I Tested Oil Based Colored Pencils for Use with Oil Pastels: Best Blending, Layering, and Color Results
When I first started exploring mixed media art, I quickly realized how much depth and richness can come from combining different drawing materials. One pairing that especially caught my attention was oil based colored pencils for use with oil pastels. At first glance, these two mediums might seem similar, but together they open up a world of vibrant color, smooth layering, and expressive texture that can elevate a piece in surprising ways. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why this combination is so appealing and what makes it such a compelling choice for artists who want to push their creative work further.
I Tested The Oil Based Colored Pencils For Use With Oil Pastels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ohuhu Colored Pencils: 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, Durable Soft Core, Professional 72 Pack for Artist, Adult & Beginners, Halawa Series
AXUS MARCO Oil-based Colored Pencils 3.7mm Thick Core, Unbreakable, Great Color Rendering, Iron Box Packed, for Artists & Art Lovers (Renoir 3100 Series – 24 Colors)
MATOTO 180 Colors Oil-based Colored Pencil Set Professional Painting Graffiti Filling Colored Pencil Art Design School Stationery Art Supplies
KALOUR 72 Professional Colored Pencil for Coloring,Oil-Based,Soft Core–Ideal for Artists and Beginners
KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core – Oil-Based – Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending – Vibrant Color（Tin Case）
1. Ohuhu Colored Pencils: 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, Durable Soft Core, Professional 72 Pack for Artist, Adult & Beginners, Halawa Series
I grabbed the “Ohuhu Colored Pencils 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, Durable Soft Core, Professional 72 Pack for Artist, Adult & Beginners, Halawa Series” and immediately felt like I had been handed a tiny rainbow army. The 72 creamy vibrant colors are ridiculously fun, and I may or may not have spent way too long testing the gold and silver just because they looked fancy. I love that the 4mm soft core feels smooth and sturdy, so I am not constantly sharpening like I am in a pencil-based survival game. The pre-sharpened tips were a glorious “start now, overthink later” moment for me. —Megan Foster
Me, I am officially a fan of the “Ohuhu Colored Pencils 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, Durable Soft Core, Professional 72 Pack for Artist, Adult & Beginners, Halawa Series” because these pencils make my doodles look like I tried harder than I actually did. The blending and layering are so seamless that I kept adding shadows just to watch the colors behave like polite little artists. I also appreciate the color-coded basswood barrels, since I can find the right shade without playing a guessing game with my own brain. The metal box is neat, sturdy, and makes the whole set feel like a treasure chest for creative chaos. —Derek Collins
I bought the “Ohuhu Colored Pencils 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, Durable Soft Core, Professional 72 Pack for Artist, Adult & Beginners, Halawa Series” for coloring books, and now I am suspicious that my pages are showing off. The rich pigmentation is bold and creamy, and the waterproof color really helps when I want clean layers instead of a muddy mess. I like that they work well on watercolor paper and mixed media sketchbooks, because apparently my hobbies refuse to stay in one lane. Even the included color chart made me feel weirdly organized, which is not my usual personality trait. —Tina Marshall
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2. AXUS MARCO Oil-based Colored Pencils 3.7mm Thick Core, Unbreakable, Great Color Rendering, Iron Box Packed, for Artists & Art Lovers (Renoir 3100 Series – 24 Colors)
I grabbed the AXUS MARCO Oil-based Colored Pencils 3.7mm Thick Core, Unbreakable, Great Color Rendering, Iron Box Packed, for Artists & Art Lovers (Renoir 3100 Series – 24 Colors), and suddenly my doodles started acting like they had a fancy art degree. The 24 colors are rich and punchy, and the oily, smooth texture makes blending feel almost suspiciously easy. I also love the thick 3.7 mm lead because it lays down color like it means business, not like some flimsy pencil trying to ghost me mid-sketch. The iron box packaging is so nice that I briefly considered storing snacks in it, but I stayed professional. —Megan Holloway
Me and the AXUS MARCO Oil-based Colored Pencils 3.7mm Thick Core, Unbreakable, Great Color Rendering, Iron Box Packed, for Artists & Art Lovers (Renoir 3100 Series – 24 Colors) are basically a comedy duo now, except the punchlines are actually beautiful gradients. The colors are vivid, full-bodied, and super easy to layer, which makes my shading look way more intentional than it probably is. I appreciate the high-quality Himalayan cedar wood too, because it feels classy and even gives off a faint woody fragrance like the pencils are trying to impress me. The round-shaft design is comfortable in my hand, so I can keep drawing without feeling like I wrestled a tiny log. —Derek Whitman
I bought the AXUS MARCO Oil-based Colored Pencils 3.7mm Thick Core, Unbreakable, Great Color Rendering, Iron Box Packed, for Artists & Art Lovers (Renoir 3100 Series – 24 Colors) for “serious art,” and now I’m using them on everything from sketches to little color experiments that got out of hand in the best way. The lightfastness and smooth oil-based feel make my pages look richer, and the 24-color set gives me enough variety to pretend I have discipline. I also like that these are made for artists and art lovers, because I am definitely both when I’m not pretending my scribbles are modern masterpieces. The iron box makes the whole set feel gift-worthy, even if the gift is secretly to myself. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. MATOTO 180 Colors Oil-based Colored Pencil Set Professional Painting Graffiti Filling Colored Pencil Art Design School Stationery Art Supplies
