Easy Blending Oil Pastels with Baby Oil, Alcohol Plus More

ByJoseph Colella Posted on Last Updated on

Have you ever tried blending oil pastels with baby oil or other liquids such as alcohol? It might seem like the two don’t go together at first, but they do!

Baby oil, a type of mineral oil, is a versatile tool for blending oil pastels, resulting in a smooth and even finish.

To effectively blend oil pastels using baby oil, follow these steps:

  1. Application: Dab a small amount of baby oil onto a cotton ball or swab.
  2. Blending: Gently blend the oil on the surface where the oil pastels are applied.
  3. Smoothing: Use the oil to seamlessly merge colors, achieving a uniform appearance.
  4. Control: Manipulate the direction of blending to suit your artistic vision.

This blending method is particularly effective for areas where oil pastels are applied thickly. After blending, allow the artwork to dry completely.

Additionally, for a more eco-friendly option, vegetable oil can be used as an alternative to baby oil for blending oil pastels. It offers similar results, helping to create a smooth and cohesive look.

You can also use alcohol

Moreover, alcohol can also be used for blending oil pastels. It breaks down the oil pastel’s waxy consistency, allowing for more fluid blending and creating interesting textures and effects.

As with baby oil, apply alcohol sparingly with a cotton swab or brush, and allow the artwork to dry thoroughly after blending. Each of these mediums – baby oil, vegetable oil, and alcohol – provides unique properties, allowing artists to experiment and achieve diverse effects in their oil pastel artworks.

Does blending baby oil with oil pastels leave an oily residue on paper?

Baby oil is not recommended for blending with pastels on paper because many believe it’s too oily and may leave residue behind. But.. on the flip side there are lots of actual experiments that have been run that show baby oil does not actually stain or leave an oil residue on paper.

My answer is you can use baby oil to blend oil pastels on paper without leaving an oily residue because baby oil actually evaporates quite quickly compared to other natural oils. The fragrance that is added to baby oil may stay on your artwork for a short while but that should have little effect in the long term.

What is baby oil anyway?

Baby oil is actually mineral oil. The main ingredient of baby oil is mineral oil, which has been used as a cosmetic for decades to moisturize skin and remove makeup. It’s also widely used in the medical profession because it kills bacteria – so even though people think it may leave residue on paper, this isn’t true at all!

blending oil pastels with baby oil
Baby oil

Is baby oil toxic?

Baby oil is not toxic, but it isn’t safe to ingest.

Alternatives to using Baby Oil for blending oil pastels

Blending Oil Pastels with Alcohol: Secret Techniques To Use

Blending oil pastels with alcohol is a fun and easy way to create unique and interesting effects in your artwork. By using alcohol, you can achieve a watercolor-like effect with your oil pastels. The alcohol thins out the oil pastels, making them easier to blend and creating a more fluid texture.

One of the benefits of blending oil pastels with alcohol is that it allows you to create a range of colors and shades. By blending different colors together, you can create new shades and tones that are not possible with just one color.

Additionally, using alcohol to blend oil pastels can help you achieve a more seamless and professional-looking transition between colors. It’s important to be careful when using alcohol, however, as it can dissolve the oil pastels if too much is used.

Oil pastels, a favorite type of art medium among pastel artists, can be transformed in different ways to achieve a smooth or textured look. One such new technique is blending with alcohol, giving your artwork a new look. Let’s delve into this method and understand the best practices.

Blending Oil Pastels with Alcohol – Quick Tips

Blending oil pastels with alcohol isn’t just about the vibrant burst of color pigment; it’s also about the ease with which the medium moves. Here’s how you can experiment:

Starting Off

Lay your first layer of pastels. Remember, whether you’re working on a rough surface or the tooth of the paper, the layers of pastel matter. For larger areas, you may want to apply thick layers of oil pastel, whereas thin layers might be better suited for smaller areas.

The Alcohol Wash

Dip a paintbrush into 70% rubbing alcohol and gently go over your pastel work. This creates a wet wash, reminiscent of watercolour paint, but with a unique touch only oil pastels can offer.

For the Messy Artist

Having wet wipes or a paper towel on hand is always a good idea. Alcohol can move quickly, sometimes merging different colours together unexpectedly. Plus, spills happen!

Surface Check

Before you get too deep into your blending techniques, ensure that your prepared surfaces can handle alcohol. It’s essential that they resist the blending liquid to avoid unwanted smudging or merging.

