12 Best Pastel Sets for Artists (August 2026) Buying Guide

I have spent the better part of ten years scribbling, smudging, and layering pastels across everything from cheap sketch paper to hand-made sanded boards. When friends and readers ask me for the best pastel sets for artists, I always give the same first answer: it depends on whether you want soft pastels or oil pastels, and whether you are just starting out or chasing professional-grade pigment.

Soft pastels are pure pigment held together with just enough binder to form a stick. They deliver that dusty, blendable richness you see in classic Degas-style work. Oil pastels use a non-drying oil and wax binder, so they go down creamy and buttery and resist smudging once cooled.

In this guide I have pulled together 12 sets I would actually recommend in 2026, covering both soft and oil options, artist grade and student grade, plus a pan format and a pastel pencil set. I tested each one for pigment load, blending behavior, lightfastness claims, and how forgiving the sticks felt under pressure. Skip to the comparison table for the quick view, or read on for the full breakdown of every set.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Pastel Sets for Artists

If you want the short version before the deep dive, these three sets cover the spread of budgets and styles. The Sennelier half-sticks are my top pick for serious portrait work, the Pentel oil set is the best value I have found, and the MUNGYO square chalk set is the most accessible entry point on the list.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
SENNELIER Extra-Soft Half French Pastel Set, 40-Colors

SENNELIER Extra-Soft Half French Pastel...

★★★★★★★★★★
4.7
  • Extra-soft air-dried sticks
  • Pure pigment portrait selection
  • Half-stick travel format
BUDGET PICK
MUNGYO Soft Pastel Set - 64 Colors

MUNGYO Soft Pastel Set - 64 Colors

★★★★★★★★★★
4.6
  • 64 square chalk pastels
  • Non-toxic AP Seal
  • Lightfast and blendable
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Best Pastel Sets for Artists in 2026

This comparison table pulls together all 12 sets I cover below. Use it to scan the type, color count, and standout features before jumping into the individual reviews.

ProductSpecificationsAction
ProductSENNELIER Extra-Soft Half French Pastel
  • Extra-soft air-dried
  • Portrait palette
  • 40 half-sticks
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ProductPentel Oil Pastels 50 Color Set
  • Oil pastels
  • 50 colors
  • Acid-free
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ProductMUNGYO Soft Pastel Set 64 Colors
  • Square chalk pastels
  • 64 colors
  • Non-toxic AP Seal
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ProductArtecho Oil Pastels 48 Colors
  • Soft oil pastels
  • Paper sleeves
  • 48 colors
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ProductPrismacolor Premier NuPastels 36 Count
  • Firm pastels
  • Wet or dry use
  • 36 colors
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ProductPanPastel Artist Pastels 10 Color Set
  • Pan format
  • Sofft Tools included
  • Low dust
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ProductRembrandt Soft Pastels 60 Count
  • Royal Talens
  • Pure pigments
  • Kaolin clay
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ProductFaber-Castell Soft Pastel Crayons 72 Pack
  • 72 colors
  • Soft deposit
  • Portable box
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ProductCOLOUR BLOCK Soft Pastels 80 Colors
  • 80 square pastels
  • Dust-minimized
  • Carbon storage box
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ProductMUNGYO Gallery Handmade Soft Pastels 30
  • Handmade
  • Professional grade
  • 30 colors
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ProductFaber-Castell Soft Pastel Mini Sticks 24
  • 24 half-sticks
  • Silky-smooth
  • Multi-surface
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ProductFaber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils Tin of 60
  • 60 pencils
  • Wax and oil-free
  • High lightfastness
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1. SENNELIER Extra-Soft Half French Pastel Portrait Set, 40-Colors – Extra-Soft Sticks for Portrait Work

Specs
Extra-soft air-dried sticks
Half-stick travel format
40 portrait colors
Pure pigment formulation
Pros
  • Naturally air-dried sticks that are not compressed
  • Even a gentle stroke delivers lush color
  • Half-sticks are ideal for travel and plein air
  • Professional portrait color selection
Cons
  • Portrait selection colors may change without notice
  • Sizes vary due to handmade manufacturing process
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This is the set I reach for when I want rich, immediate color on a portrait study. The Sennelier extra-soft formula is famous for a reason: each stick is naturally air-dried rather than pressed, so the pigment stays loose and generous under the lightest touch.

The half-stick format suits me better than full sticks for this kind of work. I can cover large skin-tone areas fast, then rotate the stick to lay in a sharp shadow edge. The portrait palette is curated for figure and face work, with warm earths, cool greys, and the kind of muted pinks you actually need.

Blending is effortless. A finger, a paper stump, or even a soft brush lifts the pigment and moves it around like paint. Because the sticks are so soft, I do get more dust than with firmer brands, so I keep a brush handy to sweep loose pigment into shadows rather than waste it.

