Cheap Oil Pastels
Are you an artist on a tight budget but still want to create quality artwork? Look no further than cheap oil pastels!

These affordable art supplies are perfect for artists of all skill levels who want to experiment with oil pastels without breaking the bank.
While quality art supplies can be expensive, cheap oil pastels are a great option for those who want to explore different mediums without compromising quality.
This guide introduces you to the best cheap oil pastels and provides tips and techniques for using them effectively.
Key Takeaways:
Table of contents
Why Choose Oil Pastels for Your Artistic Needs
If you’re looking for a versatile and vibrant drawing medium, oil pastels are an excellent choice. Here’s why:
Unlike other drawing supplies like crayons or soft pastels, oil pastels hold their shape well and do not crumble or break easily.
They are also less messy, making them a great option for artists who prefer a cleaner workspace.
Whether a beginner or an experienced artist, oil pastels are a great medium to explore and experiment with.
Their versatility and vibrant colors make them ideal for creating expressive and unique artwork.
Top Brands for Cheap Oil Pastels
When looking for cheap oil pastels, it’s important to consider brands that offer quality pigments without breaking the bank. Here are some of the top brands to consider:
Brand | Features | Price Range |
---|---|---|
Sennelier | Professional-grade pigments | $23.56 – $291 |
Pentel | Smooth texture; ideal for blending and layering | $7.99 – $35.99 |
Cray-Pas | Water-soluble option available; high-quality pigments | $5.90 – $19.99 |
Mungyo | Soft and creamy texture; vibrant colors | $9.50 – $48.00 |
Artecho Oil Pastels | Bright colors; easy to blend | $9.99 – $15.99 |
1. Sennelier Picasso Oil Pastel Set

2. Pentel Oil Pastels

3. Cray-Pas Oil Pastels

4. Mungyo Oil Pastels

5. Artecho Oil Pastels

Each of these brands offers affordable options for artists on a budget, with prices starting at just a few dollars per set.
Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, these brands offer a range of colors and textures to suit your needs.
Best Oil Pastel Sets for Beginners
Starting out with a new medium can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of options for affordable oil pastel sets that are perfect for beginners.
One great choice is the Mungyo Gallery Soft Oil Pastels Set of 48. This set offers a wide range of colors and a soft texture, making blending and layering a breeze.
The pastels are also non-toxic and fade-resistant, making them a safe and lasting choice for your artwork.
Another great budget-friendly option is the Crayola Oil Pastels set. These pastels are easy to use and come in 28 vibrant colors. They’re also durable and long-lasting, ensuring you can create stunning artwork with them.
The Pentel Oil Pastels set is a great choice if you want a larger one. It comes in 50 colors and offers excellent color saturation and blendability.
These pastels are also acid-free and fade-resistant, ensuring your artwork will stand the test of time.
Regardless of which set you choose, these oil pastels will inspire your creativity and help you produce beautiful works!
Affordable Oil Pastels for Artists
While some oil pastel sets can be quite expensive, there are still options for artists on a budget. These affordable oil pastels offer professional-grade pigments without breaking the bank.
Product | Price | Features |
---|---|---|
Pentel Oil Pastels | $8.99 for a set of 12 | Smooth, creamy texture; blend easily; vivid colors |
Gallery Soft Oil Pastels Set of 72 | $36.95 | Wide range of colors; blendable texture; high color concentration |
Pentel Oil Pastels are a popular option for both students and professionals. They have a smooth and creamy texture, making them easy to blend.
They come in 12 vivid colors and are an excellent choice for artists on a budget.
The Gallery Soft Oil Pastels Set of 72 provides a wide range of colors to work with. These oil pastels are soft and blendable, allowing for easy layering and texture creation.
They’re also made with high color concentration, ensuring bright and vivid pigments in your artwork.
As with any art supply, it’s important to consider how affordable oil pastels fit into your artistic needs.
Experiment with different brands and colors to find the best options for your work.
Exploring Different Oil Pastel Techniques
Oil pastels are a versatile medium that allow you to create a range of textures and effects in your art.
Applying different techniques can achieve stunning results and elevate your creativity. Here are some tips and tricks for using oil pastels:
Blending Techniques
One of the unique characteristics of oil pastels is their ability to blend smoothly. You can blend two or more colors seamlessly by overlapping them.
To blend more effectively, use your fingers or a blending tool. Start with light strokes and add more color as you go along.
This technique creates a smooth gradient or a subtle transition in your artwork.
Layering Techniques
Another technique you can use with oil pastels is layering. This involves building up layers of color to create a rich, textured effect.
To layer, start with lighter colors and gradually add more intensity. You can also use contrasting colors to create a bold, vibrant artwork.
Remember to blend the layers carefully as you go along, to avoid any harsh lines or streaks.
Using Pastel Paper
A specific type of paper can help you achieve better results with oil pastels.
Pastel paper is ideal for this medium, as it has a slightly textured surface that enhances the pigments and allows you to blend and layer more effectively.
You can also experiment with different colors of pastel paper to create different moods in your artwork.
Using Fixatives
A fixative is a spray that you apply to your finished artwork to protect it from smudging or fading. It also enhances the color and texture of your work.
Use a fixative specifically designed for oil pastels, as this will provide the best results. Spray the fixative lightly over your artwork from 10-12 inches.
Wait for it to dry before framing or displaying your artwork.
Water-Soluble Oil Pastels: A Versatile Option

