What Are Water Soluble Oil Pastels?
- Many companies offer water soluble oils, but as of May, 2011, there are two main lines of water soluble oil pastels: Cretacolor and the Portfolio series by Crayola. At around $70, Cretacolor offers the most comprehensive set of 40 colors. Crayola's Portfolio series is reasonably priced at around $15 for a pack of 24.
- Oil pastels are typically applied directly to the canvas in an "all-at-once" fashion. Use a brush as with acrylic or oil paint mediums to spread, thin and redistribute the paint once it is applied to the canvas. Another option is to scrape, cut or apply a portion of the oil pastel to a palette, thin and apply to the canvas with a brush.
- Although water soluble oil pastels are compatible with acrylic mediums, they cannot be used with oil mediums. Remember to keep them separate when working. Oil glazes are made with turpentine, linseed oil and Damar varnish. Use the "fat over lean" technique with oil mediums to ensure that your painting cures properly. Mix three sets of oil mediums: one with 1/2 part turpentine, 1/4 part Damar varnish and 1/4 part linseed oil; one with equal parts of each substance; and one with 1/2 part linseed oil, 1/4 part turpentine and 1/4 part Damar varnish. Store these mediums in glass jars with lids. Apply the lean -- turpentine rich layers -- first, and the fat -- linseed oil layers -- last. Work in a well-ventilated area when using oil mediums, and store excess mediums in a safe place. Use turpentine to clean brushes.
- Acrylic mediums come premixed, but can be used to add texture, apply glazes or retard, or extend, drying times. Water can also be used as a medium or to clean brushes.