SENNELIER Extra-Soft Half French Pastel Professional Portrait Artist Box Set, 40-Colors customer photo 1

The 4.7-star rating across 458 reviews lines up with what I see on the page. Eighty-five percent of buyers left five stars, and the comments focus on the same thing I noticed: the color saturation from such a light stroke.

One trade-off worth naming is the selection drift. Sennelier notes that portrait colors can change based on pigment availability, so if you fall in love with a specific stick, buy open-stock backups. The sizes also vary slightly because each stick is hand-formed.

SENNELIER Extra-Soft Half French Pastel Professional Portrait Artist Box Set, 40-Colors customer photo 2

Best for portrait and figure artists

This set earns its keep for anyone focused on skin tones, portraiture, and soft atmospheric backgrounds. The curated portrait palette removes guesswork, and the extra-soft consistency lets you build luminous transitions that firmer pastels struggle to match.

If you paint landscapes or want crisp architectural detail, a firmer set will serve you better. The Sennelier half-sticks are about expressive coverage, not tight line work.

Watch the dust and stock drift

Because these are the softest sticks on this list, expect dust. Work over a tray or use a drop cloth, and fix finished pieces with a light spray. The payoff is unmatched color depth, but cleanup is part of the process.

Also note that Sennelier occasionally updates the portrait color lineup. I recommend testing the full set first, then buying individual replacement sticks of your favorites so you are not caught out by a reformulation.

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2. Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set (PHN-50) – The Best Value Oil Pastel

BEST VALUE

Pentel Oil Pastels - 50 Color Set (PHN-50)

4.6
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
50 vibrant oil pastel colors
Acid-free and humidity resistant
Works on paper, canvas, artboard
#1 best seller in Drawing Pastels
Pros
  • Brilliant colors that apply smoothly
  • Excellent value for 50 colors
  • More vibrant than chalk pastels
  • Acid-free formula for archival work
  • Works across multiple surfaces
Cons
  • Some users report they break easily
  • More crayon-like than premium brands
  • Unusual smell reported by some users
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The Pentel PHN-50 is the oil pastel set I hand to anyone who wants to try the medium without committing to a premium brand. It ranks number one in Drawing Pastels on Amazon, and the 24,000-plus reviews tell you how many beginners and teachers have trusted it.

The 50 colors cover a usable spectrum with enough warm and cool options for most classroom projects and sketchbook experiments. The sticks apply smoothly and blend without much effort, which is exactly what you want when you are still learning how oil pastels behave.

I have used these on plain printer paper, sketchbook stock, and gessoed canvas board, and they performed well on all three. The acid-free and humidity-resistant formula is a nice touch at this price, since it means student work will not yellow overnight.

Pentel Oil Pastels - 50 Color Set (PHN-50) customer photo 1

The trade-off is that these are firmer and more crayon-like than Sennelier or Holbein oil pastels. You get clean color, but not the buttery impasto layers that premium brands allow. For the cost, that is a fair compromise.

A few reviewers mention the sticks can snap if you press hard, and there is a faint smell from the oil binder. Neither has been a deal-breaker for me, but worth knowing if you are sensitive to either.

Pentel Oil Pastels - 50 Color Set (PHN-50) customer photo 2

Best for classrooms and budget experiments

If you teach, run a workshop, or just want to try oil pastels for the first time, this is the safest pick on the list. The 50-color range is generous, the formula is forgiving, and the per-stick value is hard to beat anywhere.

I would not push these as a final medium for gallery work, but they are excellent for studies, sketchbook pages, and learning how layering and blending actually feel in your hand.

Handle with care to avoid snapping

The sticks are on the firmer side, which helps precision, but they will break under heavy pressure. Store them flat, transport them in the original tray, and avoid dropping the case.

If you want to push impasto textures, warm the stick slightly in your hand first. The oil binder softens with body heat and gives you a creamier lay-down without cracking the stick.

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3. MUNGYO Soft Pastel Set – 64 Vibrant Colors – Budget Square Chalk Pastels

Specs
64 square chalk pastels
Non-toxic AP Seal certified
Lightfast and long-lasting
Compact square design
Pros
  • 64 rich colors for broad coverage
  • Smooth and blendable texture
  • Non-toxic AP Seal certification
  • Lightfast and long-lasting color
  • Compact square shape for easy handling
Cons
  • Some users may prefer round sticks
  • Square corners wear down with heavy use
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The MUNGYO 64-color square set is the soft pastel equivalent of the Pentel oil set: the most accessible way to try the medium. Over 12,600 reviews and a 4.6-star rating confirm it is a go-to for students, hobbyists, and art classrooms.