Consider water-soluble options if you want a unique spin on traditional oil pastels.
These pastels can be blended and diluted with water to create a watercolor-like effect, or applied dry for a more traditional look.
One notable brand for water-soluble oil pastels is Sakura Cray-Pas Specialist Oil Pastels. These pastels offer a range of vibrant colors and smooth application.
Whether a beginner or an experienced artist, water-soluble oil pastels can offer a versatile option to enhance your artwork.
Final Thoughts on Cheap Oil Pastels
Congratulations! You are now equipped with the knowledge and tools to find the best cheap oil pastels for your artistic needs.
Remember, affordability doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality. With top brands like Sennelier, Pentel, and Mungyo, you can create vibrant, professional-grade artwork without breaking the bank.
Don’t forget to explore techniques like blending and layering to add depth and texture to your pieces.
And for those who want to experiment with water-soluble options, Sakura Cray-Pas Specialist Oil Pastels offer a versatile and unique approach to your creative journey.
No matter your skill level, it’s important to have access to affordable art supplies that allow you to express yourself freely.
So try different brands, experiment with techniques, and let your creativity run wild with the best cheap oil pastels!
F.A.Q.s on Cheap Oil Pastels
Where can I buy cheap oil pastels?
You can find cheap oil pastels at art supply stores, online retailers, and discount stores. Check out our guide to discover the top brands that offer affordable options.
Are cheap oil pastels low quality?
Not necessarily! While some cheaper options may have lower pigmentation or durability, some brands offer high-quality oil pastels at affordable prices. Researching and reading reviews is important to find the best options within your budget.
Can I use oil pastels on different surfaces?
Oil pastels can be used on various surfaces, including paper, canvas, wood, and glass. However, it’s important to consider the surface and prepare it accordingly to ensure the best results.
How do I blend oil pastels?
Oil pastels can be blended using fingers, stumps, or paintbrushes. Experiment with different techniques to achieve the desired blending effect in your artwork.
Do I need fixatives for oil pastel artworks?
Fixatives are unnecessary for all oil pastel artworks, but they can help preserve and protect your piece. If you want to ensure the longevity of your artwork, consider using a fixative specifically designed for oil pastels.
Are water-soluble oil pastels different from regular oil pastels?
Unlike regular oil pastels, water-soluble ones can be blended and diluted with water. They offer unique opportunities for creating texture and effects in your artwork.
Can I use oil pastels for detailed drawings?
Absolutely! Oil pastels can be used for loose, expressive works and highly detailed drawings. Experiment with different techniques and tools to achieve the desired level of detail.
Can I mix oil pastels with other mediums?
Oil pastels can be mixed with other mediums, such as acrylics and oil paints, but it’s important to consider the compatibility of the materials. Experimentation and testing are key to discovering new techniques and effects.
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