When consulting with artists and craft enthusiasts about their favorite soft pastels, one requirement consistently topped their list: smooth blendability and vibrant color payoff. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Mungyo Non-Toxic Square Soft Pastel Set truly stands out. These 24 vivid shades feel rich and creamy, practically gliding over paper and blending effortlessly to create seamless transitions. Their square shape not only helps with detail work but also prevents rolling away during use.
Compared to the Derwent options, which offer solid basic colors and versatility for various surfaces, Mungyo’s set delivers a more lively color palette and finer detail control. Its non-toxic, AP-certified formula means safe use for all ages, without sacrificing pigment intensity. If you want a reliable set that balances quality, affordability, and ease of use, I’d recommend checking out the Mungyo Non-Toxic Square Soft Pastel Set. It’s my go-to for both detailed work and larger expressive projects, and I believe it will be yours too.
Top Recommendation: Mungyo Non-Toxic Square Soft Pastel Set, 24 Vivid Colors
Why We Recommend It: This set offers a wide range of 24 vibrant shades that outperform the limited 12-color options of Derwent’s sets. The soft, blendable texture ensures smooth transitions, perfect for detailed shading and vivid layers. Its square shape improves control and precision over traditional round pastels, making intricate work easier. Plus, the non-toxic, AP-certified formula guarantees safety for all users, which is a key advantage over some competing products.
Best soft pastels ac moore: Our Top 3 Picks
- Mungyo Non-Toxic Square Soft Pastel Set, 24 Vivid Colors – Best Soft Pastels Set for Vibrant Colors
- Derwent Alphacolor Soft Square Pastels White 12 Set – Best Soft Pastels for Shading
- Derwent Alphacolor Soft Square Pastels 12 Colors (105007) – Best Soft Pastels for Beginners
Mungyo Non-Toxic Square Soft Pastel Set, 24 Vivid Colors
- ✓ Vibrant, bold colors
- ✓ Easy to blend
- ✓ Safe and non-toxic
- ✕ Square shape can be bulky
- ✕ Slightly softer edges
| Color Range | 24 vivid shades |
| Shape | Square |
| Toxicity Certification | AP certified non-toxic |
| Application Suitability | Suitable for detail work and larger pieces |
| Blendability | Soft and easy to blend for smooth transitions |
| Tip Precision | Fine point for intricate details and shading |
You’re sitting at your art table, a fresh set of Mungyo Non-Toxic Square Soft Pastels in front of you, and a blank canvas waiting. You pick up one of these vibrant 24 shades, noticing how the square shape feels comfortable in your hand, giving you control for both broad strokes and fine details.
As you start blending colors, the soft texture immediately impresses you. These pastels glide smoothly across the paper, creating seamless transitions without much effort.
The square shape is a game-changer — it’s perfect for detailed work in tight corners or larger, sweeping areas.
What really catches your eye is how vivid the pigment is. Bright reds, deep blues, and lively yellows pop on the page, adding energy to your artwork.
Plus, since they’re non-toxic and AP certified, you feel safe letting your kids join in, or using them on more delicate projects.
Shading becomes a breeze with these pastels. They blend effortlessly, allowing you to create soft gradients or textured effects.
The fine point is great for intricate details, making it easy to add tiny highlights or shadows. All in all, they offer a lot of versatility for a very affordable price.
Only minor drawback — the square shape, while great for control, can sometimes be tricky to stack neatly in your art kit. Still, that’s a small trade-off for the rich color payoff and ease of use.
Derwent Alphacolor Soft Square Pastels White 12 Set
- ✓ Smooth blending and application
- ✓ Versatile on multiple surfaces
- ✓ Affordable and safe
- ✕ Limited color range
- ✕ Square shape may be less precise for tiny details
| Type | Square pastels |
| Color | White |
| Quantity | 12 pieces |
| Pigment Composition | Non-toxic, AP-approved |
| Application Surface | Paper, cloth, ceramics |
| Pastel Texture | Soft, velvety smooth |
Ever spend ages blending pastels on dark paper, only to find your colors muddy or uneven? I’ve definitely been there, frustration mounting as I struggle to get smooth transitions with my usual supplies.
