Water soluble oil pastels offer a versatile medium that combines the richness of traditional oil pastels with the ability to blend and manipulate them using water. Here's a breakdown of how to effectively use them:
Techniques for Using Water Soluble Oil Pastels
Water soluble oil pastels can be used in a variety of ways, both with and without water:
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Dry Application: Apply them directly to paper like regular oil pastels. You can build up layers, blend colors with your fingers or a blending stump, and create textured effects.
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Adding Water: This is where the "water soluble" aspect comes into play. There are a few ways to use water:
- Directly on the Pastel: Dip the pastel in water before applying it to the paper. This creates a very fluid, watercolor-like effect from the start.
- On the Paper Before Applying Pastel: Wet the paper first with a brush or sponge. Then, apply the dry pastel. The pigment will immediately spread and blend in the wet areas.
- Applying Pastel and Then Adding Water: This is the most common method. Apply the dry pastel to the paper, and then use a wet brush (or sponge, cotton swab, etc.) to activate the pastel. The water will dissolve the pigment, allowing you to blend colors, create washes, and add subtle shading.
Tips for Working with Water Soluble Oil Pastels
- Paper Choice: Use heavy paper, such as watercolor paper or mixed media paper, to prevent buckling when using water. Lighter weight paper will likely warp.
- Blending: Use a wet brush to blend colors smoothly. The amount of water will determine the intensity of the color and the level of blending.
- Layering: Water soluble oil pastels can be layered both dry and wet. Allow layers to dry completely before adding more layers, especially when working with water.
- Experimentation: Test different techniques on scrap paper to understand how the pastels react with water. Some colors may wash out more easily than others.
- Mixed Media: Water soluble oil pastels are excellent for mixed media art. Combine them with other mediums, such as watercolor paints, acrylics, colored pencils, graphite, and ink. Posca paint pens can work well in conjunction with them.
- Fixing: Once your artwork is dry, consider using a fixative spray to protect it from smudging and fading. A fixative specifically designed for pastels is ideal.
- Clean Up: Clean brushes immediately after use with soap and water to prevent the pastel from hardening in the bristles.
Potential Issues and Solutions
- Paper Buckling: Use heavier paper, tape the paper to a board before applying water, or stretch the paper beforehand.
- Muddy Colors: Avoid over-blending colors with too much water. Work in layers and allow each layer to dry before adding more.
- Uneven Washes: Use a wide brush or sponge to apply water evenly.
- Lifting Color: If you apply too much water, you may lift the pastel pigment off the paper. Use a lighter touch and avoid scrubbing.