Can you blend oil pastels with mineral turpentine?

Blending oil pastels with mineral turpentine is another blending method. Mineral turpentine also works like baby oil but it has a strong smell and odor compared to baby oil and harder to wash off. It also has the risk of removing any layers of oil pastels that you may have applied earlier. My tip: don’t use it.

Blending Oil Pastels with Alcohol – Final Touches

After blending, a fixative spray might be your best option to seal your work, especially if you’ve worked in layers of colors. This will ensure longevity and keep your vibrant colours intact.

Pro-tip for Pastel Artists: Always keep tissue paper, pastel pencils, and coloured pencils nearby for easier access. Whether you’re adding details like delicate flower petals or simply refining an edge, having a range of art supplies aids in refining your masterpiece.

Can you blend oil pastels with mineral spirits?

You sure can. Mineral spirits can be a game-changer when working with oil pastels. By introducing mineral spirits to your toolkit, you can transform the consistency and appearance of your pastels.

Benefits of Using Mineral Spirits with Oil Pastels:

  • Achieve Flow: It helps thin out the oil pastels, giving them a wetter and more fluid consistency.
  • Conceal Paper Whiteness: Ensure none of the underlying paper shows through.
  • Layer Up: With mineral spirits, you can confidently layer on thick pastel, creating a rich depth.
  • Texture and Finish: Whether you aim for a smooth finish or want to introduce unique textures, mineral spirits are versatile.
  • Mix It Up: Effortlessly blend colors to achieve the desired hue or gradient.

Exploring Other Solvents:

While mineral spirits work wonders, you aren’t limited to just one solvent. Other options like turpentine or a citrus-based thinner can be equally effective (but very smelly), even with water-soluble oil pastels (but stick with water when using water-soluble pastels, really as water is much easier to get and use). 

Can you blend oil pastels with Gamsol?

I love Gamsol, I have written about it so many times. It’s a great thinner.

Gamsol, which is a popular brand of odorless mineral spirits (OMS), can be effectively used to blend oil pastels.

Why Use Gamsol with Oil Pastels:

  • Smoothness and Fluidity: Gamsol thins out oil pastels, making them more fluid, and allows for smoother blends.
  • Refined Edges: Using Gamsol helps in refining and softening edges, which can be particularly useful in portraiture or detailed works.
  • Layering: By thinning the initial layers with Gamsol, artists can easily layer more oil pastel on top without a chunky buildup.
  • Enhanced Textures: For artists who love experimenting, Gamsol can help in both creating intricate textures and in producing a refined, smooth finish.
  • Depth and Dimension: Mixing and blending different oil pastel shades with Gamsol can give the artwork added depth and dimension.

How to Use Gamsol with Oil Pastels:

  1. Application: Lay down your initial layers of oil pastel.
  2. Introduce Gamsol: Using a brush, gently apply Gamsol to the oil pastel. You’ll notice the oil pastel starts to thin out and becomes more malleable.
  3. Blend and Refine: Use brushes or other blending tools to manipulate the now Gamsol-thinned oil pastel to achieve the desired effect.

Safety First:

While Gamsol is less toxic and has fewer fumes than traditional mineral spirits, it’s still a good idea to work in a well-ventilated area. Also, always make sure the art surface you’re using is compatible with Gamsol to avoid any unexpected reactions or results.

A Word of Caution:

Always exercise care when choosing your blending medium and surface. Organic oils might not be ideal for absorbent surfaces like paper, as they can compromise the archival quality of the artwork. Moreover, it’s crucial to ensure that the surface you’re working on can handle the blending liquid without adverse effects.

What should I use to blend oil pastels?

You can use a cloth or a chamois for blending pastels. You can also blend pastels with a cloth, but a chamois is far better. A chamois is an extremely soft and flexible leather that works well with pastels. You can get one quite cheaply from any car wash supplier or online.

You can also use a Q tip (which is what I use) as they are cheap, easy to find and you can use them like a little brush to work your oil pastel as you blend it. I feel you have more control when using a Q tip for blending oil pastels with baby oil.

Remember to use one Q tip per color or you will end up mixing colors!

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Using Q tips are my pick for blending oil pastels with baby oil

Do you need to seal oil pastels?

No. Once the oil pastels are blended with baby oil they become one color, this means that blending them together will not affect their texture or coverage at all – which is why you don’t need to seal it after blending!

How do I blend my oil pastel?