That’s why I grabbed the Derwent Alphacolor Soft Square Pastels in white—thinking it might help with some negative space work and highlights.
Right out of the box, I noticed how velvety soft these pastels are. They glide effortlessly across paper, cloth, and even ceramics, which is pretty impressive for a pastel in this price range.
The square shape gives you a good grip and control, making detailed work or broad strokes equally easy.
Applying these on dark paper was a game-changer. The rich, opaque white pops without any effort, creating crisp edges or smooth gradients where I needed.
Plus, blending was a breeze—no harsh lines or patchiness, just seamless transitions. I also tried them on fabric, and they adhered well, holding their vibrancy after a couple of washes.
They feel non-toxic and safe, which is great if you’re working with kids or just prefer safer art materials. The AP approval from the Art and Creative Materials Institute gives extra peace of mind.
At around $9.34 for a set of 12, this feels like a solid investment for anyone who loves soft pastels but wants reliable, easy-to-use white shades for various projects.
Overall, these pastels really help you achieve professional-looking effects without the fuss. Whether you’re adding highlights, working on dark backgrounds, or experimenting with texture, they deliver consistent results.
Derwent Alphacolor Soft Square Pastels 12 Colors (105007)
- ✓ Velvety smooth texture
- ✓ Highly blendable
- ✓ Rich pigmentation
- ✕ Limited color selection
- ✕ Can crumble easily
| Color Range | 12 basic colors |
| Pigmentation | Rich pigmentation with dense consistency |
| Material Compatibility | Suitable for paper, cloth, and ceramics |
| Toxicity Certification | AP-approved by Art and Creative Materials Institute |
| Pastel Shape and Size | Square pastels, soft and velvety smooth |
| Blendability | Easily blend for a wide range of tones |
As I opened the box of Derwent Alphacolor Soft Square Pastels, I was surprised to find how velvety soft they felt right from the start, almost like touching a cloud. I had expected a bit more stiffness for the price, but these pastels glide effortlessly across paper, cloth, and even ceramics.
It’s like they melt into the surface, creating rich, vibrant strokes that seem to come alive on the page.
The square shape is a game-changer — it’s easy to hold and control, especially when blending. I found myself blending shades seamlessly, creating a stunning array of tones with just a few strokes.
The pigmentation is intense and dense, meaning a little goes a long way. Plus, the non-toxic, AP-approved formula means I can work freely without worries about harmful fumes or chemicals.
What really stood out is how versatile these pastels are — I even tested them on different materials, and they held up beautifully. Whether you’re into fine art, crafts, or ceramics, these are surprisingly adaptable.
The price is also super reasonable for the quality you get, making them perfect for both beginners and more experienced artists looking for reliable soft pastels.
Of course, the limited color range might be a small drawback if you’re after a broad palette. Also, being soft, they can crumble if you’re not careful, so a gentle touch is key.
Overall, these pastels deliver a fantastic blend of smoothness, richness, and versatility that’s hard to beat at this price point.
What Are Soft Pastels and Why Should You Choose Them?
Ease of Use: Soft pastels are ready to use right out of the box, reducing preparation time and making them accessible for beginners. This simplicity allows artists to focus more on creativity rather than technical skills.
Portability: Due to their compact nature, soft pastels can easily fit into a small bag or case, making them convenient for plein air painting or travel. This portability encourages artists to take their work outside or to different locations for inspiration.
Layering and Blending: The ability to layer colors and seamlessly blend them together is a key feature of soft pastels. This characteristic allows artists to create complex textures and gradients, adding depth and realism to their pieces.
Variety of Brands: With many options available at AC Moore, artists can explore different brands and qualities of soft pastels. This variety ensures that both novice and experienced artists can find the right tools that suit their artistic preferences and project requirements.
What Brands of Soft Pastels Are Available at AC Moore?
AC Moore offers a variety of brands when it comes to soft pastels, catering to different skill levels and preferences.
