Best Paper for Oil Pastels 2024: Top Picks for Vibrant and Long-Lasting Artwork

Oil pastels are a unique and versatile medium that can produce stunning and vibrant artworks. They are made of a mixture of pigment, wax, and oil, and can be applied to a variety of surfaces. However, choosing the right paper for oil pastels can be a daunting task. The paper's texture, weight, and absorbency can all affect the outcome of your artwork.

When it comes to oil pastels, the most important factor to consider is the paper's tooth, which refers to its surface texture. A paper with a rough texture will hold more pastel and create a more textured appearance, while a smooth paper will produce a cleaner and more polished look. The weight of the paper is also crucial, as oil pastels require a heavier weight paper to prevent warping or tearing.

There are various types of paper available for oil pastels, including watercolor paper, pastel paper, and mixed media paper. Watercolor paper has a rough texture that can hold a lot of pastel, but it may not be as durable as other options. Pastel paper is specifically designed for pastel work and has a toothy surface that can hold multiple layers of pastel. Mixed media paper is a versatile option that can work well with oil pastels, as it has a weight and texture that can handle multiple mediums.

When selecting the best paper for oil pastels, it's important to consider your personal preferences and the specific project you're working on. In the next section, we'll take a closer look at some of the top options on the market and what sets them apart.

Best Paper for Oil Pastels

If you're an oil pastel artist, you know that the paper you use can make a huge difference in the final outcome of your artwork. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, finding the right paper is crucial to achieving the desired results. In this article, we've rounded up the best paper for oil pastels to help you take your artwork to the next level. So, let's dive in and explore the top options available on Amazon.

Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad

If you're looking for a high-quality paper pad for oil pastels, the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is an excellent choice.

 

Pros

• Made in the USA
• Comes in a convenient 9"x12" size with 24 sheets per pad
• The glue binding allows for easy removal of pages

Cons

• The subtle colors may not be vibrant enough for some artists
• The paper may not be thick enough for heavy layering
• Some users have reported difficulty with blending on this paper

The Strathmore Paper Company has been a leading supplier of fine art papers for over a century, and the 400 Series Pastel Pad is no exception. This pad contains 24 sheets of subtly colored textured paper that is perfect for oil pastels, as well as soft and hard pastels. The glue binding allows pages to be easily removed and showcased, making it a convenient choice for artists of all levels.

One of the biggest advantages of this paper pad is that it is made in the USA, ensuring a high level of quality. Additionally, the 9"x12" size is convenient for most artists, and the glue binding allows for easy removal of pages. However, some users have reported that the subtle colors may not be vibrant enough for their tastes, and that the paper may not be thick enough for heavy layering.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is an excellent choice for artists looking for a high-quality paper pad for oil pastels. Whether you're a professional artist or just starting out, this paper pad is sure to meet your needs.

GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel Pad

If you're looking for a paper pad that's specifically designed for oil pastels, the GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel Pad is a great option.

Pros

• The paper is acid-free and pH balanced, making it a great choice for archival artwork.
• The dual-surfaced paper allows for a variety of textures, making it versatile for different styles of artwork.
• The smaller size of the paper pad makes it a great choice for travel or smaller projects.

Cons

• The paper may not be suitable for wet media, as it's designed for dry media like pastels and charcoal.
• The smaller size of the paper pad may not be ideal for larger projects.
• Some users may prefer a heavier weight paper for oil pastels.

This 50-sheet pad of 5.9 x 5.9 inch 123 lb/200g paper is designed for use with hard or soft pastel and oil pastel, as well as graphite pencil, colored pencil, charcoal, sketching stick, and other mixed media. The paper is acid-free and pH balanced, making it a great choice for archival artwork. It's also dual-surfaced, with one side featuring a heavier texture and the other featuring a lighter texture, allowing for a variety of textures in your artwork.

One of the advantages of this paper pad is its smaller size, which makes it a great choice for travel or smaller projects. However, the smaller size may not be ideal for larger projects. Additionally, while the paper is suitable for dry media, it may not be ideal for wet media. Some users may also prefer a heavier weight paper for oil pastels.

