For artists seeking the perfect blend of traditional pastel texture with the precision of a pencil, the Derwent Pastel Pencils 72 set stands out as a top choice. Whether you're a seasoned illustrator or a beginner in fine art, this comprehensive set brings together vibrant pigment, blendability, and detailed control.
In this guide, we dive deep into the product's performance, quality, and value for money.
Overview of Derwent Pastel Pencils
- Total Colours: 72 vibrant and richly pigmented shades
- Core Diameter: 4mm soft pastel core for smoother laydown
- Barrel: Durable round wooden casing for easy sharpening
- Texture: Soft, powdery finish that mimics traditional pastels
- Water Solubility: Slightly water-soluble for subtle wash effects
- Lightfastness: 87% rated for museum-quality longevity
- Origin: Made in the UK by Derwent, a heritage brand
- Vegan Friendly: No animal derivatives used in production
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extensive colour palette to support detailed compositions and smooth transitions
- Lower dust compared to stick pastels, cleaner workspace
- Fine point capability—ideal for eyes, hair, fur, and textures
- Layerable and mixable for subtle or vibrant effects
- Compatible with other media (ink, graphite, watercolour)
- Available in a premium wooden box or standard metal tin
Cons:
- Prone to breakage if dropped or roughly sharpened
- May require fixative for finished work to prevent smudging
- Cost can be a barrier for beginners or casual hobbyists
What’s Inside the Box?
The set includes a well-curated selection of warm and cool tones across the full spectrum. It covers skin tones, earth tones, muted greys, and vibrant primaries—essential for portraits, landscapes, and imaginative scenes alike.
Ideal Use Cases
- Realistic portraiture and figure studies
- Nature sketching: animals, plants, birds
- Urban sketching and architectural details
- Mixed media artwork and pastel overlays
- Layering and blending with soft backgrounds and crisp details
Tips for Optimal Use
- Use a craft knife or pastel-friendly sharpener for better control
- Blend using a tortillon, cotton bud, or your fingertip
- Spray light fixative layers to preserve work without dulling colours
- Store pencils flat to prevent core breakage
- Pair with toned paper or pastel paper for textured effects
FAQs About Derwent Pastel Pencils 72
Are these pencils suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Despite being professional-grade, they are intuitive to use, making them perfect for students and hobbyists too.
Can you sharpen Derwent Pastel Pencils?
Yes, but it’s best to use a manual sharpener or craft knife. Avoid standard electric sharpeners to minimise breakage.
Do they require fixative?
Yes. Like all pastels, a light fixative spray will help protect your finished artwork from smudging over time.
What surfaces work best?
Pastel paper, sanded paper, and toned sketch pads are excellent. The tooth of the paper enhances pigment grip and blending.
Where to Buy
You can find the Derwent Pastel Pencils 72 set at these trusted online art stores:
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a pastel pencil set that balances high pigment quality with exceptional control, the Derwent Pastel Pencils 72 is worth the investment. With a well-rounded palette and the trust of generations of artists, it’s a tool that grows with your skills and delivers professional results across a variety of styles and subjects.
"A dream set for serious artists who want precision without sacrificing pastel texture." – UK Art Supplies Review
Learn More About Pastels
For more information on pastel art techniques, check out this Wikipedia article on pastels.