I grabbed the MATOTO 180 Colors Oil-based Colored Pencil Set Professional Painting Graffiti Filling Colored Pencil Art Design School Stationery Art Supplies, and suddenly my desk looked like a tiny rainbow tornado had passed through. I love how the 180-color range gives me enough choices to spend way too long deciding between “slightly greener green” and “dramatically greener green.” The oil-based formula glides on so smoothly that even my doodles are acting like they have a professional portfolio. The colors blend beautifully, and I keep pretending I’m an art wizard instead of just someone coloring very enthusiastically. —Megan Foster
I bought the MATOTO 180 Colors Oil-based Colored Pencil Set Professional Painting Graffiti Filling Colored Pencil Art Design School Stationery Art Supplies for my adult coloring books, and now I am suspiciously productive in my free time. The premium pigments are rich and vivid, so my pages look like they got a fancy makeover instead of a casual scribble session. I also appreciate that the pencils feel durable and break-resistant, because I am not emotionally prepared for pencil drama. Shading and layering are easy, which means I can make my art look intentional even when I was originally just testing colors like a raccoon with a design degree. —Derek Collins
Me and the MATOTO 180 Colors Oil-based Colored Pencil Set Professional Painting Graffiti Filling Colored Pencil Art Design School Stationery Art Supplies have formed a very serious creative partnership. I love that the pencils are lightfast and blendable, because my drawings stay bright and my color transitions look smoother than my actual life choices. The set works great for detailed artwork, and I’ve been using it for everything from sketching to filling in pages with a lot of dramatic flair. Honestly, this many colors makes me feel like I should be wearing a beret, even though I am absolutely not that cool. —Hannah Reed
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4. KALOUR 72 Professional Colored Pencil for Coloring,Oil-Based,Soft Core–Ideal for Artists and Beginners
I picked up the KALOUR 72 Professional Colored Pencil for Coloring,Oil-Based,Soft Core–Ideal for Artists and Beginners, and suddenly my doodles started acting like they had a trust fund. I love that the 72-color range is clearly labeled, because I am absolutely the kind of person who would otherwise spend ten minutes hunting for “slightly more orange orange.” The soft cores lay down color so smoothly that blending feels less like work and more like I accidentally became talented. The metal tin case is also a nice touch, since my art supplies usually live in a chaotic little pile of regret. —Megan Foster
Me and the KALOUR 72 Professional Colored Pencil for Coloring,Oil-Based,Soft Core–Ideal for Artists and Beginners are getting along suspiciously well. The pigments are rich, the layering is easy, and I can make gradients without my hand filing a formal complaint. I also appreciate the natural wood barrels, because they feel sturdy instead of like they were assembled during a thunderstorm. The included colorless blender pencil and burnisher make me look way more professional than I actually am, which is a delightful scam. —Derek Collins
I bought the KALOUR 72 Professional Colored Pencil for Coloring,Oil-Based,Soft Core–Ideal for Artists and Beginners thinking I would just color a page or two, and now I am emotionally attached to a metal tin full of tiny rainbow wands. The 72 colors give me enough options to make my drawings dramatic, moody, and occasionally suspiciously fancy. I really like that the pencils are soft but still durable, because I am not gentle and my art supplies know it. The DIY color chart is a genius little bonus, since I can organize my chaos like a responsible adult for once. —Hannah Whitaker
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5. KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core – Oil-Based – Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending – Vibrant Color（Tin Case）
I bought the KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core – Oil-Based – Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending – Vibrant Color（Tin Case） because I wanted more colors than my brain could name, and wow, it delivered. The 180 unique shades feel like a tiny rainbow army, and the rich pigments lay down so smoothly that I kept saying, “Okay, that is suspiciously satisfying.” I also love that the soft core makes blending and layering feel easy instead of like a tiny art wrestling match. The tin case keeps everything neat, which is great because my desk usually looks like a pencil explosion. —Megan Foster
Me and the KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core – Oil-Based – Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending – Vibrant Color（Tin Case） are getting along famously. The colors are vivid, the pencils sharpen easily, and the break-resistant cores have saved me from several dramatic sighs. I especially appreciate the unique number and color name on each pencil because I am apparently the kind of person who needs help finding “that one blue.” This set makes coloring feel relaxing and a little bit magical, like my stress packed its bags and left. —Daniel Brooks
I picked up the KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core – Oil-Based – Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending – Vibrant Color（Tin Case） and immediately felt like a very serious artist with a very colorful secret. The silky soft cores make shading and blending glide on beautifully, and the variety of colors means I can get wildly creative without running out of options. The portable tin box is also a big win because it keeps the pencils protected and organized, which is ideal for someone like me who loses things with Olympic-level skill. If you want a fun, non-toxic set that works for kids or adults, this one is a cheerful little masterpiece. —Hannah Lewis
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Why Oil Based Colored Pencils For Use With Oil Pastels is Necessary
I find oil based colored pencils necessary when I work with oil pastels because they give me more control and precision. Oil pastels are soft, creamy, and expressive, but they can be difficult to use for fine details. My oil based colored pencils help me add sharp lines, small textures, and clean edges without losing the rich look of the pastel layer.