Overall, if you're looking for a paper pad specifically designed for oil pastels, the GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel Pad is a great choice. Its acid-free and pH balanced paper, dual surfaces, and smaller size make it a versatile option for a variety of artwork.

Zenacolor Oil Pastel Paper Pad Set

If you're looking for a professional-quality oil pastel paper pad set, the Zenacolor Oil Pastel Paper Pad Set is a great choice.

Pros

• The paper is specifically designed to highlight your hard, soft, and oil pastel masterpieces with its smooth textured finish.
• The 9x12-inch sketch book contains 16 sheets of thick paper (67 lb or 180 gsm paper weights) that has the perfect texture for drawing.
• This sketch pad offers 4 different neutral-toned paper colors (white, tan, grey) that will make your art pop and naturally enhance your masterpieces.

Cons

• The paper may be too toothy for oil pastels, and soft pastels don't lay on so well.
• The paper may curl with wet washes if not taped down.
• One of the pages in the pad may be defective.

This paper pad set is perfect for artists who want to enhance their art with natural-toned paper colors. The paper is thick and durable, making it suitable for a variety of media, including oil pastels, colored pencils, graphite, charcoal, and more.

In addition, the detachable sheets make expressing your creative side comfortable and convenient. If you're not satisfied with your purchase, you have 30 days to request a refund, and the manufacturer offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Overall, the Zenacolor Oil Pastel Paper Pad Set is a great choice for artists who want to create stunning art effects with their oil pastels.

GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel | 9x12 in (123 lb/200g) | 30 Sheets Heavyweight Drawing Paper

If you're looking for paper that can handle both hard and soft pastels and oil pastels, the GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel paper is a great option.

Pros

• The acid-free, neutral pH balance of the paper ensures that your artwork will last for a long time without yellowing or deteriorating.
• The dual-surfaced paper allows you to experiment with different textures and techniques, making it a versatile option for artists of all levels.
• The paper is made from 100% recyclable materials, making it a more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious artists.

Cons

• The heavyweight paper may not be suitable for all types of artwork, especially if you prefer a lighter weight paper.
• The paper may not be compatible with all types of mediums, so it's important to test it out before committing to a larger project.
• The price point may be higher than other options on the market, so it may not be the best choice if you're on a tight budget.

If you're looking for a high-quality paper that can handle a variety of mediums, the GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel paper is definitely worth considering. The acid-free, neutral pH balance of the paper ensures that your artwork will last for a long time without yellowing or deteriorating, while the dual-surfaced paper allows you to experiment with different textures and techniques.

However, it's important to note that the heavyweight paper may not be suitable for all types of artwork, especially if you prefer a lighter weight paper. Additionally, the paper may not be compatible with all types of mediums, so it's important to test it out before committing to a larger project. Finally, the price point may be higher than other options on the market, so it may not be the best choice if you're on a tight budget.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and versatile paper for your oil pastel artwork, the GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel paper is definitely worth considering.

Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad

If you are looking for a paper that can handle oil pastels, the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is a great option.

Pros

• The paper has a textured finish that works well with oil pastels, soft pastels, and even hard pastels.
• The subtle colors of the paper can add depth and interest to your artwork.
• Each sheet tears off easily with no rips, making it easy to work with.

Cons

• The color range of the paper is limited, with too many white and off-white sheets and not enough darker colors.
• Some users have found the paper to be too smooth and lacking in tooth for their liking.
• The paper is relatively thin at 80 lb, so it may not hold up well to heavy layering.

If you are looking for a paper that can provide a textured surface for your oil pastels, the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad is a solid choice. The paper tears off easily and the subtle colors can add depth to your artwork. However, the limited color range and relatively thin paper may be drawbacks for some users. Overall, this paper is a good option for those looking for a versatile paper that can work with a variety of pastels.