The best way to get a really smooth result when blending your artwork is by using circular movements over and under each other.

Try blending in different directions too just for fun but always make sure you finish off with some nice circular blending motions so everything looks even and consistent throughout your artwork.

Other Blending Techniques for Oil Pastels

While alcohol offers a certain ease of use, there are various tools and methods you can use for blending:

Palette Play

Cut off small chunks from your soft pastel stick or from hard pastels and place them onto a palette. 

Using a paint knife or palette knife, mix them to create different shades or an entirely new hue.

Direct Blending

Some artists find the easiest way is to blend oil pastels directly onto their drawing board. A pastel shaper or even a simple cotton bud can be used for smooth blending.

Additive Methods

If alcohol isn’t your preferred blending medium, fret not. From acrylic paint to soluble oil pastels or even oil paints, there are countless ways to transform your artwork.

How to Blend Oil Pastels with Baby Oil: Step by Step Instructions

To blend your oil pastel colors, you’ll need some paper, color oil pastels, Q tips, cloth or a chamois.

Dip the Q tip or pointy end of a chamois/cloth and slowly blend the oil pastel using a gentle circular motion until you start to see the colors blend.

Do not add too much baby oil too quickly or it will start to run and drip on your artwork.

If using alcohols instead of baby oil, then apply paint directly onto piece rather than mixing it on palette first.

The main advantage compared to blending in white spirits or alcohols is that there’s no strong smell; the disadvantage is that the surface becomes very sticky if you apply too much so it might be better suited to smaller paintings which will dry faster.

I have posted a YouTube video to show you other ways to use baby oil to blend oil pastels below.

Why won’t my oil pastels blend?

Sometimes, oil pastels can be tricky to blend. They’re not like chalky pastels, which are easy to smudge.

If your paper or art surface isn’t good, your oil pastels might look streaky. Don’t worry!

Here are some tips to help:

  1. Pick a Good Surface: Think of it like picking a good playground to play on. Some are smoother, and some are bumpy. For oil pastels, a smoother playground (or surface) works best.
  2. Use Tools to Blend: Just like you use tools to build a sandcastle, you can use things like tissues, a twisty paper stick called a “tortillion”, or a special leather piece called “chamois” to help blend your pastels.
  3. Start with Dark Colors: When you’re mixing colors, always start with the darker shade first. It’s like putting your socks on before your shoes!
  4. Keep Your Pastels Clean: Imagine if your crayons were dirty, they wouldn’t color right, right? So always keep your pastels clean. If they’re dirty, your art might look muddy.
  5. Try Some Turpentine Oil: Sometimes you just have to use turpentine oil to make blending even smoother. This is usually because the oil pastel is low quality and needs something stronger and less refined to make it more blendable.
  6. Water Can Help Too: Just like you can mix paint with water to see new colors, sometimes a little water can help blend your oil pastels.

Understanding Oil Pastels

Oil pastels are a type of pastel that is made from a mixture of pigment, wax, and oil. They are a versatile medium that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including paper, canvas, and wood.

The colors of oil pastels are vibrant and can be blended together to create new colors and effects.

Oil pastels are a fantastic medium for artists of all skill levels. They are easy to use and can be used to create a wide range of effects, from bold and bright to soft and subtle.

They are also a great medium for experimenting with different techniques and styles.

When working with oil pastels, it is important to be careful not to apply too much pressure to the pastel stick.

This can cause the wax to melt and smudge, making it difficult to achieve the desired effect. It is also important to be mindful of the colors you are using and how they will blend together.

One key to successful blending with oil pastels is to overlap the colors. This allows the colors to blend together naturally and creates a smooth transition between them.

Another technique that can be used to blend oil pastels is to use alcohol. This can help to break down the wax and allow the colors to blend together more easily.

Overall, oil pastels are a key medium for any artist looking to experiment with color and texture. They are versatile, easy to use, and can be used to create a wide range of effects. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, oil pastels are a great tool to have in your artistic arsenal.

Blending Basics

Blending oil pastels with alcohol is a fun and easy way to create unique effects in your artwork. There are several techniques you can use to blend oil pastels, including blending with your fingers, cotton swabs, paper stumps, and paint brushes. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Blending with Fingers

Blending with your fingers is a simple and effective way to blend oil pastels. To blend with your fingers, simply apply the oil pastel to your surface and then use your fingers to blend the colors together. This technique is great for creating soft, subtle blends.

