that the paper can hold and build color effectively. The result is vibrant and rich colors that truly stand out on the page, making it easy for you to layer and blend different oil pastel shades.
Each pad contains 30 sheets, providing you with ample space to unleash your creativity. The paper has a weight of 240gsm, which adds to its durability and resilience. Sized at 5.8*8.3 inches (A5 size), this pad is compact and convenient, making it easy to access, store, and carry with you wherever you go. Whether you're painting in a studio or on-the-go, this paper pad is designed to meet your artistic needs.
Invest in the Oil Pastel Paper Pad and elevate your oil pastel paintings to new heights. With its smooth surface, fine texture, and vibrant color representation, this paper will surely bring your artwork to life. So grab your pastels, unleash your creativity, and let this high-quality paper be your canvas.
7. Hahnemuhle Pastel 10 Color Velour Pad 11.7×15.6 Inches 260gsm 10 Sheets

Introducing the Soft Velour Coated Pastel Paper Set, a must-have for all pastel enthusiasts! This set includes 10 sheets of high-quality 260gsm pastel paper, each measuring approximately 11.7×15.6 inches.
Crafted with care, this velour coated paper is designed to allow pastels to adhere naturally, ensuring a smooth and seamless application. Its soft texture adds a touch of luxury to your artwork, creating a visually stunning result.
What sets this set apart is the range of vibrant colors it offers. With 10 different shades to choose from, including white, medium grey, yellow, green, orange, dark grey, sand, ochre, light grey, and black, you'll have endless possibilities to explore and unleash your creativity. These colors are carefully selected to complement both soft and oil pastels, making it a versatile choice for artists of all levels.
The 260gsm weight of the paper ensures durability and sturdiness, allowing you to work with confidence and without worrying about your artwork getting damaged. The size of each sheet provides ample space for you to create your masterpiece, whether it's a small sketch or a large-scale drawing.
Not only is this set perfect for professional artists, but it's also ideal for beginners who are just starting their pastel journey. The soft velour coating makes it easier for pastels to adhere to the paper, making it a breeze to achieve the desired effects.
Best Paper For Soft Pastels FAQs
Are there any papers that are specifically designed for layering soft pastels?
Yes, there are papers specifically designed for layering soft pastels. These papers have a unique surface texture and composition that allows for multiple layers of pastel to be applied without smudging or muddying the colors. One popular type of paper for layering soft pastels is sanded pastel paper. Sanded pastel papers have a gritty surface that grips the pastel pigment, allowing for better adhesion and layering. Another option is pastel card, which has a slightly toothed or textured surface that holds the pastel particles and allows for layering without excessive smudging. Additionally, some artists also use pastel boards, which are rigid surfaces with a specifically formulated coating that is ideal for layering pastels. When choosing a paper for layering soft pastels, it is important to consider the texture, weight, and compatibility with your preferred pastel medium. Experimenting with different papers will help you find the one that best suits your style and techniques.
Are there any papers that prevent or minimize pastel dust or smudging?
Yes, there are papers specifically designed to prevent or minimize pastel dust or smudging. These papers are often referred to as pastel or charcoal papers. They have a textured surface that helps to hold the pastel particles in place, reducing the amount of dust that is created. The texture also allows for better adhesion of the pastel, preventing it from smudging or smearing easily.
When choosing a pastel paper, consider the weight and thickness of the paper. Heavier papers tend to be more durable and can handle multiple layers of pastel without smudging. Additionally, some pastel papers have a sanded or abrasive surface, which further helps to grip the pastel particles. These papers are often preferred by professional pastel artists for their ability to hold more layers and create richer colors.
In addition to using the right paper, you can also minimize pastel dust and smudging by using a fixative spray. This spray is applied to the finished artwork and helps to seal the pastel particles in place, preventing them from smudging or rubbing off. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer when using fixatives, as they can alter the appearance of the artwork if not used properly.
Are there any specific features to consider when choosing paper for soft pastels?
When choosing paper for soft pastels, there are several features to consider that can greatly impact your artwork. Firstly, the tooth or texture of the paper is crucial. Soft pastels require a textured surface to adhere to, so look for papers specifically designed for pastel work. Options like sanded pastel paper or pastel boards provide excellent tooth, allowing the pastels to grip the surface and create rich, layered effects.
Secondly, the weight and thickness of the paper should be taken into account. Heavier papers, such as those with a weight of 140lb or higher, are more durable and less likely to buckle or tear when working with pastels. This is especially important if you plan on using multiple layers or heavy applications of pastel.
Additionally, consider the color of the paper. White or light-toned papers tend to work well with most pastel colors, allowing them to appear vibrant and true to their original hues. However, experimenting with different colored papers can also yield interesting and unique effects. Ultimately, choosing a paper that complements your artistic vision and style is key.
In summary, when selecting paper for soft pastels, prioritize texture, weight, and color to ensure optimal results in your artwork.
Are there specific brands that offer the best paper for soft pastels?
Yes, there are specific brands that are known for offering the best paper for soft pastels. One of the leading brands in this category is Sennelier. They have a range of papers specifically designed for soft pastel work, such as their La Carte Pastel Card. This paper has a fine tooth surface that holds the pastel particles effectively, allowing for easy blending and layering of colors.
Another popular brand for soft pastel paper is UART. UART produces a range of sanded pastel papers that provide excellent tooth for pastel application. They offer a variety of grades, from fine to coarse, allowing artists to choose the level of tooth that best suits their needs.
