Oil Sticks & Bars- R&F
Oil sticks and bars are traditional oil paint compressed into a stick and encased in wax. They can be used directly to add bold color onto a range of surfaces. Once favored by Picasso, oil sticks can also be used with a brush to create traditional oil painting brush marks.
R&F : Pigment Sticks
From $8.12
Oil Sticks and Bars: Popular Questions from Artists
What Are Oil Sticks and Bars?
Oil sticks and bars are innovative painting tools that combine the qualities of oil paint with the convenience of a crayon.
Made from pure pigments, oils and a small amount of wax, oil sticks deliver vibrant, rich colors. Oil sticks offer artists a portable, mess-free alternative to traditional oil paints. They are perfect for direct application to surfaces or for use with brushes and mediums.
Our Guide to Oil Painting is an exhaustive resource that provides everything you need to know for oil painting, including expert techniques and tips for using oil sticks.
Artists use oil sticks and bars for their versatility and convenience. Ideal for sketching, layering, and blending, they allow for bold, expressive marks and detailed work.
Their compact form makes oil sticks perfect for on-the-go creativity, eliminating the need for extensive equipment. Solvents and brushes can also be used alongside them, offering even greater flexibility in techniques.
‘Whether used for the initial gestures to sketch out a composition or for the addition of accents and highlights on a more developed piece, the application of color is directly in the artist’s hand.
A light touch will make a crayon-like line, and a hard touch will produce thick, painterly marks. Once the color has been laid down, it can be manipulated with a palette knife or a brush or extended with an oil medium. Dipping the stick directly into linseed oil before using achieves a wonderfully soft and luxurious mark.’
- Evie Hatch, Studio and Materials Specialist, Jackson's Art Supplies
Oil sticks and bars are a relatively modern addition to the artist’s toolkit. They were first developed in 1949 by Henri Sennelier, son of Gustave Sennelier, who founded Sennelier. The creation of this new medium was in response to Pablo Picasso’s request for a versatile medium he could apply to any surface.
Other renowned contemporary artists like Cy Twombly and Jean-Michel Basquiat have famously incorporated oil sticks into their work, showcasing their potential for creating bold, expressive marks. Despite their modern origins, oil sticks have quickly become a staple in studios around the world.
At Jackson’s, we offer a carefully curated selection of high quality oil sticks and oil bars from leading brands, including Sennelier and R&F.
With a 4.8-star Trustpilot rating and a reputation for outstanding service, we’re proud to support artists of all levels with materials they can trust.
Shop Oil Sticks and Bars
Explore Jackson’s extensive range of oil sticks and bars, perfect for both beginners and professionals. Whether you’re looking to experiment with new techniques or find a portable alternative to traditional oil paints, we have options to suit every need.
Need help? Visit our Contact Us or Help & Advice pages. Ready to create? Shop now.
Can You Use Oil Sticks and Bars with Solvent or Oil?
Yes, oil paint sticks can be used with solvents or oil to thin marks and create smoother effects. Add these mediums gradually to maintain control over consistency.
What Is the Difference Between Oil Sticks and Oil Pastels?
Oil pastels contain less oil than oil sticks, offering a softer effect and longer workability. Oil sticks contain a drying oil such as linseed as the main binder, whereas oil pastels use a non-drying oil and will remain workable indefinitely.
To learn more, read ‘Oil Stick vs Oil Pastel Explained’ on Jackson’s Art Blog.
What Are Some Common Techniques When Using Oil Paint Sticks and Bars?
Oil sticks can be used directly on your surface for bold, expressive marks, or blended with brushes for softer effects. They are excellent for layering, sketching, and detailed work.
Can Artists Use Oil Sticks to Sketch an Outline Before Painting?
Yes, many artists use oil sticks to establish initial outlines or marks before painting. This method is quick and versatile, providing a good foundation for detailed compositions.
Can Oil Sticks and Bars Be Worked Into a Painting?
Absolutely. Oil sticks can add depth and detail to an oil painting. Let the base layers dry to avoid disturbing the underlying paint, unless you want to work wet-on-wet.
Which Surfaces Are Best for Oil Sticks?
Oil sticks work beautifully on primed surfaces like canvas, paper, and wood. Explore Jackson’s range of canvases and paper for surfaces tailored to this medium.
How Can I Achieve Detail Using Oil Sticks?
While oil sticks excel in bold marks, they can also be sharpened for finer details. Use a sharp blade and gentle pressure to maintain their shape.
How Should I Store Oil Sticks and Bars?
Store oil sticks in airtight containers to slow oxidation and preserve their quality. Proper storage ensures they remain soft and ready for use.
How Long Does It Take for Oil Paint Sticks and Bars to Dry?
Drying times depend on the thickness of the application. Thin layers may dry in a couple of days, while thicker areas can take weeks or months, similar to traditional oil paints.