Selecting the right paper for pastel drawing can dramatically impact your artwork. The texture, weight, and color of the paper can enhance or hinder your creative process. In this guide, we’ll explore three diverse examples that will help you understand how to make the best choice for your pastel drawings.
Using textured pastel paper is ideal when you want to create vibrant and intense colors in your drawings. The texture offers more grip for the pastel, allowing for richer application and blending.
When you want to create a landscape with bright skies and colorful fields, textured paper can help your colors pop.
The rough surface of this paper allows for multiple layers of pastel, giving your artwork depth and dimension.
For instance, try using a sanded pastel paper. This type of paper is designed specifically for pastels and holds a lot of pigment, making it perfect for achieving bold results.
Imagine you’re working on a vibrant sunset landscape. Start by applying a base layer of yellow on the paper. Next, layer orange and red pastels, using your fingers or a blending tool to soften the colors as they transition into one another. With textured paper, you’ll notice how beautifully the colors blend and how easily you can build up layers without losing vibrancy.
If your goal is to create intricate details or fine lines, a smooth Bristol board is an excellent choice. This type of paper has a flat, even surface that allows for precise application of pastels, making it perfect for detailed work.
For example, if you’re drawing a portrait or a still life, the smooth surface will enable you to render delicate features and subtle color transitions.
Let’s say you’re drawing a detailed floral arrangement. Start by sketching the outlines of the petals and leaves lightly with a pastel pencil. Then, using soft pastels, gently layer colors to create depth in the petals. Because the Bristol board is smooth, you can easily create fine details like highlights and shadows without the texture interfering with your lines.
Toned paper can provide a unique backdrop for your pastel drawings, allowing you to incorporate the paper’s color into your artwork. This can be especially effective when creating portraits or atmospheric landscapes.
Using a mid-tone paper can help balance the light and dark values in your drawing, adding richness and warmth.
Imagine you want to create a moody portrait. Start with a warm-toned paper, like a light brown or gray. Using a white pastel, sketch out the highlights of the face. Next, apply darker shades to define the shadows and contours. The mid-tone paper will allow you to use the paper color as a base, creating a more cohesive look in your artwork.
By considering these examples of choosing the right paper for pastel drawing, you’ll be better equipped to select the perfect surface for your creative projects. Happy drawing!