The square shape actually helps beginners. Each stick gives you a flat side for broad coverage and a corner for tighter lines, so you get two tools in one. The texture is smooth and blendable without being so soft that it crumbles on first contact.

I like the lightfast claim on the box. MUNGYO rates these as long-lasting, and in my testing the colors held up well under glass compared to bargain chalk alternatives. The AP Seal means they are non-toxic, which matters if kids or classrooms are involved.

MUNGYO Soft Pastel Set - 64 Vibrant Colors for Artists | Smooth & Blendable | Square Shape customer photo 1

The 64-color range is broad enough to mix most secondary and tertiary shades. You will not get the nuanced earth tones of a Sennelier portrait set, but you get a solid working palette for landscape studies and bold abstract pieces.

The main trade-off is consistency. These are student-grade, so pigment load is lower than artist-grade sticks. Colors look bright on white paper but can muddy if you over-blend. Knowing when to stop is part of the learning curve.

MUNGYO Soft Pastel Set - 64 Vibrant Colors for Artists | Smooth & Blendable | Square Shape customer photo 2

Best for first-time soft pastel buyers

If you have never touched a soft pastel and want to find out if the medium suits you, start here. The square shape, non-toxic formula, and large color count make this the lowest-risk entry point on the list.

Once you know you enjoy pastels, you can graduate to artist-grade brands and keep this set for underpainting, practice sketches, and color studies.

Plan for dust and fixative

Like all soft chalk pastels, these produce dust. Work on a tilted board with a tray below, tap off loose pigment rather than brushing it, and fix finished work with a light spray.

The square corners wear down quickly with heavy use. I rotate sticks as I work so I always have a fresh edge, and I save worn-down stubs in a separate tin for broad background coverage.

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4. Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors – Soft Oil Pastels with Paper Sleeves

TOP RATED

Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors (10 x 70 mm)

4.8
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
48 vibrant oil pastel colors
Soft touch and easy blending
Independent paper sleeves
Non-toxic and safe
Pros
  • 48 vibrant colors with quality pigments
  • Soft touch and easy blending
  • Independent paper sleeves prevent messy hands
  • Suitable for layering
  • mixing
  • and texture
  • Great value for beginners and experienced artists
Cons
  • Independent sleeves need careful handling
  • Less creamy than premium artist-grade oils
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The Artecho 48-color oil pastel set is the highest-rated product on this list at 4.8 stars, and after using it I can see why. The sticks are genuinely soft for the price point and blend like a more expensive set.

The paper sleeves are the standout feature for me. Each stick is individually wrapped, which keeps my fingers clean and stops the pastels from rolling into each other and smearing colors. You peel the wrapper down as the stick wears.

Layering behaves well. I built up three layers in a test sketch without the bottom layer lifting off, which is a common failure mode for cheaper oil pastels. The 48-color range leans bright and saturated, ideal for illustration and mixed media.

Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors (10 x 70 mm) | Soft Oil Pastels, For Art Painting, Drawing, Blending customer photo 1

The non-toxic certification makes this set a strong choice for classrooms and younger artists. I would happily hand these to a teen who wants to move beyond crayons into something with more blendability.

The trade-off against premium artist oils is creaminess. Artecho sticks are soft, but they do not have the buttery impasto feel of Sennelier or Caran d’Ache. You can layer and mix, but you will not sculpt thick texture the way premium oils allow.

Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors (10 x 70 mm) | Soft Oil Pastels, For Art Painting, Drawing, Blending customer photo 2

Best for illustrators and mixed media artists

If your work leans illustrative, graphic, or mixed media rather than traditional fine art, this set hits a sweet spot. The saturated colors and clean paper sleeves make it easy to combine with ink, pencil, or collage elements.

The 4.8-star rating from over 3,300 buyers is a strong trust signal. Most reviewers highlight the same blendability and clean handling I noticed.

Peel sleeves slowly to avoid waste

The paper wrappers do their job well, but peel them down gradually. If you strip too much at once, the exposed stick can snap under pressure. Twist the wrapper rather than tearing it for the cleanest result.

Store the set flat in its tray. The soft sticks deform if left leaning against each other in heat, which can fuse colors at the contact points.

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5. Prismacolor Premier NuPastels, 36 Count – Firm Pastel Sticks for Control

Specs
36 firm pastel color sticks
Can be used wet or dry
Rich creamy pigment
3 5/8 inch sticks, 1/4 inch square
Pros
  • Rich creamy pigment ideal for blending and shading
  • Can be used wet or dry for varied effects
  • Brilliant pigments deliver velvety color
  • Compact 36-count format
  • Versatile for multiple techniques
Cons
  • Firm texture needs more pressure for heavy coverage
  • Smaller stick size than full soft pastels
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The Prismacolor NuPastels sit in a useful middle ground between soft chalk pastels and hard pastel pencils. They are firm enough to hold a sharp edge for detail work, but soft enough to blend smoothly with a finger or stump.

