Best Pastel Paper Options for Artists and Crafters

Pastel paper is a popular choice for artists and crafters alike. Its soft, muted colors can add depth and warmth to various projects, from drawings to scrapbooking. Using pastel paper can enhance the visual appeal of art while allowing for smooth blending and layering. Many artists find that pastel papers hold and showcase colors beautifully, making it a staple in their supplies.

When looking for the best pastel paper, there are a few important factors to consider. The texture of the paper plays a significant role in how well it accepts pastels or other media. Weight and thickness can affect its durability and how much abuse it can take during projects. Color selection also matters, as different shades can influence the final look of an artwork.

We researched various options to help you find the perfect pastel paper that fits your needs.

Best Pastel Paper

We have gathered a selection of the best pastel papers available. Our list features a variety of options that suit different needs for crafting, drawing, or note-taking. Each product offers unique qualities to enhance your creative projects.

Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad

This pastel paper is a strong choice for any artist looking to enhance their pastel work.

Pros

• High-quality texture that holds pigment well
• Assorted colors for creative options
• Glue-bound for easy removal of sheets

Cons

• Can be a bit pricey for some
• Limited number of sheets in the pad
• May not be ideal for all types of pastel techniques

We recently tried the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad and were impressed by its performance. The texture is just right, allowing pastels to blend beautifully. We appreciate the different subtle colors in the pad, which help create interesting contrasts in our artwork.

Using this paper was a smooth experience. It feels sturdy, and the sheets hold up well to layering. The glue binding made it easy to remove sheets without damaging them, so we could showcase our best work easily.

While it’s slightly more expensive than other brands, the quality justifies the price for us. With 24 sheets, we found ourselves wanting a bit more, especially when we enjoyed working with it so much. Overall, this pad meets our needs and enhances our pastel creations.

Canson Mi-Teintes Pastel Paper

We recommend Canson’s Mi-Teintes Pastel Paper for both beginners and experienced artists because of its quality and versatility.

Pros

• Great for blending and layering colors.
• Dual surfaces offer different textures for various techniques.
• Light-fast and made from 50% cotton, ensuring durability.

Cons

• Some may prefer a thicker paper for heavier applications.
• The earth tones might not suit everyone’s style.
• Limited sheet count could be a downside for frequent use.

Using Canson’s Mi-Teintes paper has been a great experience for us. It comes in a convenient 9 x 12 inches size and is perfect for different types of pastel work. The texture on one side is heavy, which helps when we want to layer more pastel, while the lighter texture on the other side allows for softer applications.

The light-fast quality is a standout feature. We have noticed that our artwork maintains its vibrancy over time, even with sunlight exposure. The 50% cotton content makes the paper feel sturdy and resistant to tearing, which is a big plus for any type of drawing or craft project.

While the earth tones give our work a unique touch, we recognize that they might not appeal to everyone. A few users mentioned wishing for more sheet options or even thicker paper. Still, for practicing techniques, this pad has been reliable and enjoyable to use. Overall, we believe it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to explore their creativity.

MUNGYO Pastel Paper Pad

This pastel paper pad is a great choice for anyone looking to explore their creativity with oil pastels and dry pastels.

Pros

• Features a textured surface that enhances artwork.
• Comes in a range of dark colors for diverse artistic effects.
• Acid-free and made with a good cotton content.

Cons

• Some users might expect lighter colors, as it contains dark shades.
• It holds a limited number of pastel layers effectively.
• Not available in larger sheet sizes.

After using the MUNGYO Professional Pastel Paper, we felt the quality was impressive. The woven texture gives our pastel creations a unique look that stands out. The dark colors are beautiful and can really make our artwork pop, especially when using lighter pastel shades on top.

While this paper is thick and sturdy, we noticed that it can only handle a few layers of pastel well. If you plan on layering extensively, be aware of this limitation. It’s still a good option for beginners or those experimenting with different techniques.

We also found that the dark assortment may not suit everyone’s taste. Some users expect lighter or more neutral reams. Adjusting to this could be a fun challenge, though, pushing us to explore new styles. Overall, if you want a reliable and textured paper for your pastel art, this pad is worth considering.

