Using Soft Pastels on Watercolor Paper: Tips and Techniques

Soft pastels can be a versatile and expressive medium, and while typically used on pastel-specific papers, many artists find innovative ways to incorporate them on watercolor paper. Understanding the differences and limitations between these two types of paper can help you achieve the best results.

Can You Use Soft Pastels on Watercolor Paper?

Yes, it is possible to use soft pastels on watercolor paper, but there are some downsides to consider. Watercolor paper is not designed to hold pastels, as it has a toothy surface meant to absorb water and allow paint to spread evenly. As a result, pastels will not adhere as well and may not cover the paper with a smooth appearance.

Watercolor paper, particularly cold-press and rough surfaces, can add interesting textures when used with pastels. The tooth of the paper can create a unique, uneven surface that complements the pigments. However, achieving a smooth flat color may be challenging due to the grooves and texture of the paper.

Why Choose Pastel-Specific Papers?

Pastel-specific papers are made with a slightly rough surface to hold pigments effectively. Some papers have a sandy texture for even more tooth. While these papers are not designed to absorb water, they do not buckle in the same way as watercolor paper, making them more tolerant of dry media like pastels.

Watercolor paper, which comes in various weights and surfaces, works well with chalk pastels and charcoal due to its toothy nature. It has been sized with starch or gelatin, which helps water spread evenly on the surface before being absorbed. This surface properties make it difficult for pastels to sink into the paper too quickly, making it harder to achieve an even wash.

Experimental Approaches

If you still want to experiment with soft pastels on watercolor paper, there are a few techniques you can try:

Layering: Apply pastel in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next. This can help to achieve a smoother color and prevent the pastel from soaking into the paper. Securing the Pastel: Apply a fixative to the pastel layer to help it adhere better to the watercolor paper. Fixative can work to lock the color in place while still allowing some texture to remain. Underpainting: Use a thin layer of watercolor paint as an underpainting, which can provide a smoother base for the pastel to sit on.

Conclusion

While it is possible to use soft pastels on watercolor paper, it is generally recommended to use pastel-specific papers for the best results. If you want to add texture and interest to your pastel paintings, experimenting with watercolor paper can be a fun and creative approach. Understanding the limitations of each type of paper will help you to achieve the desired effects and enjoy your artistic endeavors more.

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Resource for Further Reading

For more detailed information and techniques, refer to books like 'Pastel Techniques: A Complete Guide' by Florence Caron and 'Watercolor Techniques: A Complete Guide' by Edward Langley. These resources can provide you with a deeper understanding of how to work with different media on various papers.