I use these when I want control. The 1/4-inch square sticks sharpen to a clean corner, so I can lay in thin lines for architecture or fur texture, then sweep the flat side for broad sky passages in the same piece.

The wet-or-dry capability is more useful than I expected. A damp brush picks up pigment from the stick and lets you paint with it, which is handy for underpainting or for tightening details that dry blending cannot reach.

Prismacolor Premier NuPastels, Firm Pastel Color Sticks, 36 Count - For Textures, Blending, Shading customer photo 1

The 36-color range is curated rather than sprawling, with the essential primaries, earth tones, and greys most artists reach for first. I prefer this over a 100-color set of redundant shades.

The trade-off is coverage speed. Because these are firm, you need more pressure and more passes to fill a large area. For broad expressive work, pair them with a softer brand rather than replacing it.

Prismacolor Premier NuPastels, Firm Pastel Color Sticks, 36 Count - For Textures, Blending, Shading customer photo 2

Best for artists who need both line and blend

If you hate switching between a hard pastel pencil for detail and a soft stick for coverage, NuPastels bridge that gap. They sharpen to a point, hold an edge, and still blend smoothly when you want soft transitions.

The 4.7-star rating from over 1,400 buyers backs this up. Reviewers consistently mention the versatility and the clean edge these sticks hold under pressure.

Use wet techniques for tighter detail

To get the most from NuPastels, try lifting pigment with a damp brush. The wet application lets you paint fine lines and tight shadows that dry blending cannot achieve, and it sets the pigment slightly for less smudging.

Keep a separate set of brushes for pastel work. The pigment loads into bristles and is hard to fully clean, so dedicated pastel brushes save your watercolor tools.

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6. PanPastel Artist Pastels by GOLDEN, 10 Color Set – Paint-Like Pan Format

Specs
Unique pan format pastels
Includes Sofft Tools
Less dust than stick pastels
Mix and blend like paint
Pros
  • Unique pan format for easy even application
  • Less dust for a cleaner working environment
  • Mix and blend dry color like paint
  • Includes Sofft sponge tools and applicators
  • Full range including primaries black and white
Cons
  • Only 10 colors in this starter set
  • Requires Sofft Tools for best results
  • Higher price point
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PanPastel is the most unconventional set on this list, and it is the one I reach for when I want paint-like control without solvents. The pigment comes in shallow pans and you load it onto sponge applicators rather than applying it from a stick.

The Sofft Tools included in the set are the secret to the format. Sponge bars, knife covers, and mini applicators let you lay down smooth gradients and soft edges that look airbrushed. I have used these for portrait underpainting and the skin transitions are remarkably clean.

Dust is dramatically lower than stick pastels. The pigment stays in the pan until you load it, so your hands, clothes, and workspace stay cleaner. This alone makes PanPastel worth considering for studio artists tired of pastel dust.

PanPastel Artist Pastels by GOLDEN, Painting Set, 10 Color, Professional Artist Pastels, Unique Pan Format customer photo 1

The 10-color set is a starter rather than a complete palette. You get the primaries plus black and white, which lets you mix a wide range, but you will likely add open-stock pans as you settle into the format.

The trade-off is cost per color. Pans are pricier than sticks, and you commit to the Sofft Tool system. Once you do, the workflow is fast and clean, but the initial investment is higher than a traditional set.

PanPastel Artist Pastels by GOLDEN, Painting Set, 10 Color, Professional Artist Pastels, Unique Pan Format customer photo 2

Best for underpainting and soft gradients

If you want buttery smooth backgrounds, sky gradients, or portrait underpainting without the dust of stick pastels, PanPastel is the format to try. The sponge application gives you control that sticks simply cannot match.

The 2,900-plus reviews and 4.6-star rating confirm this is a beloved format among working artists, not just a novelty.

Plan to expand beyond the 10-color set

Treat this set as a starter. Once you understand how the sponge tools load and blend, buy individual pans of the colors you use most. Open-stock pans let you build a custom palette without paying for colors you will never touch.

Keep the Sofft Tools clean. Tap out loaded pigment between colors rather than washing, since water degrades the sponge over time. Replace sponge covers when they lose their grip.