- Sennelier: Renowned for their high-quality pigments and buttery texture, Sennelier soft pastels are favored by professional artists. They provide excellent lightfastness and blendability, making them ideal for creating vibrant and detailed artworks.
- Rembrandt: Rembrandt soft pastels are known for their rich colors and consistent quality. These pastels are made from pure pigments and kaolin clay, offering a smooth application and strong adherence to surfaces, which is perfect for both beginners and experienced artists alike.
- Prismacolor: Prismacolor soft pastels are popular among students and hobbyists due to their affordability and decent quality. These pastels offer a range of vibrant colors and are easy to blend, making them a great choice for those looking to experiment with pastel techniques.
- Faber-Castell: Known for their craftsmanship, Faber-Castell soft pastels are made from high-quality pigments that deliver excellent color payoff. They are favored for their smooth application and are suitable for both detailed work and larger areas, making them versatile for various artistic styles.
- Derwent: Derwent soft pastels are well-regarded for their creamy texture and wide color range. They are highly blendable and provide a soft finish, making them perfect for creating subtle gradients and soft edges in artworks.
Which Soft Pastel Brands Are Most Popular Among Artists?
The most popular soft pastel brands among artists include:
- Rembrandt: Known for their high-quality pigments and smooth application, Rembrandt soft pastels are a favorite among professional artists. They offer a broad range of colors and a consistent texture, which helps in blending and layering techniques.
- Sennelier: This brand is famous for its buttery consistency and vibrant colors, made with pure pigment and natural binders. Sennelier soft pastels are particularly favored for their exceptional lightfastness and the ability to achieve rich, deep hues.
- Schmincke: Renowned for their high pigment concentration, Schmincke soft pastels provide intense colors and a velvety finish. They are crafted in Germany and are known for their softness, making them easy to blend and ideal for detailed work.
- Faber-Castell: Offering a balance of quality and affordability, Faber-Castell soft pastels are popular among both students and professionals. Their pastels are designed for smooth application and come in a variety of sets, making them accessible for artists at all levels.
- Daler Rowney: This brand provides a good entry point for beginners, offering soft pastels that are easy to work with and reasonably priced. Daler Rowney pastels have a decent range of colors and are appreciated for their blendability and ease of use.
What Key Features Differentiate Quality Soft Pastels?
The key features that differentiate quality soft pastels include pigment quality, texture, blendability, and lightfastness.
- Pigment Quality: High-quality soft pastels contain pure, vibrant pigments that provide rich color saturation and a wide range of hues. These pigments ensure that the colors remain true and do not fade over time, allowing for long-lasting artwork.
- Texture: The texture of a soft pastel significantly affects how it applies to the surface. Quality pastels offer a smooth, creamy consistency that allows for easy application and layering, which is essential for achieving varied artistic effects.
- Blendability: The ability to blend colors seamlessly is a hallmark of high-quality soft pastels. Quality pastels allow artists to mix colors easily, creating gradients and soft transitions that enhance the overall depth and richness of the artwork.
- Lightfastness: This characteristic refers to how well a pastel resists fading when exposed to light. Quality soft pastels are formulated with lightfast pigments, ensuring that artworks maintain their vibrancy and do not deteriorate over time when displayed.
- Hardness and Firmness: The hardness of pastels can affect their usability; softer pastels provide more intense color but may break more easily, while firmer pastels are more durable but may require more pressure to apply. Balancing these properties allows artists to select pastels that suit their specific techniques and styles.
What Art Projects Are Best Suited for Soft Pastels?
Some of the best art projects suited for soft pastels include:
- Landscape Painting: Soft pastels are ideal for capturing the vibrant colors and textures found in landscapes. Their blendability allows artists to create smooth transitions between colors, making it easy to depict skies, fields, and natural elements with a soft, dream-like quality.
- Portraits: The rich pigment and ease of layering in soft pastels make them perfect for creating detailed portraits. Artists can build up skin tones and textures effectively, while the medium’s softness allows for subtle shading that enhances the lifelike appearance of the subject.
