Pastel Pencils are ideal for making colour sketches on the spot for later use as the basis for finished work. Various techniques are available with pencils: a sharp point for fine work or diluted in water for underpainting grounds.

When kept sharp, their fine points can also be used for retouching and overlaying work in soft pastels. The angle and the pressure applied can be varied for coarse or fine, dense or light lines etc. Large lead (diameter: 4.7 mm), strong point, rich texture that adheres well to most surfaces, creamy to apply and shades easily.

KEY FEATURES OF THE PASTEL PENCIL

• Two complementary mediums offering different formats and hardness: Pencils and Cubes.
• Range of 84 rich and vibrant colours
• Powdery texture, generous shading
• Purity of shades, high concentration of ultra-fine pigments
• Powerful coverage, exceptional lightfastness (Blue Wool scale)
• Easy, even shading
• Rich colours that are particularly popular with pastel artists
• Conformity with ASTM D 4336 (AP for USA only)

The Blue Wool Scale

Caran d'Ache provides clear information on the lightfastness of all these 84 colours, ranging from ★ to ★★★★★. Some colours will remain unaltered for up to 100 years. The lightfastness rating is based on the Blue Wool Scale, which measures the resistance of the colours when exposed to light.

• Professional artists can use colours with a ★★★★★ or ★★★★ rating. They will remain unaltered for decades.
• Colours with a ★★★ rating are satisfactory. Still, they will last longer if used in concentrated form or if the work is protected by anti-UV glass or exhibited under subdued lighting.
• Colours with a ★ and ★★ rating are not suitable for works that are permanently on show.