How to Finish an Oil Pastel Painting

Do you ever find yourself struggling to finish an oil pastel painting? Perhaps you get stuck on the details or lose inspiration halfway through. It can be frustrating to put so much time and effort into a piece only to be left with an unfinished product.

But fear not, as there are simple steps you can take to ensure that you complete your oil pastel painting with ease. From setting goals and staying organized to exploring new techniques and finding inspiration, this article will guide you through the process of finishing your artwork.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced artist, this article is designed to help you push through any creative blocks or challenges that may arise. Say goodbye to unfinished paintings and hello to a completed masterpiece that you can be proud of. Let’s dive in!

Materials Needed to Finish an Oil Pastel Painting

Oil pastels are a unique medium that requires specific materials to finish and preserve your artwork. Here are some of the essential items you will need:

1. Fixative or Varnish

Fixative or varnish is an essential finishing material for oil pastels. It protects your artwork from dust, moisture, and fading due to exposure to sunlight. You can choose between workable fixatives that allow you to continue working on your painting or final fixatives that protect the finished artwork.

The Difference Between Workable and Final Fixatives:

Workable fixatives allow you to layer more colors on top of the existing layers after they dry out. They also help blend colors together and create smooth transitions between different shades. On the other hand, final fixatives should be applied only when your painting is complete because they can’t be worked on anymore.

2. Paper Towels

Paper towels are used for cleaning your hands during the painting process as well as smoothing out unwanted textures in your painting.

3. Soft Cloth

A soft cloth is necessary for blending oil pastels and removing excess pigment from the surface of your painting.

Tips for Cleaning Your Soft Cloth:

Clean your cloth regularly by washing it with soap and water, then hang it up to dry completely before using it again.

4. Razor Blade or X-Acto Knife

Razor blades or X-Acto knives are used for scratching into the surface of your painting, adding texture or fine details.

Safety Tips:

Be careful when using sharp tools like razor blades or X-Acto knives; always cut away from yourself, use a cutting mat or cardboard underneath, and keep them away from children.

Preparing the Surface of Your Oil Pastel Painting for Finishing

Before applying any fixative or varnish to your oil pastel painting, it’s important to prepare the surface by cleaning it thoroughly and removing any unwanted textures. Here are some tips for preparing your painting:

1. Cleaning the Surface

Use a soft cloth or paper towel to remove any excess pigment, dirt, or dust from the surface of your painting. Be gentle when cleaning so that you don’t smudge or damage any of the details in your artwork.

Tip:

To prevent unwanted textures and marks on your artwork while cleaning, wrap a piece of paper around your finger and use it to gently rub over the surface.

2. Removing Unwanted Textures

If there are any unwanted textures on your painting, use a clean razor blade or X-Acto knife to scratch them off gently. This will create a smooth surface that is ready for finishing.

Tip:

When scratching into the surface of your painting with a razor blade or X-Acto knife, make sure to do so lightly and only in one direction at a time to avoid damaging the underlying layers of color.

Blending and Layering Techniques for a Finished Look in Oil Pastel Paintings

Blending and layering are essential techniques used in oil pastel paintings to create depth, texture, and visual interest. Here are some tips for achieving a finished look in your oil pastel paintings:

1. Blending Colors Together

To blend colors together in an oil pastel painting, use a soft cloth or your fingers to blend colors together gently. Start with lighter colors first before adding darker colors on top.

Tips:

• To achieve a smooth transition between two colors, blend them together gradually rather than all at once.
• You can also use solvents like turpentine or mineral spirits to blend colors together in oil pastels. However, these should be used carefully and in a well-ventilated area because they are toxic.

2. Layering Colors for Depth and Texture

Layering is another important technique used in oil pastel paintings to create depth and texture. Start with lighter colors first and gradually build up darker colors on top.

Tips:

• Use multiple layers of different shades of the same color to create a more complex look.
• Create contrast by layering complementary colors next to each other.

Choosing Between Fixative and Varnish for Protecting Your Oil Pastel Painting

When it comes to protecting your oil pastel painting, you have the option of using either fixative or varnish. Here are some factors to consider when choosing between the two:

1. Purpose

Fixative is intended to protect your painting from smudging or rubbing off during transportation or storage, while varnish is intended to protect your painting from fading due to exposure to sunlight.

Tips:

• If you plan on framing your painting behind glass, you may not need to use fixative because the glass will protect it from smudging.
• If you want your painting to have a glossy finish, choose a varnish that has a glossier finish than matte.

2. Type of Fixative or Varnish

There are different types of fixatives and varnishes available for oil pastel paintings, including workable fixatives, final fixatives, and spray varnishes.

Tips:

• Choose a workable fixative if you want to continue working on your painting after it dries.
• Choose a final fixative if you are finished with your painting and want to protect it from smudging or rubbing off.
• Choose a spray varnish if you want an even coat of protection that is easy to apply.

Timing Considerations for Applying Fixative or Varnish to Your Oil Pastel Painting

Applying fixative or varnish at the right time can make all the difference in protecting your oil pastel painting. Here are some timing considerations to keep in mind:

1. Workable Fixatives

If you’re using a workable fixative, wait until the top layer of your painting is completely dry before applying it. This will help prevent smudging and blending of colors during the application process.

