Oil pastels are a popular artistic medium because they are easy to use, blend well, and have a creamy consistency that allows for smooth and vibrant color application. They are also portable and easy to clean up, making them a convenient choice for artists on the go.
However, one downside to using oil pastels is that they can smudge or smear over time, especially if they are not properly sealed or protected.
This can be frustrating for artists who want their work to last and be displayed without fear of smudging or smearing. In this blog, we will explore different options for sealing oil pastels to prevent smudging and protect the artwork.
Use a Fixative Spray Specifically Designed for Oil Pastels
A fixative spray is a product specifically designed to set pastels and prevent smudging. It works by creating a thin, transparent layer on the surface of the pastel drawing that helps to set the pastels in place.
Fixative spray can be an effective way to seal oil pastels and protect them from smudging or smearing. When using a fixative spray, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the product in a well-ventilated area.
Some fixative sprays may contain harmful chemicals, so it is important to use caution and protect yourself from inhaling the spray. To get the best results when using a fixative spray, it is important to apply it evenly and in thin layers.
Avoid oversaturating the pastels, as this can cause the colors to appear dull and may even cause the pastels to dissolve. It is also a good idea to test the spray on a small area of the pastel drawing before applying it to the entire piece.
This will allow you to see how the spray affects the pastels and make any necessary adjustments before applying it to the entire piece.
Use a Clear, Glossy Varnish or Medium to Seal the Pastels
Varnish or medium is a clear, glossy substance that can be applied to the surface of oil pastels to protect them from smudging or smearing.
Varnish or medium works by creating a protective layer on the surface of the pastels that helps to set the colors and prevent them from smudging or smearing.
When using varnish or medium, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the product in a well-ventilated area.
Some varnishes or mediums may contain harmful chemicals, so it is important to use caution and protect yourself from inhaling the fumes.
To get the best results when using varnish or medium, it is important to apply it evenly and in thin layers. Avoid oversaturating the pastels, as this can cause the colors to appear dull and may even cause the pastels to dissolve.
It is also a good idea to test the varnish or medium on a small area of the pastel drawing before applying it to the entire piece. This will allow you to see how the varnish or medium affects the pastels and make any necessary adjustments before applying it to the entire piece.
Keep in mind that varnish or medium can change the appearance of the pastels, so it is important to consider this before applying it to your artwork.
Some artists prefer the glossy finish that varnish or medium provides, while others prefer the natural, matte finish of the pastels. Experiment with different varnishes or mediums to find the one that works best for your artwork.
Use a Double Matting Technique
Double matting is a technique that involves using two mats to frame a piece of artwork. The first mat, also known as the “back mat,” is placed behind the artwork and is usually cut to fit the size of the artwork.
The second mat, also known as the “front mat,” is placed on top of the artwork and is cut to fit the size of the frame.
Double matting creates a space between the pastel drawing and the glass, protecting it from smudging and dust. This can be especially useful for oil pastels, as the thick layers of pastel can be prone to smudging if they come into contact with the glass.
To get the best results when using double matting, it is important to choose mats that complement the colors and tones of the pastel drawing.
Avoid using mats that are too bright or bold, as they can distract from the artwork. It is also a good idea to choose mats that are acid-free, as the acid in the mats can cause the pastels to fade over time.
In addition to protecting the pastel drawing from smudging and dust, double matting can also add a professional touch to your artwork and help it stand out in a frame. Experiment with different matting combinations to find the one that works best for your artwork.
Display the Pastel Drawing in a Shadow Box Frame
A shadow box frame is a type of frame that has a deeper space between the glass and the artwork, allowing for the display of three-dimensional objects or artwork with added depth.
Shadow box frames are often used to display objects such as souvenirs, collectibles, or artwork with raised elements, as the added depth allows for these elements to be displayed without being flattened against the glass.
Using a shadow box frame can be a good option for displaying oil pastels, as the added depth creates a space between the pastel drawing and the glass, protecting it from smudging.
This can be especially useful for thick layers of pastels, as the extra space helps to prevent the pastels from coming into contact with the glass.
