Brushes for Pastel - Da Vinci
Discover brushes and tools for application, blending, and detail work with pastels.
Pastel Brushes: Popular Questions from Artists
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.
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
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.
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.
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What other tools can be used aside from pastel brushes?
You can use sponge blenders, Sofft knives and covers, foam-tipped applicators, and colour shapers with different profiles. These pastel tools help apply and blend pigment in soft or detailed areas.
What are silicone brushes used for?
Silicone brushes are non-absorbent and ideal for blending, pushing pigment, or lifting pastel in precise areas. Their flexibility allows for cleaner marks and shaping.
What are the best tools for precision when working with pastels?
Try Sofft knives with pointed covers, small domed sponges, or angled synthetic brushes. Their shapes give you control in tight or detailed areas.
Can these brushes be used with oil pastels as well as soft pastels?
Yes, but oil pastels require sturdier brushes. We recommend synthetic or silicone tools, which are easier to clean and handle thicker material.
Why is it important to choose a soft brush?
Soft brushes protect the surface and pigment. Coarse brushes can scratch or remove too much pastel, whereas soft tools blend and build colour gently.