Since 1994 when I first discovered this medium, I have been adding to my collection of pastels.  From a basic starter set, I have constantly been searching for those elusive ‘English’ landscape colours.  Every time I visit an art shop I head straight to the section that displays individual pastels, as excited as any child in a sweet shop!  I have samples from many manufacturers, the important thing for me is always the colour.

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This was my first box quickly filled, each of the trays arranged by colour and tone and although I used it for many years, it is far too heavy to carry to and from workshops and demonstrations so it now remains my ‘store’ cupboard.

 

 

 

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Perhaps my favourite box, this contains a selection of ‘jumbo’ pastels in my most used colours plus a few smaller ones in both the lightest and darkest tones.  The large pastels allow me to apply large areas of colour quickly before I move on to detail.  Rapid results.

 

 

 

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In my studio I use a customised tray on wheels, designed and made by my son.  Again arranged by colours and tonal values, when not in use I can roll it away under my desk.

This small portable lightweight box contains all the colours I require for a demonstration or outdoor work.  Inexpensive and readily available from any DIY store, perfect when starting out.