To get the best results when using a shadow box frame, it is important to choose a frame that is the appropriate size and depth for your artwork. It is also a good idea to choose a frame with UV-protective glass, as this will help to prevent fading caused by sunlight.
In addition to protecting the pastel drawing from smudging, a shadow box frame can also add a unique and eye-catching element to your artwork. Experiment with different shadow box frames to find the one that works best for your artwork.
Options for Sealing Oil Pastels
| Technique | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixative spray | A product specifically designed to set pastels and prevent smudging | Easy to use and widely available | May contain harmful chemicals |
| Clear, glossy varnish or medium | A clear, glossy substance applied to the surface of the pastels to protect them from smudging | Can provide a glossy finish and protect the pastels | Can alter the appearance of the pastels |
| Double matting | A technique that involves using two mats to frame a piece of artwork, creating a space between the pastel drawing and the glass | Protects the pastels from smudging and dust | May be more expensive than other options |
| Shadow box frame | A frame with a deeper space between the glass and the artwork, allowing for the display of three-dimensional objects or artwork with added depth | Protects the pastels from smudging and adds a unique element to the artwork | May be more expensive than other options |
It is important to consider the specific needs of your artwork when choosing a technique for sealing oil pastels. Experiment with different techniques to find the one that works best for your artwork.
FAQs
Some artists have had success using hairspray as a fixative for oil pastels, but it is important to keep in mind that hairspray is not specifically designed for use with pastels and may not provide the same level of protection as a fixative spray specifically designed for oil pastels. Hairspray can also contain chemicals that may alter the appearance of the pastels or cause them to fade over time.
There is no one “best” sealer for oil pastels, as different techniques work better for different artwork. Some popular options for sealing oil pastels include fixative spray specifically designed for oil pastels, clear, glossy varnish or medium, double matting, and shadow box framing. It is important to experiment with different techniques to find the one that works best for your artwork.
There are several options for sealing pastels, including oil pastels and soft pastels. Some popular options include using a fixative spray specifically designed for pastels, using a clear, glossy varnish or medium to seal the pastels, using a double matting technique, and displaying the pastel drawing in a shadow box frame. It is important to experiment with different techniques to find the one that works best for your artwork.
Some artists choose to varnish oil pastels to protect them from smudging or smearing and to give the artwork a glossy finish. However, varnish can alter the appearance of the pastels and may not be suitable for all artwork. It is important to consider the specific needs of your artwork before deciding whether or not to varnish your oil pastels.
It is not necessary to use a fixative for oil pastels, but it can be a good option for artists who want to protect their artwork from smudging or smearing and ensure its longevity. Fixative spray specifically designed for oil pastels can be an effective way to seal the pastels and protect them from smudging.
Oil pastels can be sealed to prevent smudging or smearing and protect the artwork. Some popular options for sealing oil pastels include using a fixative spray specifically designed for oil pastels, using a clear, glossy varnish or medium to seal the pastels, using a double matting technique, and displaying the pastel drawing in a shadow box frame.
Oil pastels are resistant to water and will not wash off easily. However, they can smudge or smear if they come into contact with water or other liquids. It is important to handle oil pastels with care and protect them from smudging or smearing to ensure their longevity.
Oil pastel paintings can last for many years if they are properly cared for and protected from smudging or smearing. It is important to handle oil pastels with care and consider sealing the pastels to protect the artwork and ensure its longevity.
Mod Podge is a decoupage medium that is not specifically designed for use with oil pastels. While some artists have had success using Mod Podge as a fixative for oil.
Conclusion
There are several options for sealing oil pastels to prevent smudging and protect the artwork. These include using a fixative spray specifically designed for oil pastels, using a clear, glossy varnish or medium to seal the pastels, using a double matting technique, and displaying the pastel drawing in a shadow box frame.
It is important for artists to experiment with different techniques to find the one that works best for their artwork. Each technique has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to consider the specific needs of your artwork before deciding on a sealing method.
Regardless of the technique chosen, it is important to handle oil pastels with care and protect them from smudging or smearing to ensure their longevity. By taking the necessary precautions and choosing the right sealing method, artists can enjoy their oil pastel artwork for years to come.
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