Artists and hobbyists browsing art supplies often encounter a vibrant display at their local store, and the oil pastel section at Michaels is frequently a primary destination. These sticks of color offer an immediate and tactile way to create, blending the ease of crayons with the richness of paint. Finding the right set involves understanding the specific characteristics that differentiate student-grade products from professional lines available at the retailer.
Understanding Oil Pastel Formulations
Unlike wax-based crayons, oil pastels utilize a pigment mixed with a non-drying oil and wax binder. This composition results in a softer, creamier texture that glides smoothly across the surface. At Michaels, the quality of the pigments and the balance of this binder determine whether the pastel will lay down intense color or break apart easily. Cheaper formulations often contain more wax, which can lead to a brittle stick and less vibrant output.
Exploring the Color Palette
Color selection is a major factor when shopping for oil pastels, especially for beginners building their first set. Michaels typically stocks a wide range, from basic primary and secondary sets to expansive collections featuring metallic and neon shades. A robust palette allows for greater color mixing and the creation of nuanced gradients, which is essential for moving beyond simple drawings to more sophisticated artwork.
Recommended Brands at Michaels
Crayola: Ideal for students and children, offering affordability and durability.
Sargent: A reliable mid-range option known for consistent texture and color payoff.
Faber-Castell: A premium choice favored by professionals for its rich pigmentation and softness.
The Role of Paper and Surface Texture
The interaction between the pastel and the surface dramatically affects the final result. Smooth paper allows for detailed work and sharp lines, while textured paper grabs the pigment, creating a grainy, layered effect. When selecting materials at the store, artists should consider whether they intend to work on canvas, heavyweight drawing paper, or mixed media surfaces, as adhesion and coverage vary significantly.
Blending and Layering Techniques
One of the distinct advantages of oil pastels is the lack of need for harsh solvents. Artists can blend colors directly on the page using their fingers, stumps, or specialized tools to create soft transitions. Layering is another powerful technique; applying a light coat first, followed by a darker layer, builds depth and richness that is difficult to achieve with other mediums found at Michaels.
Preservation and Fixatives
Because the oils in these pastels can remain slightly tacky, finished pieces are prone to smudging and dust accumulation. Protecting the artwork is a critical final step. Fixative sprays are available in the same aisle as the pastels, providing a barrier that locks the pigment in place. Proper framing under glass is also recommended to preserve the vibrancy of the colors over time.
