Hard pastels are versatile tools used in drawing and painting, offering unique applications that differ from their softer counterparts. They excel in detail work and creating sharp lines. Here's a breakdown of how to effectively use hard pastels:
Understanding Hard Pastels
Hard pastels contain less pigment and more binder compared to soft pastels. This results in a harder, more durable stick that produces less dust and allows for precise mark-making.
Key Applications
- Creating Initial Outlines: The sharp edge of hard pastels is ideal for drawing preliminary sketches and outlines directly onto the paper. This allows you to set up your composition accurately before adding softer pastel layers.
- Detail Work: Because they don't crumble easily, hard pastels are perfect for adding fine details, such as hair, fur, or small textures.
- Layering: Hard pastels can act as a base layer for subsequent applications of softer pastels. The harder texture grips the paper well, offering a foundation for layers of more pigment-rich pastel.
Techniques for Using Hard Pastels
Feathering and Softening Edges
According to the reference, instead of smudging, use the edge of the pastel stick to feather the color into the paper. This is effective when you need to weaken the color or soften any edges.
- Gently move the stick back and forth, with very little pressure, at the edge you're trying to soften to produce a feathered look.
Adjusting Values
If you need to lighten or darken a specific part of your work, use the edge of the pastel to gently nudge the color into the area. This technique allows for subtle alterations of tonal values.
- Lightening: Use light pressure with a light-toned pastel over the area, to gently lift the value.
- Darkening: Use a darker-toned pastel, applying just enough pressure to introduce the darker pigment without covering the base layer.
Blending with Care
Although hard pastels aren't designed for blending like soft pastels, you can still achieve smooth transitions:
- Layering: Apply thin layers of hard pastel and use a finger or blending tool very sparingly, only as needed.
- Hatching and Cross-hatching: Build up tone by making parallel lines or crossing lines. This is better than smudging with hard pastels.
Working with Hard Pastels on Different Papers
| Paper Type | How to Use Hard Pastels |
|---|---|
| Textured Paper | Hard pastels work particularly well on textured paper, as the tooth grabs the pastel pigment. This helps in creating a more even layer. |
| Smooth Paper | On smooth paper, hard pastels might not grab as well. You may need to work with more pressure to get the pigment to adhere, and may need to work over the area several times to build up the layers. |
| Pastel Paper | The best papers to use are made for pastels. They come in a variety of colors and textures. |
Practical Insights
- Start Light: Always begin with a light touch and gradually build up the desired intensity.
- Layering: Work in layers. This allows for greater control and avoids heavy, muddy areas.
- Sharp Edges: Keep the edges of your hard pastels sharp to maintain precise lines.
- Cleanliness: Clean your pastels on a paper towel after blending, to avoid unintentional mixing of colors.