Canson Mi-Teintes Pastel Paper

We highly recommend the Canson Mi-Teintes Pastel Paper for artists looking for a reliable surface to work on.

Pros

• Great for blending and shading pastels
• Durable with a dual texture for varied techniques
• Acid-free paper that resists fading

Cons

• Not as thick as some might prefer
• Limited color options available
• Some sheets may arrive missing

Using the Canson Mi-Teintes pastel paper has been a delightful experience for us. The smooth and textured sides offer versatility in our artwork. We enjoy experimenting with both soft pastels and colored pencils, finding that the paper holds color remarkably well.

In terms of durability, it feels robust despite being 98 pounds. Blending pastels is smooth, which is essential for creating rich, detailed pieces. The paper’s acid-free quality gives us peace of mind about its longevity.

However, we noticed that while the thickness is adequate, it might not meet everyone’s expectations for heavier projects. Additionally, the choice of colors is somewhat limited, which could be a drawback for those seeking a specific tint. Overall, the Canson Mi-Teintes Pastel Paper is an excellent choice for practicing and perfecting our pastel skills.

Colorations Art Paper

This art paper is perfect for fun, mess-free creativity in various projects.

Pros

• Soak-resistant surface keeps our tables clean.
• Thick and durable for all kinds of paints.
• Great for kids of different ages who love to craft.

Cons

• Underperforms with watercolors compared to other paints.
• May not be suitable for heavy applications of paint.
• Some users find it limited for advanced projects.

We had a great experience using the Colorations Art Paper recently. This 9″ x 12″ paper really lives up to its promise of being soak-resistant. When our little ones painted with bright finger paints and markers, the paper handled all the mess without leaking through to our table. This feature saves us a lot of cleanup time, which is always appreciated when dealing with kids’ art projects.

The thickness of the paper is just right. It holds up well even when the kids are enthusiastic with their brush strokes. We’ve noticed that it pairs well with tempera and gel paints, allowing our young artists to express their creativity without worrying about tearing the paper. It’s reassuring to see them try different techniques, from sponging to using paint pens, all while knowing the paper can take it.

On the down side, we found that the paper didn’t quite meet expectations with watercolor paints. While it works well for acrylics and temperas, the watercolor sometimes had trouble staying on the surface. For more serious art projects, this might not be the best choice. However, for general crafting and painting with kids, we believe this paper is a reliable option to keep stocked in our art supplies.

Colorations Construction Paper Pack

We recommend this product for its excellent variety and quality for crafting and school projects.

Pros

• Great selection of colors for all kinds of projects.
• Heavyweight paper that holds up well during various activities.
• Fun for kids and adults alike, perfect for art time.

Cons

• A bit thinner than some high-end papers, but still very usable.
• Not all colors come in equal quantity, which may affect planning.
• Some users found it less suitable for very wet media like watercolor.

We recently used the Colorations Construction Paper Pack and were impressed by the wide range of colors included. The pack has 300 sheets, which means plenty to go around for big projects and classroom activities. Each color offers a good amount of sheets, ensuring that favorite colors won’t run out too fast.

The heavyweight paper makes a noticeable difference. It folds cleanly and cuts easily, making it perfect for all kinds of crafts. We enjoyed using it with markers, colored pencils, and even paint. It’s durable enough for kids, which is a big plus in our experience.

While some colors are more plentiful than others, the overall selection still allows for great creativity. We found it to be a reliable choice for both home and classroom use. All in all, this construction paper pack is a solid purchase for art enthusiasts of all ages.

Sax Manila Drawing Paper

This cream-colored drawing paper is a great choice for both students and artists.

Pros

• Good quality for various drawing needs.
• Sturdy, holds up well with different media.
• Large pack offers great value for classrooms or personal use.

Cons

• Lighter weight may not satisfy all artists.
• The rough texture might not suit everyone’s style.
• Limited color options if looking for brighter pastels.