Blending with Cotton Swabs

Using cotton swabs is another great way to blend oil pastels. To blend with cotton swabs, simply apply the oil pastel to your surface and then use the cotton swab to blend the colors together. This technique is great for creating more precise blends and for adding texture to your artwork.

Blending with Paper Stumps

Paper stumps are a popular tool for blending oil pastels. To use a paper stump, simply apply the oil pastel to your surface and then use the paper stump to blend the colors together. This technique is great for creating smooth, even blends.

Blending with Paint Brushes

Using paint brushes is another great way to blend oil pastels. To blend with paint brushes, simply apply the oil pastel to your surface and then use the paint brush to blend the colors together. This technique is great for creating unique effects and for adding texture to your artwork.

When blending oil pastels, it is important to be careful not to over-blend. Over-blending can cause the colors to become muddy and can ruin the overall effect of your artwork. It is also key to overlap the colors to create a smooth transition between them.

In summary, blending oil pastels with alcohol is a fun and easy way to create unique effects in your artwork. Whether you choose to blend with your fingers, cotton swabs, paper stumps, or paint brushes, be sure to experiment with different techniques and have fun with your art!

Using Alcohol for Blending

When it comes to blending oil pastels, alcohol is a great option that can help you achieve a smooth and seamless finish.

There are different types of alcohol that you can use, each with its own unique properties and benefits.

In this section, we will explore the different types of alcohol that you can use for blending oil pastels.

Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is a type of alcohol that is commonly used for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. It is also a great option for blending oil pastels.

Rubbing alcohol is readily available at most drugstores and is relatively inexpensive. It is also easy to use and dries quickly, making it a popular choice for many artists.

To use rubbing alcohol for blending oil pastels, simply apply a small amount of alcohol to a blending tool, such as a cotton ball or a blending stump, and blend the colors together.

Be careful not to use too much alcohol, as it can cause the oil pastels to become too watery and difficult to work with.

Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol is another type of alcohol that can be used for blending oil pastels. It is a stronger and more potent form of alcohol than rubbing alcohol, and it can be found at most hardware stores and home improvement centers.

To use isopropyl alcohol for blending oil pastels, simply apply a small amount to a blending tool and blend the colors together. Isopropyl alcohol dries more slowly than rubbing alcohol, which can be beneficial if you need more time to work with the oil pastels.

Denatured Alcohol

Denatured alcohol is a type of alcohol that is commonly used as a solvent. It is a strong and potent form of alcohol that can be found at most hardware stores and home improvement centers.

Denatured alcohol is also relatively inexpensive and easy to use.

To use denatured alcohol for blending oil pastels, simply apply a small amount to a blending tool and blend the colors together.

Denatured alcohol dries more quickly than rubbing alcohol and isopropyl alcohol, which can be beneficial if you need to work quickly.

In conclusion, alcohol is a great option for blending oil pastels. Whether you choose rubbing alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, or denatured alcohol, each type has its own unique properties and benefits.

Be careful not to use too much alcohol, as it can cause the oil pastels to become too watery and difficult to work with.

With the right technique and a little bit of practice, you can achieve a smooth and seamless finish with your oil pastels.

Blending with Other Materials

When it comes to blending oil pastels, there are a variety of materials you can use to achieve different effects.

In this section, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of using baby oil, mineral spirits, and linseed oil.

Baby Oil

Baby oil is a common household item that can be used to blend oil pastels. It is a great option for beginners or those who prefer a softer, more subtle effect.

To use baby oil, apply a few drops onto your work canvas and use a cotton ball to blend the colors together.

Be careful not to use too much oil, as this can cause the paper to become too saturated and difficult to work with.

Mineral Spirits

Mineral spirits are a stronger solvent that can be used to achieve a more intense blending effect. They are particularly useful for creating smooth gradients and transitions between colors.

They can be harsh on the paper and may cause it to become brittle over time. To use mineral spirits, apply a small amount onto a cotton ball or brush and blend the colors together.

Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves to avoid skin irritation.

Linseed Oil

Linseed oil is a natural oil that can be used to blend oil pastels. It is a great option for those who prefer a more traditional approach to painting.

But, it can be difficult to work with and may require a longer drying time.

To use linseed oil, mix a small amount with your oil pastels on a palette and apply the mixture onto your canvas.

Use a brush or blending tool to blend the colors together. Be careful not to use too much oil, as this can cause the paper to become too saturated and difficult to work with.