- Still Life Compositions: Soft pastels excel in portraying the intricate details and colors of still life arrangements. The medium allows for quick application and rich color saturation, making it easier to depict various textures, such as shiny fruits or delicate fabrics.
- Abstract Art: The versatility of soft pastels lends itself well to abstract art, where blending and layering can create unique textures and shapes. Artists can experiment freely with colors and forms, using the medium’s softness to evoke emotions and convey movement within the composition.
- Children’s Art Projects: Soft pastels are often recommended for children’s art due to their vibrant colors and safe, easy-to-handle nature. They allow kids to explore their creativity without the mess associated with other mediums, making it a fun and engaging way to introduce them to art.
How Do Customers Rate the Quality of Soft Pastels at AC Moore?
Customers rate the quality of soft pastels at AC Moore based on several key factors, including pigment quality, blendability, and ease of use.
- High Pigment Concentration: Many customers appreciate the vibrant colors and strong pigmentation of soft pastels available at AC Moore. This high pigment concentration allows for bold applications and rich, saturated colors, making them ideal for various artistic projects.
- Blendability: Users often highlight the ease with which these pastels can be blended. The smooth texture allows artists to create soft gradients and transitions, enhancing the overall quality of their artwork and making them suitable for both beginners and experienced artists alike.
- Durability: Customers frequently comment on the durability of the soft pastels, noting that they hold up well during use and do not easily break. This reliability contributes to a better overall experience, as artists can work without worrying about their materials failing mid-project.
- Variety of Colors: AC Moore offers a wide range of colors, which customers find appealing. This extensive selection allows artists to experiment with different hues and find the perfect shades for their artwork, enhancing creativity and expression.
- Affordability: Many reviews mention the reasonable pricing of soft pastels at AC Moore. Customers appreciate that they can purchase quality art supplies without breaking the bank, making these pastels accessible to a wider audience.
What Expert Tips Should You Consider When Selecting Soft Pastels?
When selecting soft pastels, consider the following expert tips:
- Quality of Pigment: Look for soft pastels that use high-quality pigments for vibrant color payoff and longevity.
- Texture and Consistency: Choose pastels that have a smooth texture for easy blending and layering, which can enhance your artwork.
- Hardness Level: Consider the hardness of the pastels, as softer pastels are great for rich color and blending, while harder pastels are better for fine details.
- Brand Reputation: Research brands known for their quality, as reputable companies often offer better performance and consistency.
- Variety of Colors: Look for sets that provide a wide range of colors, allowing for greater versatility in your artistic expression.
- Ease of Availability: Ensure that the pastels you choose are readily available at local art stores like AC Moore or through reliable online retailers.
- Price Point: Balance your budget with the quality you desire, as investing in higher-quality pastels can yield better results in your artwork.
Quality of Pigment: High-quality pigments provide richer colors and better lightfastness, ensuring that your artwork remains vibrant over time. Cheaper pastels may fade or lose their vibrancy, negatively impacting your finished piece.
Texture and Consistency: A smooth texture allows for effortless application and blending, helping you achieve gradients and soft transitions in your work. Consistency in the texture across different colors ensures a uniform experience while working.
Hardness Level: Soft pastels are known for their ability to create rich and vibrant layers, while harder pastels can be beneficial for fine lines and details. Understanding the hardness can help you choose the right tools for the specific techniques you wish to employ.
Brand Reputation: Established brands often have a history of producing reliable quality, which can save you time and frustration in your artistic journey. Brands like Rembrandt and Sennelier are often recommended for their exceptional performance.
Variety of Colors: A diverse color palette allows artists to explore a wider range of creative possibilities. Sets that include a variety of hues can also help in achieving more realistic representations in landscapes, portraits, and other subjects.
Ease of Availability: Selecting pastels that are accessible at local stores like AC Moore can save you time and shipping costs, making it easier to replenish your supplies when needed. This is especially important for artists who frequently create and need consistent materials.
Price Point: Finding the right balance between quality and affordability is crucial. While higher-end pastels can be more expensive, they may be worth the investment for serious artists who prioritize the longevity and quality of their work.
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