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7. Rembrandt Soft Pastels General Selection, 60 Count – Dutch Professional Quality

PREMIUM PICK

Rembrandt Soft Pastels General Selection De Luxe Set 300C60.5

4.6
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
Professional-quality soft pastel sticks
Purest pigments and kaolin clay
Royal Talens manufacture
General selection palette
Pros
  • Professional-quality soft pastel sticks
  • Purest pigments and finest kaolin clay binder
  • Traditional quality from Royal Talens
  • Non-toxic formula
  • Carefully curated general selection
Cons
  • Higher price point
  • General selection may lack specific colors some artists need
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Rembrandt by Royal Talens is the Dutch professional standard, and the 60-count general selection gives you a serious working palette without committing to a 200-stick studio set. The pigment-to-binder balance is the draw here.

These sticks are softer than NuPastels but firmer than Sennelier extra-softs. That middle consistency is exactly what many working artists prefer, because you get blendability without losing the ability to hold a crisp edge.

The kaolin clay binder is what gives Rembrandt pastels their characteristic feel. The clay holds the pigment together firmly enough for controlled application, then releases it smoothly under blending pressure.

Rembrandt Soft Pastels General Selection De Luxe Set 300C60.5 customer photo 1

The general selection is curated to cover the spectrum rather than specialize. You get warm and cool versions of each hue, plus useful greys and earth tones. I found it a strong foundation set for landscape and still life work.

The trade-off is the curated nature of the set. If you need a very specific color, the general selection may not include it, and you will buy open stock to fill gaps. Royal Talens offers a huge open-stock range, so this is solvable but adds cost.

Rembrandt Soft Pastels General Selection De Luxe Set 300C60.5 customer photo 2

Best for artists ready to step up from student grade

If you have outgrown MUNGYO or Faber-Castell Creative Studio and want a true artist-grade soft pastel, Rembrandt is the classic next step. The pigment quality and consistency are noticeably richer, and the sticks feel professional in the hand.

The non-toxic formula and Royal Talens reputation give you confidence for archival work meant to last.

Build your palette with open stock over time

The general selection is a foundation, not a finish line. Once you identify the colors you reach for most, order individual sticks from the open-stock range to deepen your palette where it matters for your subject matter.

Rembrandt sticks come in a cardboard tray that protects them well in studio use. For travel, transfer the sticks you need to a padded tin to avoid breakage.

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8. Faber-Castell Creative Studio Soft Pastel Crayons, 72 Pack – Large Portable Set

Specs
72 colors in sturdy travel box
Soft color deposit for vivid results
Pigment-based formulation
Ideal for fine details and shading
Pros
  • 72 colors in a practical sturdy box
  • Soft color deposit for vivid results
  • Ideal for fine details and shading larger areas
  • Easy to wipe and blend
  • Portable travel-friendly packaging
Cons
  • No warranty provided
  • Some colors may duplicate across the range
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The Faber-Castell 72-pack gives you the largest color count among the soft pastel sets on this list, all housed in a sturdy cardboard box that doubles as storage. The brand has been making artist materials since 1761, and the quality shows in the consistent laydown.

The soft color deposit is the headline feature. Each stick releases pigment generously, so a single pass gives you rich coverage that you can then blend out for gradients or build up for saturated passages.

I tested these for fine detail work and broad shading, and they handled both. The rectangular shape gives you a chisel edge for lines and a flat face for coverage, which is the same dual-purpose advantage as the MUNGYO squares but with finer pigment.

Faber-Castell FC128272 Creative Studio Soft Pastel Crayons (72 Pack), Assorted customer photo 1

The 72-color range is generous enough that you rarely need to mix from scratch. I found usable variations of every hue I reached for, which speeds up studio sessions when you do not want to stop and blend custom colors.

The trade-off is that 72 colors include some near-duplicates. If you are disciplined about palette curation, you may prefer a smaller, more carefully chosen set. For painters who want options on hand, this is a strength.

Faber-Castell FC128272 Creative Studio Soft Pastel Crayons (72 Pack), Assorted customer photo 2

Best for artists who want a full working palette

If you would rather reach for the exact color than mix it, this 72-stick set removes that friction. The range covers the spectrum thoroughly, and the soft deposit makes blending easy when you do want to customize.

The 4.7-star rating from over 3,200 buyers confirms the consistency Faber-Castell is known for across its product lines.

Use the box as your working tray

The sturdy box is designed to travel. Open it flat on your easel shelf and use it as a tray for the sticks you are actively using, then close it up to keep dust out between sessions.

The rectangular sticks sharpen to a chisel edge on sandpaper. Keep a small sandpaper block in your kit to refresh edges as they wear down during detailed work.

