We'll take you on an in-depth exploration of oil-based pencils, the perfect tools for your next creative project. Whether you're an experienced artist looking to add colour to your sketch or artwork or a true beginner eager to learn drawing and colouring, these pencils offer a range of possibilities to bring your imagination to life.

What exactly are oil-based pencils?

Oil-based pencils are a type of drawing and colouring supply consisting of pigments mixed with an oil-based binder, such as beeswax or mineral oils. Compared to their water-based counterparts (watercolour pencils), oil-based pencils provide richer colour saturation and a smoother texture. They are ideal for detailed work and creating vibrant, intense colours in your artwork. 

The benefits of using oil-based pencils

There are several benefits to the use of oil-based pencils. We’ve listed these here:

• Intense colours: Thanks to their high concentration of pigments, oil-based pencils offer vibrant and deep colours that remain beautiful for extended periods.
• Easy to blend: Due to their soft texture, oil-based pencils blend exceptionally well, allowing for a wide range of shades and transitions. Learn more blending tips for coloured pencils here.
• Suitable on various surfaces: Whether working on paper, canvas, or wood, oil-based pencils adhere well to different surfaces and provide a durable finish.
• Longer lifespan: Due to their oil base, oil-based pencils are less prone to breakage than their water-based counterparts, resulting in a longer lifespan and more durable finish.
• Precision and control: The softness of oil-based pencils makes them ideal for detailed work, enabling artists to create precise lines and fine details with optimal control.

Maintenance and usage tips

Discover our suggestions for maximising the use of your oil-based pencils:

• Effective colour blending

Experiment with various techniques for blending colours, such as layering, blending, and cross-hatching, to create unique shades and effects. Use a colourless blender pencil or a blending stump for smooth transitions in your artwork.

• Protection of your work

Use a fixative spray to protect your finished artwork from fading and smudging and prolong the colours' longevity.

• Surface selection

Choose a suitable surface for your project, depending on the desired texture and appearance. Experiment with surfaces like smooth paper, rough watercolour paper, or textured canvas.

Inspiration for your next project

Oil-based pencils lend themselves to a wide range of creative projects, from intricate illustrations to vibrant drawings. Here are three inspiring examples of what you can create:

1. Realistic portraits

Use oil-based pencils to create stunningly realistic portraits. The blendability of the colours allows you to build subtle skin tones and capture the nuances of light and shadow. The softness of the pencils enables you to capture the finest details of facial expressions, bringing your portraits to life on paper.

2. Lively nature scenes

Bring the beauty of nature to life with oil-based pencils. The intense colours allow you to create lush landscapes and vibrant flora and fauna. The pencil’s versatility will enable you to capture both realistic details and expressive impressions of nature, providing endless creative possibilities. 

3. Detailed illustrations

Use oil-based pencils to create detailed illustrations that capture the imagination. Whether you want to create an imaginative design or a detailed depiction of everyday objects, oil-based pencils provide the precision and control needed to bring all your ideas to life. With rich colours and a soft texture, you can perfect every line and detail.

Be inspired by the beautiful colours of oil-based pencils and discover the endless possibilities for your next artistic adventure. Whether you're a professional artist or just looking for a creative outlet, oil-based pencils offer the perfect blend of colour, precision, and expression for all your artistic needs. So, let’s get started and let your imagination run wild!

For more inspiration, check out our blogs on:

• Coloured pencils for adults
• Graphite pencils
• Watercolour pencils
• Drawing on black paper