We’ve been using the Sax Manila Drawing Paper for a variety of projects, and it’s quickly become a go-to for classroom activities. The cream color is warm and inviting, making it perfect for drawings, jotting down ideas, or creating refined presentations. We appreciate its strong, durable build which holds up to pens, markers, and even paints without tearing easily.

With a generous pack size, this paper offers a substantial quantity for the price. It’s excellent for anyone teaching art or involved in creative activities. We find it works really well for kids’ projects, encouraging them to explore their creativity without worrying about running out of paper too soon.

One thing to note is that the paper’s lighter weight means it may not be ideal for more intense art projects, such as heavy paint layering. The rough texture can also be a bit challenging for those who prefer smoother finishes. Despite this, the quality and versatility make it a solid choice for everyday use.

Canson Mi-Teintes Pastel Paper

We believe this is a solid choice for those looking to explore pastel art with quality paper.

Pros

• Great texture for pastel application
• Fun assorted colors enhance creativity
• Dual-surfaced for versatility in techniques

Cons

• Some may find it pricey for practice sheets
• Pores can be visible on lighter applications
• The texture might be challenging for detailed work

Using the Canson Mi-Teintes paper has been a delight in our art projects. The texture genuinely grabs the pastels well, making it easy to blend and layer colors. We’ve enjoyed the assorted colors that come with the pad. It inspires creativity and adds a unique touch to our artwork.

The dual-surface feature is quite handy. On one side, the heavy texture allows for bold strokes, while the smoother side is excellent for finer details. This versatility helps us switch between techniques without needing another pad.

While the weight and quality are impressive, it is essential to note the price. For beginners, it might feel a bit high for practice. Additionally, if we aren’t pressing firmly, we notice the paper’s texture can show through more than we’d like, especially on lighter colors. Still, the overall experience has been rewarding!

Astrobrights Punchy Pastel Cardstock

We found the Astrobrights Punchy Pastel Assortment to be a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add color to their projects.

Pros

• Beautiful assortment of soft pastel colors.
• Compatible with inkjet and laser printers for easy printing.
• Lignin and acid-free, ensuring long-lasting quality.

Cons

• Limited to a specific size of 8.5” x 11”, may not fit all projects.
• Thinner than some other cardstock options.
• Some users may prefer brighter colors for projects.

We enjoyed using this cardstock for various crafting needs, from making invitations to creating vibrant posters. The colors in this pack—Lively Lemon, Breezy Blue, Bubble Gum, Merry Mint, and Punchy Peach—are soft yet bright enough to stand out. Each sheet feels smooth and easy to work with, giving our projects a polished look.

Printing on the Astrobrights cardstock was straightforward. It worked well with our inkjet printer, and the images came out crisp and clear without any jams. We appreciate that we can save on colored ink by using these sheets while still achieving beautiful results.

One feature we value is that this paper is lignin and acid-free. This means our creations won’t yellow, so we can keep them looking fresh over time. Overall, if you’re in need of pastel paper for current or future projects, this assortment is a reliable option.

Buying Guide

Choosing the right pastel paper is important for our artwork. Let’s look at some key features to consider.

Texture
The texture of the paper affects how our pastels blend. We should look for a surface that suits our style. Options include:

• Tooth: Rougher surfaces hold more pastel.
• Smooth: Ideal for detailed work.

Weight
The weight of the paper tells us how sturdy it is. Heavier papers can handle more layers and pressure. We usually see weights like:

• Lightweight (90-150 gsm): Good for practice.
• Heavyweight (200+ gsm): Best for finished pieces.

Color
The color of the paper can change how our pastels look. Bright or dark shades can create different effects. Consider a range that fits our projects.

Acidity
Acid-free paper lasts longer without fading or yellowing. We want our artwork to last, so this is a crucial factor.

Size
Papers come in various sizes. Choosing the right size helps with our composition. Common sizes include:

• Standard (9×12 inches)
• Large (18×24 inches)

By considering these features, we can find the best pastel paper for our needs. Understanding what to look for will help us enhance our art.