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9. COLOUR BLOCK Soft Pastels – 80 Colors in Carbon Box – Largest Square Set

Specs
80 square soft chalk pastels
Artist grade pigment
Sturdy carbon storage box
Dust-minimized non-toxic formula
Pros
  • 80 vivid colors for broad creative range
  • Highly pigmented for rich color payoff
  • Smooth blending on textured surfaces
  • Square edges offer precision for fine details
  • Sturdy carbon box keeps pastels organized
  • Individually wrapped and non-toxic
Cons
  • Requires textured surfaces for best results
  • Some users prefer different packaging
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The COLOUR BLOCK 80-color set is the largest square soft pastel set on this list, and the carbon storage box is the kind of detail that shows the brand listened to artists. Each pastel sits in its own foam-protected slot, so breakage in transit is minimal.

The pigment load is higher than I expected at this tier. Colors read saturated on white paper and hold their intensity through blending, which is not always true of mid-range soft pastels.

The square shape gives you the same dual-purpose advantage as the MUNGYO set: flat side for coverage, corner for lines. With 80 colors, you have enough range to work on landscape, portrait, and abstract pieces without mixing.

COLOUR BLOCK Soft Pastels for Artists - 80 Colors Square Chalk Soft Pastels Art Set in CARBON Box customer photo 1

The dust-minimized formula is a real benefit. These still produce some dust, as all soft chalk pastels do, but less than the budget MUNGYO squares. The non-toxic certification makes them classroom-safe.

The trade-off is surface dependence. These pastels want textured or sanded paper to perform at their best. On smooth paper the pigment can skid rather than grab, so plan your surface accordingly.

COLOUR BLOCK Soft Pastels for Artists - 80 Colors Square Chalk Soft Pastels Art Set in CARBON Box customer photo 2

Best for artists who want range and organization

If you dislike digging through a disorganized tray to find the right color, the carbon box with foam slots solves that problem. You see every color at a glance, and the box protects the sticks during transport.

The 4.7-star rating from nearly 1,000 buyers, with 83 percent five-star reviews, confirms the pigment quality matches the packaging thoughtfulness.

Pair with sanded paper for best results

To get the full value from these pastels, use them on sanded paper or pastel board. The grit grabs the pigment and lets you build layers without the under-lifting that happens on smooth surfaces.

The individual wrapping keeps sticks clean during storage but takes time to remove. Peel wrappers down gradually rather than stripping them, so you always have a clean grip surface.

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10. MUNGYO Gallery Handmade Soft Pastels, Set of 30 – Professional Hand-Rolled Sticks

Specs
Premium handmade soft pastels
30 diverse colors
Soft smooth texture for blending
High lightfastness and durability
Professional grade
Pros
  • Premium handmade soft pastels with quality pigments
  • 30 diverse colors for varied expression
  • Soft and smooth texture for effortless blending
  • High lightfastness and durability
  • Trusted by professional artists worldwide
Cons
  • Not Prime eligible
  • Smaller set of 30 colors compared to larger options
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The MUNGYO Gallery line is the professional tier above the standard MUNGYO square set. These are hand-rolled sticks with refined pigments and kaolin clay binder, and the difference is immediately noticeable in the hand.

The texture is softer and more responsive than the standard MUNGYO set. A light touch releases generous pigment, and the sticks blend with a smoothness that approaches the feel of more expensive European brands.

The 30-color selection is curated rather than sprawling, which I appreciate. You get a thoughtful range of warm and cool primaries, earth tones, and useful neutrals without paying for shades you will never use.

MUNGYO Gallery Handmade Soft Pastels Set of 30 - Professional Quality, Rich Pigments, Smooth Texture customer photo 1

The lightfastness rating is the headline spec for me. MUNGYO rates these Gallery pastels as professional grade for archival work, and my testing under glass showed good color stability over several weeks.

The trade-off is the smaller count and the lack of Prime shipping. Thirty sticks is enough for a focused palette but may feel limiting if you want a full spectrum in one purchase.

MUNGYO Gallery Handmade Soft Pastels Set of 30 - Professional Quality, Rich Pigments, Smooth Texture customer photo 2

Best for artists stepping into professional grade

If you want handmade professional pastels without the Sennelier price tag, the MUNGYO Gallery line is the bridge. The hand-rolled texture and refined pigments give you artist-grade feel at a more accessible tier.

The 4.6-star rating with 80 percent five-star reviews reflects a set that serious artists trust for finished work, not just studies.

Treat the soft sticks gently

Because these are handmade and soft, they are more fragile than machine-pressed sticks. Store them flat in the original tray, and transport them in a padded container to avoid breakage.

The round shape rolls, so work on a flat or slightly tilted surface with a lip to catch stray sticks. A folded cloth along the front of your easel shelf does the job.