Sennelier Oil Pastel Pad

If you're looking for a high-quality paper for your oil pastels, the Sennelier Oil Pastel Pad is a great option. With its machine-made, bright white paper, acid-free composition, and heavyweight textured surface, this pad offers unsurpassed performance for oil pastel artists.

Pros

• The bright white paper allows for vivid and true-to-life colors, making your artwork stand out.
• The heavyweight textured surface is perfect for creating depth and dimension in your oil pastel pieces.
• The acid-free composition ensures that your artwork will not yellow or fade over time.

Cons

• The pad only contains 12 sheets, which may not be enough for larger or more ambitious projects.
• The price point may be higher than other oil pastel paper options on the market.
• Some users have reported receiving a white pad instead of the beige pad they ordered.

If you're looking to create oil pastel artwork that truly pops, the Sennelier Oil Pastel Pad is an excellent choice. Its bright white paper and heavyweight textured surface allow for unparalleled color vibrancy and depth, while its acid-free composition ensures that your artwork will stand the test of time. However, keep in mind that the pad only contains 12 sheets and may be pricier than other options.

Floit Papelsino Sketchbook

If you're looking for a sketchbook to use with oil pastels, colored pencils, or pencil drawing, the Floit Papelsino Sketchbook could be a great option.

Pros

• The surface is smooth, allowing for easy blending of colors.
• The paper is heavyweight, making it durable and resistant to tearing.
• Comes in a pack of two, providing great value for the price.

Cons

• Some users may prefer a larger size for their sketches.
• The off-white color of the paper may not be ideal for all types of artwork.
• The binding may not be as sturdy as some users would like.

This sketchbook is perfect for artists who want a smooth surface for blending colors. The heavyweight paper is also great for those who want a durable sketchbook that can withstand frequent use.

The pack of two provides excellent value for the price, making it a great option for artists who want to save money. However, some users may prefer a larger size for their sketches, and the off-white color of the paper may not be ideal for all types of artwork.

Overall, the Floit Papelsino Sketchbook is a great option for those looking for a sketchbook to use with oil pastels, colored pencils, or pencil drawing.

Ctosree 100 Sheets Oil Pastel Paper

If you're looking for a versatile and reliable oil pastel paper, the Ctosree 100 Sheets Oil Pastel Paper might be a practical choice for you.

Pros

• The package includes 100 coloring papers that come in 4 different neutral colors, providing you with enough options to meet your use needs and replacements.
• The paper is about 180G/98lb with a size of 5 x 7 inches, which is convenient and simple to use. You could also change the size of the paper depending on your use needs.
• The paint paper is made of quality materials, smooth for you to draw, and does not easily break, which can serve you for a long time.

Cons

• Some users might find the paper to be too thin for their liking.
• The color quality may not be as vibrant as some other oil pastel paper brands.
• The paper may not work well with wet media.

This oil pastel paper is suitable for use with graphite pencils, charcoal, and sketch sticks, providing you with a nice using experience. The non-acid, neutral pH value of the paper makes it safe for all kinds of art projects.

In summary, if you're looking for an affordable and versatile oil pastel paper, the Ctosree 100 Sheets Oil Pastel Paper might be a practical choice for you.

MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad A4 Size for Oil Pastel, Dry Pastel 30 Sheets (Dark Assorted)

If you're looking for a reliable and versatile paper pad for your oil pastel and dry pastel artworks, the MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad might be a good choice for you.

Pros

• The woven textured finish of the paper gives your artwork an interesting and unique look.
• The acid-free paper ensures that your artwork will not yellow or fade over time.
• The 25% cotton content adds durability and enhances the texture of your artwork.

Cons

• The A4 size might not be suitable for larger artworks.
• The dark assorted colors might not be suitable for all types of artworks.
• The texture of the paper might not be suitable for all pastel techniques.

The MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad is a great option for artists who want to experiment with different textures and colors. The woven texture of the paper adds depth and interest to your artwork, while the acid-free and cotton content ensures that your artwork will last for years to come.

