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Soft pastels offer a uniquely tactile experience, where pure pigment meets paper in a way that feels immediate and deeply satisfying. The challenge, however, lies in finding a set that balances vibrancy, blendability, and durability without breaking the bank or crumbling into dust at the first touch.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind WellFizz. I’ve spent countless hours analyzing the composition, pigment loads, and binder ratios across dozens of pastel sets to understand what truly separates a frustratingly brittle chalk from a richly performative stick.
Whether you are sketching on textured paper or crafting a detailed portrait, this guide cuts through the noise to present the best chalk pastels for every skill level and artistic ambition.
How To Choose The Best Chalk Pastels
Selecting the right pastel set involves more than just picking a favorite color palette. The key factors are the stick’s hardness, the binder used, and the shape of the chalk itself. A soft, high-pigment stick blends beautifully but may produce more dust, while a harder stick offers precision and control for fine details. The most versatile sets offer a middle ground: a creamy, buttery feel that layers well without excessive crumbling.
Pigment Load and Lightfastness
This determines how vivid the colors appear and how well they resist fading over time. Premium brands like Faber-Castell use multi-screened pigments for high lightfastness, ensuring your artwork retains its intended intensity even when displayed. Budget-friendly sets may still offer vibrant colors but can lack the archival quality necessary for gallery work.
Stick Shape and Grip
Square sticks are preferred by many artists because they allow for broad side strokes and sharp edge lines without needing to snap the chalk. Round sticks are more traditional and comfortable for general drawing. The diameter also matters—thicker sticks (around 10–11mm) hold up better under pressure and last longer, while thinner sticks are more delicate but offer finer control.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mungyo Gallery Soft Oil Pastel | Mid-Range | Abstract art, blending | 70mm × 11mm round stick | Amazon |
| Sargent Art Square Chalk Pastels | Mid-Range | Sidewalk art, large areas | 2.5″ × 0.38″ square stick | Amazon |
| Faber-Castell Goldfaber Studio Pastels | Premium | Professional portraits, layering | Extremely intense pigments | Amazon |
| MARJAQE Square Soft Pastels | Premium | Fine art, classroom use | Non-toxic, square stick | Amazon |
| Ohuhu 72 Long Chalk Pastels | Value | Beginners, color exploration | 10 × 10 × 65mm stick size | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Faber-Castell Goldfaber Studio Soft Pastel Chalks
Faber-Castell delivers a studio-grade experience with these artist pastels. The pigment intensity is remarkable—colors lay down rich and stay vibrant even after blending. The round sticks feel comfortable in the hand for extended drawing sessions, and the B-hardness provides a perfect balance between softness for blending and firmness for controlled marks.
Users consistently praise the adherence to textured paper and the ability to layer colors without muddiness. The 24-color set covers a solid spectrum for landscapes, portraits, and abstract work. For beginners, it offers a clear upgrade path from cheaper waxier options, while professionals will appreciate the consistency across the set.
One minor friction point is the price point, which sits above entry-level options. However, the longevity of each stick and the sheer color payoff justify the investment for those serious about their craft. Adhesion is excellent, and the minimal dust production keeps your workspace cleaner than softer alternatives.
Why it’s great
- Extremely high pigment load for vibrant, fade-resistant colors
- Blends smoothly with finger, tissue, or blending tools
- Comfortable ergonomic grip for long drawing sessions
Good to know
- Premium pricing compared to entry-level brands
- 24-color set may be limited for advanced color work
2. Sargent Art Colored Square Chalk Pastels, 48 Count
Sargent Art’s 48-count set is a workhorse for artists who need volume and versatility. The square stick shape is a major advantage: you can use the flat side for broad washes and the edge for crisp lines without switching tools. The velvety dry texture provides superior control, making it a favorite for sidewalk art, chalkboards, and large-scale projects.
Customer feedback highlights the exceptional vibrancy on pavement—users report covering a 6’x8’ area with less than half a stick. The color selection includes fluorescent options that pop against dark backgrounds. Archival quality may not rival premium brands, but for event signage and temporary installations, this set delivers remarkable bang for your buck.
Some users have noted occasional inconsistency between batches, with a few sticks arriving slightly drier than expected. The square shape can also produce more dust than round sticks, so a workable fixative or spray is recommended for final pieces. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for both studio practice and outdoor applications.
