Guide to Using Pastels in Your Scrapbooking and Mixed Media Projects

Guide to Using Pastels in Your Scrapbooking and Mixed Media Projects

Pastels are a versatile and vibrant medium that can bring depth, texture, and a soft, artistic touch to your scrapbooking and mixed media creations. Whether you prefer soft pastels, oil Pastels, or pastel pencils, this guide will help you understand how to use them effectively, choose the right colours, and incorporate them seamlessly into your projects.

Why Use Pastels in Scrapbooking and Mixed Media

Pastels offer a unique look that differs from paints or inks:

• Soft, Blended Effects: Perfect for creating dreamy backgrounds, soft shading, and subtle gradients.

• Vibrant Colors: Pastels allow for rich, vivid pops of color without being overpowering.

• Texture and Dimension: They can be layered, smudged, and blended to create tactile interest on your pages.

• Versatility: Work on paper, cardstock, mixed media boards, and even over gesso or acrylic bases.

Types of Pastels

Tips for Using Pastels in Your Projects

• Layer Gradually: Build colors slowly to avoid overpowering your design.

• Blend Creatively: Use fingers, sponges, or blending tools to create smooth transitions.

• Combine with Other Mediums: Pastels work beautifully over watercolor, acrylic, ink sprays, or gesso surfaces.

• Experiment with Textures: Mix pastels with stencils, embossing, or textured papers for interesting effects.

• Seal Your Work: Lightly spray a fixative over finished areas to preserve your pastel work.

• Blending Tools & Accessories – Blending tools , sponges, and fixatives to enhance your pastel techniques.

Pastels can transform your scrapbook and mixed media projects, adding softness, dimension, and vibrant color in ways other mediums can’t. Experiment with different types, layering, and blending techniques to discover the perfect style for your creations.

Explore the full range of pastels and accessories including brands such as: Mont Marte, Jane Davenport, Semco, Pan Pastel, Prismacolor & Neocolor over at ScrappingClearly and elevate your spring-themed scrapbooking and mixed media projects with beautiful, versatile color.