The A4 size of the paper might not be suitable for larger artworks, but it's perfect for smaller pieces or sketches. The dark assorted colors might not be suitable for all types of artworks, but they add a unique touch to your pastel creations.

Overall, if you're looking for a versatile and durable paper pad for your oil pastel and dry pastel artworks, the MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper Pad is definitely worth considering.

U.S. Art Supply 9" x 12" Premium Pastel Paper Pad

If you're looking for a versatile pastel paper pad, the U.S. Art Supply 9" x 12" Premium Pastel Paper Pad might be a great choice for you.

Pros

• The 80-pound (180gsm) weight of the paper provides a durable and textured surface that enhances the vibrancy of pastel colors.
• The pad includes a variety of natural tone paper colors, providing a versatile palette to complement and elevate your pastel creations.
• With 16 sheets in each pad and a total of 32 sheets in the pack, this set ensures you have an abundant supply of premium pastel paper to fuel your creative endeavors.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the darker paper colors have been ripped in their package.
• A few customers have stated that the paper is not suitable for pastel artwork.
• The product might be too expensive for some customers.

If you're looking for a paper pad that can provide a durable and textured surface for your pastel artwork, the U.S. Art Supply 9" x 12" Premium Pastel Paper Pad might be a good choice for you. The variety of natural tone paper colors can provide a versatile palette to complement and elevate your pastel creations. However, some customers have reported that the darker paper colors have been ripped in their package, and a few customers have stated that the paper is not suitable for pastel artwork. Additionally, the product might be too expensive for some customers.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best paper for oil pastels, there are a few important features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Texture

The texture of the paper is crucial when it comes to oil pastels. A rough texture will hold more pigment and allow for more layering, while a smooth texture will produce a cleaner and more even finish. Consider the effect you want to achieve and choose a paper with the appropriate texture.

Weight

The weight of the paper refers to its thickness and is measured in pounds. A heavier paper will be more durable and less likely to wrinkle or tear, but it may also be more expensive. Consider the level of detail and layering you plan to do, and choose a paper with the appropriate weight.

Color

The color of the paper can affect the final appearance of your artwork. White paper will produce brighter and more vibrant colors, while colored paper can add depth and texture to your work. Consider the effect you want to achieve and choose a paper with the appropriate color.

Size

The size of the paper is also an important factor to consider. Larger paper will give you more space to work with and allow for more detail, but may also be more expensive and difficult to handle. Consider the size of your artwork and choose a paper with the appropriate dimensions.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best paper for your oil pastel artwork. Remember to experiment with different types of paper to find the one that works best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of paper is recommended for beginners using oil pastels?

For beginners, it is recommended to use a heavier weight paper that can withstand the application of oil pastels without tearing or smudging. Textured papers with a rough surface are ideal for oil pastels as they allow for better adhesion and blending.

Can watercolor paper be effectively used for oil pastel artwork?

Yes, watercolor paper can be used for oil pastel artwork. However, it is important to note that watercolor paper is not specifically designed for oil pastels and may not provide the same level of adhesion and blending as papers specifically made for oil pastels.

Are there specific canvas papers suited for oil pastels?

Yes, there are canvas papers specifically made for oil pastels. These papers have a canvas-like texture that allows for better adhesion and blending of the pastels. They are also more durable and can withstand heavier applications of oil pastels.

What are the advantages of using Sennelier Oil Pastel Paper?

Sennelier Oil Pastel Paper is specifically designed for oil pastels and has a unique surface texture that allows for better adhesion and blending of the pastels. The paper is also acid-free and pH neutral, ensuring the longevity of your artwork.

Is mixed media paper suitable for oil pastel techniques?

Mixed media paper can be used for oil pastel techniques, but it is important to choose a heavier weight paper with a rough surface texture to ensure proper adhesion and blending of the pastels.

Does cardstock work well with oil pastels, and what paper weight is ideal?

Cardstock can be used for oil pastels, but it is important to choose a heavier weight paper to prevent tearing and smudging. A weight of at least 140lb is recommended for best results.