Mixing pastel colors isn't done like mixing paints on a palette. Instead, you blend them directly onto your artwork. This allows for a unique layering and blending effect.
Techniques for Mixing Pastel Colors
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Direct Blending on the Surface: The most common method involves applying two or more pastel colors side-by-side on your surface, then blending them together using your finger. This is ideal for larger areas. For smaller areas, use a blending stump. [Source: Canson®, Reddit, How To Pastel]
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Layering: Instead of direct blending, you can layer colors on top of each other to create new hues. This allows for more subtle transitions and maintains the vibrancy of the individual pastel strokes. [Source: Sophie Ploeg]
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Using Primary Colors: Create a wide range of colors by starting with primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) and blending or layering them. You can even create grays by mixing varying amounts of these primary colors with white. [Source: Gorgeous Greys - How To Create Them With Soft Pastels]
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Diluting with Water (Watercolor Pastels): With watercolor pastels, "mixing" often involves diluting a color with water to create lighter, pastel versions of the original shade. Finding the right starting color is key. [Source: Susan Chiang]
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Mixing Pastel Icing (Culinary Application): In the context of food coloring, creating pastel shades involves adding small amounts of a darker color to a large quantity of white icing to achieve a pastel effect. [Source: Lila Loa]
Tools for Blending
- Fingers: The most versatile tool, especially for broad blending.
- Blending Stumps: Ideal for smaller areas and detailed blending.
It's important to note that mixing pastel colors directly on the surface allows for a unique textural quality that's not achievable with other mediums. Experiment with different techniques and tools to find what works best for you.