In conclusion, blending oil pastels with different materials can create a variety of effects and textures in your artwork.

Whether you choose to use baby oil, mineral spirits, or linseed oil, be careful to use the appropriate amount and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid any health risks.

Experiment with different materials to find the ones that work best for your artistic style and preferences.

Blending on Different Surfaces

When it comes to blending oil pastels, the surface you’re working on can make a big difference in the end result. Here are some tips for blending on different surfaces.

Pastel Paper

Pastel paper is a popular surface for oil pastels because it has a rough texture that allows the pastels to adhere well.

However, this texture can make blending difficult, especially if you’re trying to blend two colors that are very different from each other.

One technique you can try is to use a blending stump or cotton swab to blend the colors together before applying them to the paper. This will help create a smoother transition between the colors.

Another option is to use a solvent like alcohol to blend the colors together.

This can be especially effective on pastel paper because the alcohol will break down the binder in the pastels, allowing them to blend more easily.

Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are a smooth surface that can be a bit more challenging to work with when blending oil pastels.

They can also produce some interesting effects that you might not be able to achieve on other surfaces.

One technique you can try is to use a solvent like alcohol to blend the colors together.

Because the surface is smooth, the alcohol will evaporate quickly, allowing you to blend the colors without creating a muddy mess.

Another option is to use a scraper tool to create texture on the surface before applying the pastels. This will give the pastels something to adhere to and can make blending easier.

No matter what surface you’re working on, remember to be careful when blending oil pastels.

The rough texture of pastel paper and the smooth surface of ceramic tiles can both be unforgiving if you apply too much pressure or blend too aggressively.

Take your time and be gentle, and you’ll be able to create beautiful blended effects that will make your artwork stand out.

Advanced Techniques

To take your oil pastel blending to the next level, there are a few advanced techniques you can try. These techniques will help you layer colors, create fine details, and achieve smooth transitions in your artwork.

Layering Colors

One of the benefits of oil pastels is that they can be layered to create depth and texture in your artwork. To layer colors, start by applying a base layer of color to your paper.

Then, use a lighter or darker color to add shading or highlights to your artwork. You can repeat this process as many times as you like to create a layered effect.

Creating Fine Details

Oil pastels are great for creating fine details in your artwork. To create fine details, use a sharp oil pastel or a small brush to add small lines or dots of color to your artwork.

You can also use a toothpick or a stylus to scratch into the oil pastel to create fine lines or textures.

Achieving Smooth Transitions

To achieve smooth transitions between colors in your artwork, use a blending tool such as a blending stump or a cotton swab.

Start by applying a base layer of color to your paper. Then, use the blending tool to blend the colors together, working from light to dark.

This will help create a smooth transition between the colors in your artwork.

Necessary to note that these advanced techniques require practice and patience. Be careful not to overwork your oil pastels, as this can cause the colors to become muddy or blend together too much.

Key to remember that oil pastels can be a bit messy, so it’s important to work on a protected surface and to clean your hands and tools regularly.

With these advanced techniques, you can take your oil pastel artwork to the next level. Experiment with layering colors, creating fine details, and achieving smooth transitions to create stunning pieces of art.

Safety Precautions

When blending oil pastels with alcohol, it is necessary to take some safety precautions to avoid any accidents. Below are some key safety tips to keep in mind when blending oil pastels with alcohol:

  • Ventilation: Ensure that you are working in a well-ventilated area. The fumes from alcohol can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities. It is best to work in a room with open windows or use a fan to circulate the air.
  • Protective Gear: Wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask to protect your skin and lungs from the fumes. This is especially important if you are working with alcohol for extended periods.
  • Flammability: Alcohol is highly flammable, so it is important to keep it away from any sources of heat or flames. Avoid smoking or using any open flames in the area where you are working.
  • Storage: Store your alcohol in a cool, dry place away from any sources of heat or flames. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
  • Clean Up: When you are finished blending, clean up any spills or drips immediately. Dispose of any used cotton balls or paper towels in a sealed container to prevent any accidental fires.

By following these key safety tips, you can ensure that you are blending oil pastels with alcohol safely and without any accidents.

When blending oil pastels with alcohol, it is key to experiment with different techniques and find the ones that work best for your artistic vision.

Some techniques to try include using a blending stump, tissue, or your own finger to blend the colors.

Overall, blending oil pastels with alcohol can be a fun and creative way to add depth and texture to your artwork.

Just be sure to take the necessary precautions and experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you.

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