Guide to Oil Pastels

I like to describe oil pastels as crayons without the point. They are creamy, pliable, and not very precise. I use a brand called Caran d'Ache, which is a professional brand and my personal favorite.

There’s something beautiful about working with a medium that’s always alive.

Another unique fact about oil pastels is that they never dry. This is not anything to be concerned about, however it does change how you may choose to frame your piece.

Oil pastels require a frame with glass over the front and either a spacer or a mat to separate the pastel from the glass. This gives the drawing the space it needs to "breathe." What I mean by this is that the space allows the drawing to expand and shrink should the temperature change, it helps protect the drawing from humidity, and provides a gutter space for any loose particles to fall into should they break loose. If you use a local frame shop they will be able to help you choose either a mat or spacers to achieve the look you are going for.

All my original drawings are sold in a frame that uses both spacers and a mat. I have chosen to mount my drawings on a mat to showcase the beautiful deckled edge of the handmade paper and allow the spacer to provide the separation needed between the art and the glass.