Other notable brands include Canson, Fabriano, and Clairefontaine. These brands offer a selection of pastel papers that are suitable for soft pastels, with different textures and weights available to cater to various artistic preferences.
Ultimately, the choice of paper brand will depend on personal preference and the desired effect an artist wishes to achieve. It is always recommended to experiment with different brands and types of paper to find the one that works best for individual techniques and artistic style.
Can you recommend any affordable options for paper that works well with soft pastels?
Certainly! When it comes to finding affordable options for paper that works well with soft pastels, there are a few options to consider. One popular choice is pastel paper pads or sketchbooks that are specifically designed for soft pastels. These pads often come in various sizes and offer a good surface texture that allows the pastels to adhere well. Another option is to look for colored pastel papers, which can add an interesting background to your artwork and also provide a good surface for soft pastels.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can also try using heavyweight drawing paper or mixed media paper. These papers are generally thicker and have a slightly rough texture, which can work well with soft pastels. It's important to choose a paper with enough tooth to hold the pastel pigment, but not too rough that it causes excessive blending or loss of detail.
Ultimately, the best paper for soft pastels will depend on your personal preference and the specific techniques you use. I recommend experimenting with different types of paper to find the one that suits your style and budget the best.
Does the texture of the paper affect the outcome of soft pastel artwork?
Yes, the texture of the paper can indeed affect the outcome of soft pastel artwork. The texture of the paper plays a crucial role in how the pastels adhere to the surface and how the colors blend and interact.
A rough or textured paper provides more tooth or grip for the pastels, allowing them to adhere better and build up layers of color. This texture also helps in creating more expressive and dynamic marks, as the pastels can catch on the rough surface and create interesting textures and effects.
On the other hand, smooth or fine-grained papers are ideal for achieving a more precise and detailed look in soft pastel artwork. They allow for smoother blending and the ability to achieve fine lines and intricate details.
Ultimately, the choice of paper texture depends on the desired effect and style of the artwork. It is recommended to experiment with different textures to understand their impact on the final outcome and choose the one that best suits your artistic vision.
Does the weight or thickness of the paper matter for soft pastels?
Yes, the weight or thickness of the paper does matter for soft pastels. Soft pastels are a delicate medium that require a certain level of tooth or texture on the paper to hold the pigment. The weight of the paper refers to its thickness, and heavier papers tend to have more tooth, making them ideal for working with soft pastels. Thicker papers also provide more support for layering and blending colors without the risk of tearing or warping.
A recommended weight for soft pastels is around 140lb (300gsm) or higher. This ensures that the paper can withstand the application and blending of the pastels without becoming too saturated or warped. Additionally, a heavier weight paper helps to prevent the pastels from smudging or transferring onto the opposite side of the paper.
Ultimately, using a paper specifically designed for soft pastels will yield the best results. These papers are often labeled as "pastel paper" or "pastel card" and are specifically formulated to hold the pastel pigment effectively.
What is the best paper for soft pastels?
When it comes to soft pastels, selecting the right paper is crucial for achieving the desired results. The best paper for soft pastels is one that has a textured surface to hold the pastel particles effectively and allow for easy blending and layering. There are a few options to consider:
1. Pastel Paper: Specifically designed for pastel work, this paper has a grainy surface that grips the pastels well. It comes in various weights and colors, allowing artists to choose based on their preferences.
2. Sanded Paper: Highly favored by many pastel artists, sanded paper has a gritty surface that holds a large amount of pastel. It provides excellent tooth for layering and blending, resulting in vibrant and richly textured artwork.
3. Watercolor Paper: Some artists also opt for heavy-weight watercolor paper with a rough texture. While it may not have the same level of tooth as pastel or sanded paper, it can still provide a satisfactory surface for soft pastel work.
Ultimately, the best paper for soft pastels depends on individual preference and the desired effect. It is recommended to experiment with different types of paper to find the one that suits your style and techniques.
What type of paper is best for achieving vibrant colors with soft pastels?
When it comes to achieving vibrant colors with soft pastels, the type of paper you choose plays a crucial role. The best paper for this purpose is one that has a textured surface to hold the pastel particles and allow for layering and blending. A popular choice is pastel paper, specifically designed for soft pastels. Pastel paper has a "tooth" or texture that grips the pastel particles, enabling you to create rich and vibrant colors.
Another option is sanded paper, which has an even coarser texture that enhances color vibrancy and allows for more layering. Sanded paper provides excellent tooth and grip for the pastels, resulting in intense and vibrant colors.
Some artists also prefer using watercolor paper or heavy drawing paper with a pronounced texture as an alternative. These papers can also hold pastels well and produce vibrant colors, although the results may differ slightly from traditional pastel papers.
Ultimately, the best paper for achieving vibrant colors with soft pastels will depend on your personal preference and the specific effect you are aiming for. It is always a good idea to experiment with different types of paper to find the one that suits your style and desired outcome the best.
Which paper type works best for blending soft pastels?
When it comes to blending soft pastels, the best paper type to use is one that has a slightly textured surface. This allows the pastels to adhere to the paper while still providing enough tooth for blending. One popular choice is pastel paper, which is specifically designed for use with pastels. Pastel paper has a textured surface that helps to hold the pastel particles in place and allows for easy blending. Another option is a heavy-weight drawing paper with a slight tooth, such as a fine-toothed drawing paper or a pastel mat. These papers also provide enough texture for the pastels to grip onto while still allowing for blending. Ultimately, the choice of paper type depends on personal preference and the desired effect. It's always a good idea to experiment with different papers to find the one that works best for your style and technique when blending soft pastels.