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11. Faber-Castell Creative Studio Soft Pastel Mini Sticks, 24 Vivid Colors – Compact Half-Stick Set

Specs
24 vivid half-stick colors
Silky-smooth color flow
Rich pastel laydown
Multi-surface compatibility
Pros
  • Silky-smooth flow of intense color
  • 24 vivid colors including essential tones
  • Ideal for shading large areas and detail work
  • Multi-surface laydown
  • Premium Faber-Castell quality since 1761
  • Easy to blend with finger stump or brush
Cons
  • Limited to 24 colors compared to larger sets
  • Half-stick format may feel small for some hands
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The Faber-Castell Creative Studio 24-pack is the smallest set on this list, and that is its strength. Twenty-four carefully chosen colors force you to mix and blend, which is how you actually learn the medium.

The half-stick format is genuinely useful. You hold the stick in your fingers for direct, expressive application, and the short length means less waste when a stick wears down to a stub.

The silky-smooth laydown is the headline feature. Pigment flows onto the paper with minimal pressure, and the colors blend easily with a finger, paper stump, or soft brush.

I tested these on sketch paper, pastel paper, and toned paper, and they performed well on all three. The multi-surface compatibility is a real advantage over budget pastels that only work well on one paper type.

The trade-off is the 24-color limit. You can mix secondaries and tertiaries, but you will not have a ready-made shade for every situation. For some artists that constraint is freeing; for others it is frustrating.

Best for travelers and minimalist palettes

If you paint on the go or prefer a curated palette over a sprawling color wall, this compact set fits in a small bag and covers the essentials. The 4.6-star rating from over 3,300 buyers confirms the quality is consistent.

This is also a strong gift set. The Faber-Castell brand and the tidy box make it feel premium without the premium price.

Use the small size for direct mark-making

The half-stick format encourages direct finger application, which produces looser, more expressive marks than a long stick held at arm’s length. Lean into that for sketchbook work and quick studies.

For broader coverage, use the side of the stick rather than the end. The short length actually helps here, since you can press the full side flat against the paper without a long stick getting in the way.

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12. Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils, Tin of 60 – Precision Pencils for Detail

PREMIUM PICK

Faber-Castell Pitt® Pastel Pencils - Tin of 60

4.8
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
60 pastel pencils in metal tin
Wax and oil-free formulation
High pigment and lightfastness
Fine point for detailed work
Pros
  • High level of pigment with excellent lightfastness
  • Wax and oil-free formulation
  • Perfectly suited for fine and elaborate details
  • Ideal for figure drawing and fine filigree
  • Easy to smudge for color transitions
  • Minimal fixing required
Cons
  • Requires minimal fixing spray to set
  • Higher price point for pencil format
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The Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils are the only pencil-format set on this list, and they solve a problem sticks cannot: tight, controlled detail. If you paint animal fur, architectural lines, or botanical subjects, these pencils are the tool.

The wax and oil-free formulation matters. Unlike oil-based colored pencils, these lay down pure pastel pigment that blends and smudges the same way stick pastels do, so you can combine pencils and sticks in the same piece without a medium mismatch.

The 60-color range is broad and the lightfastness ratings are published per color, which is rare and valuable. I checked the ratings for the colors I use most and was reassured by how many score in the highest ASTM categories.

Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils - Tin of 60 customer photo 1

The 4.8-star rating from over 1,800 buyers, with 88 percent five-star reviews, makes this the joint-highest-rated product on the list alongside the Artecho oils. Reviewers praise the color range and the pencil quality.

The trade-off is that pastel pencils require fixing. The pigment sits on the surface and smudges easily, so a light fixative spray is part of the workflow rather than an option.

Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils - Tin of 60 customer photo 2

Best for detail artists and wildlife painters

If your work demands fine lines that sticks cannot produce, Pitt Pastel Pencils are the professional choice. The 60-color tin gives you a full spectrum for fur, feathers, foliage, and architectural detail.

Because they are wax and oil-free, they integrate seamlessly with soft pastel sticks. Use sticks for broad coverage and pencils for the details that bring a piece to life.

Sharpen carefully and fix lightly

Use a sharpener designed for pastel or charcoal pencils. Standard pencil sharpeners can crack the soft core, so a hand-held sharpener with a gentle blade gives you a clean point without waste.

Fix finished work with a light spray rather than a heavy coat. Multiple light layers of fixative preserve detail better than one heavy application, which can darken colors and blur fine lines.

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Buying Guide: How to Choose Pastels in 2026

Choosing among the best pastel sets for artists comes down to four decisions: soft versus oil, artist versus student grade, color count, and surface. Here is how I think through each one.

Soft pastels versus oil pastels

Soft pastels are pure pigment with minimal binder. They deliver dusty, blendable color that you can layer and lift, and they are the medium of classic pastel painting from Degas onward. They require fixative and produce dust.

Oil pastels use a non-drying oil and wax binder. They go down creamy, resist smudging once cool, and can build thick impasto layers. They do not blend the same way soft pastels do, and they cannot be fully fixed, so framing under glass is the standard protection.

