Pastel Paper Varieties

Pastel Painting Overview

Pastel painting is a technique that has been used by artists for centuries. The medium is made up of pure pigment and a binder, which is usually gum arabic or methyl cellulose. One of the most important aspects of pastel painting is the type of paper that is used. In this essay, we will explore the different types of paper that are commonly used for pastel painting, and the differences between them.

Pastel paper comes in many different varieties, each with its own unique qualities and characteristics. These papers can be categorized into three main types: sanded paper, textured paper, and smooth paper.

Sanded Paper

Another popular brand of sanded paper is UArt, which is made by UART. UArt is available in a range of grits, from 240 to 800, allowing artists to choose the level of roughness that best suits their needs. UArt paper is also pH-neutral and acid-free, which means that it will not yellow or degrade over time.

Textured Paper

Textured paper is a type of paper that has a subtle texture or tooth to its surface. This texture allows the pastel to adhere to the paper more easily, but it is not as rough as sanded paper. Textured paper is often used by artists who want to create a more impressionistic or abstract look in their work.

One popular brand of textured paper is Canson Mi-Teintes, which is made by Canson. Mi-Teintes is a versatile paper that comes in a range of colors and is available in a variety of weights. It has a vellum texture on one side and a smooth texture on the other, which makes it a great choice for artists who want to experiment with different textures and effects.

Smooth Paper

Smooth paper is a type of paper that has a very smooth, almost slick surface. This surface allows the pastel to glide over the paper more easily, which means that it is less likely to smudge or blend together. Smooth paper is often used by artists who want to create a more abstract or expressive look in their work.

One popular brand of smooth paper is Stonehenge, which is made by Legion Paper. Stonehenge is a high-quality paper that is available in a range of colors and weights. It has a smooth surface that is perfect for creating clean, sharp lines and bright colors.

Another popular brand of smooth paper is Clairefontaine Pastel Card, which is made by Clairefontaine. Pastel Card is a very smooth, hard paper that is perfect for creating bold, graphic designs. It has a high tooth that allows for excellent pastel adhesion, but it is also pH-neutral and acid-free.