Pentel Oil Pastels

Pentel Oil Pastels (part of the Pentel Arts line) are widely considered one of the classic entry-level art supplies in the world. They sit firmly in the student-to-hobbyist grade, known for being extremely affordable, accessible, and versatile for quick sketches and mixed-media projects.

Key Characteristics & Performance

Stick Size & Profile: Small, slim, round sticks measuring approximately 60 mm long × 9 mm wide. They are smaller and thinner than standard oil pastels (like Faber-Castell or Mungyo), which makes them easier to hold for smaller hands or quick sketchbook work.

Texture & Hardness: Semi-firm to medium-soft. They contain a bit more wax binder than professional-grade pastels. This keeps the sticks sturdy and less likely to snap, but it means they feel slightly closer to a soft crayon than a super-creamy, buttery pastel.

Drying & Blendability: They have a very slow drying time, allowing you to work on pieces over days or weeks. They blend reasonably well using fingers, tortillons (blending stumps), or cotton buds. Warming the sticks in your hands slightly helps them lay down and blend more smoothly.

Solvent Reactions: Like most oil pastels, they dissolve easily with mineral spirits, turpentine, or baby oil to create smooth, paint-like washes.

Lightfastness: Designed for practice, study, and craft work rather than gallery display; lightfastness ratings are not provided for the standard line.