Cretacolor hard pastels have been recognized by artists all over the world for their brilliant colors and high pigmentation. Their square shape lends itself well to painting both large surfaces and small details.

They are characterized by especially soft, oil-free strokes. All color shades are mixable, wipeable, and soluble. A fixative spray coat is recommended when hard pastels are applied to most paper surfaces.

The complete range of 72 colors includes Cretacolor's brown and gray chalks in 12 shades —browns, cool and warm grays, white, and black.These expressive art materials have traditionally been appreciated for the variety of shades they can createin working with the other colors. They are the same colors and pigments available in Cretacolor Fine Art Pastel Pencils.

Mixing hard pastels, or smudging or combining them with brown and gray chalks, can create special color effects. Experiment with water and different paper surfaces.

Hard pastels are much less dusty than soft pastels. Square pastels are especially easy to handle and store. Individual sticks measure 2¾" long by ¼" square (70 mm × 6 mm).

Gift Idea —Boxed sets of Pastel Carré Sticks make great gifts.

Minimum Order —Please order individual pastels (open stock) in a minimum of 6, so that we can efficiently package and ship your order.Your selection may be assorted to meet this requirement.