Why it’s great
- Square stick for both broad strokes and fine edge lines
- Rich pigmentation rivals more expensive brands like Prismacolor
- Excellent for large-format works due to efficient coverage
Good to know
- Some sticks may be drier or more brittle in certain batches
- Produces more dust than round, softer pastels
3. Mungyo Gallery Soft Oil Pastel, 36 Colors
Mungyo’s Gallery Soft Oil Pastels blur the line between traditional chalk and oil pastel. The oil binder creates a creamy, buttery consistency that glides across paper with almost no drag. This makes them exceptionally easy to blend—use a tissue, cotton swab, or even solvent for painterly effects. The 36-color set provides a well-rounded palette for abstract art, landscapes, and illustrations.
Users frequently describe the texture as “luxurious” and appreciate the minimal odor compared to other oil-based brands. The round, 11mm diameter sticks feel substantial and resist breakage better than thinner alternatives. For technique exploration, these pastels support scraping, stippling, and color gradations without flaking.
The trade-off is that the oil base means these aren’t pure dry pastels—they won’t work the same way on absorbent pastel paper. They are best suited for mixed-media work or applications where a slightly waxy finish is acceptable. Some artists note they are slightly too soft for detailed line work, but for blending-heavy styles, they are a delight.
Why it’s great
- Buttery smooth consistency for effortless blending and layering
- Low odor formula for comfortable indoor use
- Versatile technique support including scraping and gradations
Good to know
- Oil base means different adhesion compared to dry chalk pastels
- May be too soft for precise, detailed line work
4. MARJAQE Non Toxic Square Soft Pastels, 48 Colors
MARJAQE positions itself as a safety-first option without sacrificing performance. These square soft pastels are certified non-toxic (ASTM-D4236), making them suitable for classrooms, children’s projects, and any environment where health standards are paramount. The 48-color set offers a broad spectrum including essential primaries, earth tones, and pastel shades for comprehensive art education.
The square shape is ideal for controlled application—the fine point allows for detailed line work while the flat side covers larger areas efficiently. Users report excellent results on sanded pastel paper, with good layer adhesion and blendability. The packaging includes sponge padding to minimize breakage during transit, a thoughtful touch for fragile chalk.
One common observation is that the sticks can be somewhat hard compared to premium soft pastels, requiring a bit more pressure for full pigment laydown. This hardness, however, translates to less dust and better longevity—each stick lasts longer. A few customers noted that initial use may require rubbing off a surface coating to unlock the pigmented core.
Why it’s great
- Non-toxic certification for worry-free use by all ages
- Square shape with fine point for both broad and detailed work
- Harder consistency means less dust and longer stick life
Good to know
- Harder than premium soft pastels, requiring more hand pressure
- Some sticks may have a delicate coating that needs initial abrasion
5. Ohuhu 72 Long Chalk Pastel Set
Ohuhu’s 72-color set is an invitation to explore color theory and value scales without a huge financial commitment. The extra-long sticks (65mm) offer generous mileage, and the inclusion of four fluorescent colors adds a playful dimension for highlights and luminous effects. The set also includes six practice sheets (three black, three white) to get started immediately.
The pastels themselves are soft and vibrant, with a smooth touch that blends well with fingertips. Customers appreciate the sheer variety—72 colors means less time mixing and more time laying down intended hues. The set is packaged in a sturdy plastic case with organized trays, though some users recommend replacing the factory paper with a layer of rice to keep sticks clean from dust and debris.
Potential drawbacks include occasional hard spots within certain sticks, which can be resolved by peeling the label or sanding the tip. The included paper has been described as too rough for seamless blending—users report better results on standard textured pastel paper or canvas. For the price, however, this set offers an exceptional range for beginners and hobbyists exploring the medium.
Why it’s great
- Massive 72-color range with 4 fluorescent shades for special effects
- Extra-long sticks provide extended use and better grip
- Includes bonus papers and organized storage case
Good to know
- Some sticks may have hard inclusions that need sanding
- Included paper is not ideal for smooth blending
FAQ
Are chalk pastels the same as soft pastels?
How do I prevent my pastels from breaking?
Which paper is best for chalk pastels?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the best chalk pastels winner is the Faber-Castell Goldfaber Studio Pastels because they combine extreme pigment intensity with comfortable ergonomics and reliable lightfastness. If you want a massive color selection for experimentation, grab the Ohuhu 72 Long Chalk Pastel Set. And for large projects where square sticks and efficient coverage matter most, nothing beats the Sargent Art 48-Count Set.
Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.