Beginning Pastel

Proof 1

Job:11907 Title: PORT5 - Beginning Pastel 9781633221949 (Walter Foster)

001-128 PORT5.Interior.r4_11907.indd 28 9/12/16 4:05 PM

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PAINTING WITH PASTEL

Once you understand how to build up the fine layers of color, you are on your way toward producing

great pastel paintings. Here is a simple formula for painting with pastel:

1. Choosing the right colors


2. Sketching the subject


3. Underpainting


4. Adding depth and color


5. Adding detail

1. CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLORS

This can be the biggest challenge for anyone new to the art of pastel. Try beginning with a preselected

landscape box produced by pastel manufacturers, or develop your own unique range of colors.

Over the next few pages, follow along as I use my painting called “Autumn Reflections” to show you

my process for successful pastel painting. These are the sixteen colors used in this painting: deep red,

rust red, dark brown, mid-brown, golden yellow, mid-yellow, pale yellow, cream, dark blue-green,

mid-green, pale green, light blue, deep purple, dark gray, mid-gray, and white.

tip

You can Test the colors by stroking each pastel onto

a small strip of sanded card. This helps you see the

actual color before you begin painting.

Proof 1

Job:11907 Title: PORT5 - Beginning Pastel 9781633221949 (Walter Foster)

001-128 PORT5.Interior.r4_11907.indd 28 9/12/16 3:54 PM