Tips:

• If you’re not sure whether your painting is dry, touch it gently with the back of your hand. If it feels cool to the touch, it’s still wet.
• When spraying workable fixative onto your painting, hold the can about 10-12 inches away from the surface and spray in short bursts rather than one continuous stream.

2. Final Fixatives

If you’re using a final fixative, wait until your painting is completely finished before applying it. You don’t want to risk damaging any of the details or textures by continuing to work on your painting after applying the final fixative.

Tips:

• Hold the can about 10-12 inches away from the surface when spraying final fixative and spray in short bursts rather than one continuous stream.
• Apply multiple coats of final fixative for added protection, waiting at least 10 minutes between each coat.

Adding Details and Highlights to Your Finished Oil Pastel Painting

Once you’ve finished your oil pastel painting and applied the necessary fixatives or varnishes, you may want to add some final details or highlights. Here are some techniques to consider:

1. Scratch into the Surface

Use a razor blade or X-Acto knife to scratch into the surface of your painting and create fine details or texture.

Tips:

• Be careful not to damage any underlying layers of color when scratching into the surface.
• Make sure your painting is completely dry before scratching into it to prevent smudging or blending of colors.

2. Use White Oil Pastel for Highlights

Use white oil pastel to add highlights to your painting. Apply it lightly on top of existing colors using a soft cloth or your fingers.

Tips:

• To achieve a more subtle highlight, blend the white oil pastel with the surrounding colors rather than applying it directly on top.
• If you’re working on a dark background, use a colored pencil instead of white oil pastel for highlights.

Framing Techniques and Considerations for Oil Pastel Paintings

Framing an oil pastel painting requires some special considerations due to its unique medium. Here are some tips for framing your oil pastel painting:

1. Matting

Matting is an important consideration when framing an oil pastel painting because it helps prevent smudging or rubbing of the surface. Use acid-free matting to avoid any discoloration or damage to your painting.

Tips:

• Choose a mat that complements the colors in your painting, but doesn’t overpower them.
• Use a double matting technique for added protection and visual interest.

2. Glazing

When framing an oil pastel painting, use glazing such as glass or acrylic sheeting to protect it from dust, moisture, and fading due to exposure to sunlight.

Tips:

• Use UV-resistant glass or acrylic sheeting to prevent fading due to exposure to sunlight.
• Clean the glazing regularly with a soft cloth and glass cleaner to prevent dust buildup.

Prolonging the Longevity and Preservation of Your Finished Oil Pastel Painting

Oil pastels require some special care and attention when it comes to preserving their longevity. Here are some tips for prolonging the life of your oil pastel painting:

1. Storage

Store your oil pastel paintings in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid storing them in damp areas like basements or attics because this can cause mold growth.

Tips:

• Wrap your paintings in acid-free paper before storing them to prevent discoloration or damage from contact with other materials.
• If you’re storing multiple paintings together, make sure they don’t touch each other directly because this can cause smudging or blending of colors.

2. Handling

Handle your oil pastel paintings carefully by avoiding touching the surface with your fingers or hands. This can cause smudging or rubbing off of the pigments.

Tips:

• Wear cotton gloves when handling your oil pastel paintings to avoid contact with the surface.
• If you must touch the surface, do so gently and only with clean hands or fingers wrapped in a piece of paper or cloth.

3. Cleaning

Clean your oil pastel paintings regularly using a soft cloth or brush to remove any dust or dirt that may have accumulated on the surface.

Tips:

• Be gentle when cleaning to avoid smudging or rubbing off any of the pigments.
• Avoid using water or solvents to clean your oil pastel paintings because this can damage the surface and underlying layers of color.

In conclusion, finishing an oil pastel painting requires careful consideration of the materials and techniques used. By following the right steps and using the right tools, artists can achieve a beautiful and long-lasting final product.

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Finish an Oil Pastel Painting

Can you varnish an oil pastel painting?
Oil and wax pastels do not dry and are best displayed behind glass. It is not recommended to apply varnish, but if it is attempted, it is important to follow the instructions of the manufacturer for sealants and fixatives.

Should oil pastel paintings be framed under glass?
In order to prevent smudging and damage to pastel paintings, they should be framed with glass. But it is important to ensure that the painting does not touch the glass, as the pastel particles can stick to the glass and cause harm to the artwork.

Can I use hairspray to seal oil pastels?
Although some artists do not prefer the way hairspray dries, research indicates that it is an effective option for preventing oil pastels from smudging. The use of hairspray ensures that the colors remain consistent without appearing lighter or darker than intended.

Can you seal a pastel painting?
Oil pastels are easily affected by solvents and smudging, and it is possible to create a protective seal or coating similar to a fixative.

What is the best varnish for oil pastel?
Talens Varnish for Oil Pastels is a product that provides protection for artwork created with oil pastels and wax crayons. It not only prevents smudging but also gives a satin gloss finish. This varnish can be thinned with water and dries in just one hour to create a transparent and waterproof finish.

What can you use over oil pastels?
Sennelier D’Artigny Oil Pastel Fixative produces a glossy finish, which can be altered by applying acrylic varnish on top. Krylon Kamar spray varnish is also recommended by some artists as it provides a protective coating for both oils and acrylics without yellowing.