What are Pastel Brushes?

Pastel brushes are specialist tools designed for working with soft pastels, pan pastels, and occasionally oil pastels. They typically feature short, densely packed bristles, often angled or domed, which allow for smooth application and controlled blending. In addition to classic pastel brushes, tools such as silicone-tipped applicators, sponge blenders, and foam tools are also used, especially with pan pastels.

Why Do Artists Use Brushes for Pastel Painting?

Artists use pastel brushes to blend, apply, and manipulate pastel pigment with precision and care. These tools help control colour transitions, soften edges, add fine detail, or even lift colour to refine a composition. ‘Brushes for soft pastel tend to have quite short hair and a “stubby” shape to the brush head. This lends itself well to blending pastels. Due to the delicacy of the medium, you will find that you will only need to use the brush very lightly, as otherwise you may lose a lot of pastel dust from the surface.’ - A Guide to Pastel Painting , Jackson’s Art Supplies

How Long Have Artists Used Pastel Brushes?

Pastels have been in use since the 16th century. Early practitioners included Leonardo da Vinci and Jean-Baptiste Perronneau. By the 18th century, pastels gained popularity as a standalone medium, and tools evolved to meet their demands. Early artists used fingers or cloths to blend. Today, dedicated pastel brushes and applicators provide a cleaner, more precise alternative for pastellists.

Why Choose Pastel Brushes from Jackson’s Art Supplies?

Jackson’s offers a wide selection of pastel brushes and blending tools from leading brands such as PanPastel, our own Jackson’s range, and more. Our selection includes sponge tools with replaceable covers, silicone-tipped tools, and pastel brushes in a variety of shapes. We are proud to offer high quality brushes and tools, backed by years of industry expertise and thousands of five-star reviews. We offer fast delivery, eco-friendly packaging, and expert advice.

Pastel Brushes | Brushes for Pastel

Pastel brushes are perfect for applying, blending, and creating detailed work with pastels. These tools help you achieve smooth transitions and precise marks in your pastel work.

Whether you need a pastel blending brush for soft gradations or firmer tools for applying colour, our range supports every technique. Perfect for creating atmospheric effects and refined details. Browse our selection of pastel brushes from Da Vinci, PanPastel, Sennelier, and Jackson's.