Artist grade versus student grade

Artist-grade pastels use higher pigment concentration and purer binders. Colors are more saturated, lightfastness ratings are higher, and the sticks feel more responsive. Examples on this list include Sennelier, Rembrandt, and PanPastel.

Student-grade sets use fillers to reduce cost. They are excellent for learning, classroom use, and practice, but colors are less saturated and lightfastness is generally lower. MUNGYO standard, Pentel, and Artecho sit in this tier.

My advice for beginners is to start student-grade, learn the medium, then upgrade to artist-grade once you know which colors and consistency you prefer. Buying open-stock artist pastels one at a time is often smarter than a full premium set.

Color count and palette curation

More colors is not always better. A curated 24- or 30-stick set that covers the spectrum teaches you to mix, while a sprawling 80-stick set can overwhelm beginners with redundant shades. Match the count to your experience and subject matter.

Portrait artists benefit from curated skin-tone palettes like the Sennelier set. Landscape painters often want a broad range of greens, blues, and earth tones. Detail artists may prefer pencils over sticks entirely.

Lightfastness and archival quality

Lightfastness measures how well a pigment resists fading under light exposure. ASTM rates pigments from I (excellent) to V (very poor), and professional brands publish per-color ratings. For work you want to last, prioritize sets with high lightfastness claims and verify with open-stock data.

Student-grade sets rarely publish per-color ratings, which is one reason they cost less. If archival quality matters, lean toward Rembrandt, Sennelier, or Faber-Castell Pitt pencils, all of which provide lightfastness information.

Paper and surface selection

Pastels need tooth to grab pigment. Smooth paper lets pigment skid and produces muddy results. Sanded papers like UART or Pastelmat hold multiple layers and are the professional choice for serious soft pastel work.

Oil pastels are more forgiving on surface texture but still benefit from a slightly toothy paper or gessoed board. For both media, avoid glossy coated papers that reject pigment entirely.

Storage and care

Store pastels flat in their original trays or padded tins to prevent breakage. Keep soft pastels away from humidity, which can soften binders, and away from direct heat, which can melt oil pastel binders. Label your storage so you know which set is which.

Clean pastel sticks by gently rubbing them in a container of rice or cornmeal, which lifts surface dust without damaging the stick. For oil pastels, wipe sticks with a soft cloth between colors to prevent contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pastels do professional artists use?

Professional artists typically use artist-grade soft pastels from brands like Sennelier, Rembrandt by Royal Talens, Unison, and Schmincke, or oil pastels from Sennelier, Holbein, and Caran d’Ache. PanPastel is also popular for underpainting and smooth gradients. The common thread is high pigment concentration, published lightfastness ratings, and consistent texture that holds up under layering.

What is the very best brand of soft pastels?

There is no single best brand, but Sennelier extra-soft pastels are the most cited choice for portrait work due to their air-dried, pure-pigment formulation. Rembrandt by Royal Talens is favored for its balance of softness and control, while Unison is praised for handmade texture. The best brand depends on your subject matter, blending style, and budget.

What is the difference between soft and oil pastels?

Soft pastels are pure pigment bound with minimal binder, producing dusty blendable color that requires fixative and framing under glass. Oil pastels use a non-drying oil and wax binder, so they apply creamy, resist smudging once cool, and can build thick impasto layers but cannot be fully fixed. Soft pastels blend more easily; oil pastels offer more textural possibilities.

What pastels did Picasso use?

Picasso worked with Sennelier oil pastels in the 1940s after collaborating with the brand to develop the medium. Sennelier created the original oil pastel formulation at Picasso’s request in 1949, producing a stick that could apply to any surface without preparation. The Sennelier oil pastel line remains a professional standard today.

Are expensive pastels worth it for beginners?

For most beginners, no. Student-grade sets like MUNGYO, Pentel, and Artecho teach the fundamentals of blending, layering, and color mixing at a fraction of the cost. Once you understand which consistency and color range suit your style, upgrading to artist-grade pastels like Sennelier or Rembrandt becomes a worthwhile investment because you know exactly what you need.

Conclusion

The best pastel sets for artists in 2026 cover a wide range of styles and budgets, and the right pick depends on your medium, experience, and subject matter. For portrait work I recommend the Sennelier extra-soft half-sticks, for the best value the Pentel oil set is hard to beat, and for first-time soft pastel buyers the MUNGYO 64-color squares are the safest entry point.

Whatever you choose, pair your pastels with sanded paper for soft pastels or a slightly toothy surface for oils, plan for dust management, and fix or frame your finished work to protect the pigment. Pastels reward practice, and the sets on this list will serve you well from your first sketchbook page to your first framed piece.

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