How do you blend oil sticks?

Oil sticks can be blended in several ways, mirroring techniques used with traditional oil paints.

Methods for Blending Oil Sticks

Here are the primary techniques for effectively blending oil sticks:

Working the Stick Over the Colors: This involves applying one color directly over another and using the oil stick itself to move and mix the colors on the surface. This technique is effective for creating smooth transitions and subtle gradations.
Example: Apply a yellow oil stick, then go over it with a light orange oil stick, using the stick to blend them.

Fingers: Use gloved fingers to blend the oil paint on the canvas. This allows for a more tactile and controlled approach to blending, enabling soft and seamless transitions between colors.
Stumps and Silicone Tools: Blending tools such as paper stumps or silicone shapers can be used to manipulate the oil stick paint on your surface. These tools are excellent for achieving even and consistent blending.
Brushes: Utilize brushes (both soft and stiff bristles can be useful) to blend oil stick paint. They help to move the colors, soften edges, and create a variety of textural effects.
Example: After applying two colors with the oil stick, use a dry brush to blend the edges, or a rubber-tipped tool to create smooth and even transitions.

Here's a table summarizing the blending methods:

Method	Tools	Technique	Application
Direct Blending	Oil Stick	Applying one color over the other and using the stick to blend.	Creates smooth transitions and subtle gradations.
Finger Blending	Gloved fingers	Smudging and blending paint with fingertips.	Allows for controlled, soft and seamless transitions.
Tool Blending	Stumps, silicone tools, brushes	Using various blending tools to move and mix the paint.	Achieve even and consistent blending.

Working Wet-on-Wet: Blending is easiest when the oil paint from the oil stick is still wet. This allows colors to mix and merge easily.
Start with Light Layers: Begin with thin layers of oil stick paint and gradually build up to the desired intensity. This makes it easier to control the blending process.