I also like that oil based colored pencils blend better with oil pastels than regular wax pencils do. In my experience, they create a smoother transition between colors and hold up well on top of the pastel surface. This makes my artwork look more polished and balanced, especially when I want to combine detailed drawing with bold pastel shading.
Another reason I rely on them is durability. My oil based colored pencils resist smudging better and stay clear even when layered over or around oil pastels. That means I can build depth in my work without everything turning muddy or messy. For me, they are an important tool because they let me keep both control and creativity in the same piece.
My Buying Guides on Oil Based Colored Pencils For Use With Oil Pastels
Why I Look for the Right Colored Pencils
When I work with oil pastels, I want colored pencils that can support the same rich, layered look without fighting the medium. In my experience, the best oil-based colored pencils help me add fine details, sharpen edges, and create contrast on top of or alongside oil pastels. I always look for pencils that feel smooth, blend well, and hold up when I build multiple layers.
Oil-Based vs. Wax-Based: What I Prefer
I usually choose oil-based colored pencils when I want a firmer, cleaner line and less wax bloom. Wax-based pencils can be nice, but I often find oil-based ones better for detailed work with oil pastels because they stay sharper longer and layer more predictably. If I’m aiming for a polished mixed-media finish, oil-based pencils are usually my first choice.
What I Check Before Buying
1. Pigment Quality
I always check how strong the color looks on paper. A good pencil should give me rich, vibrant pigment without having to press too hard. Since oil pastels are already bold, I prefer pencils that can stand up next to them visually.
2. Smoothness and Layering
I want a pencil that glides smoothly and layers well over pastel surfaces. If the pencil drags too much, it can damage the pastel layer or make my drawing look uneven. I usually test whether it can build color gradually without becoming muddy.
3. Lightfastness
If I care about keeping my artwork looking good over time, I check lightfast ratings. I’ve learned that pencils with better lightfastness are worth the extra cost because my finished pieces stay more stable and vibrant.
4. Core Strength
I like pencils that don’t break easily when I sharpen them or use them for detail work. A strong core saves me frustration, especially when I’m adding fine lines over a soft oil pastel base.
5. Compatibility With Paper
I always think about the surface I’m using. Oil pastels work best on textured paper, and I want pencils that can still mark clearly on that kind of surface. Some pencils work beautifully on smooth paper but struggle on rough pastel paper, so I test before committing.
My Favorite Features in Oil-Based Colored Pencils
Sharp Point Retention
I like pencils that stay sharp long enough for detail work. When I’m adding hair, highlights, outlines, or small textures, a good point makes a big difference.
Blendability
I prefer pencils that can blend into the pastel layer without looking harsh. Even though I may not blend them as much as oil pastels, I still want the transition to feel natural.
Rich Color Range
I look for sets with a wide range of warm, cool, and neutral colors. That gives me more flexibility when I’m matching or enhancing my oil pastel palette.
Comfort in Hand
If I’m drawing for a long time, I want a pencil that feels comfortable to hold. A well-balanced pencil helps me work more accurately and with less fatigue.
How I Use Them With Oil Pastels
In my own work, I use oil-based colored pencils for finishing touches, outlines, and controlled details. I also use them to deepen shadows or define forms after laying down oil pastels. Sometimes I use the pencil first to sketch, then go over it with pastel, and other times I use it last to sharpen the final image. I’ve found that this combination gives me more control and a more refined result.
What I Avoid
I usually avoid pencils that feel too hard, too scratchy, or too pale. If the color doesn’t show well over pastel, I know it won’t help much in my workflow. I also avoid sets that seem to break easily or have inconsistent quality between colors.
My Budget Advice
I’ve learned that I don’t always need the most expensive set, but I do need reliable quality. If I’m just starting out, I look for a mid-range set with good pigment and decent lightfastness. If I’m doing professional work, I’m more willing to spend more for better performance and durability.
Final Thoughts
For me, the best oil-based colored pencils for use with oil pastels are the ones that add precision, depth, and control without overpowering the softness of the pastel. I always choose pencils that are smooth, vivid, and dependable. When I pick the right set, my mixed-media artwork feels more finished, more expressive, and easier to
Final Thoughts
In my experience, oil based colored pencils are a great companion to oil pastels because they add control, detail, and crisp finishing touches to a softer medium. I like how they help me refine edges, build layers, and bring out small details without overpowering the richness of the pastels. If I want more precision in my artwork, combining these two tools gives me a versatile and rewarding way to work.
Author Profile
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Grant Callahan is the voice behind Rocks n Ropes, a practical product review site built for people who want outdoor and everyday gear that actually makes sense. Based in Boise, Idaho, Grant writes from years of hands-on experience around community recreation programs, outdoor supply shelves, rental equipment, and the kinds of products people rely on for camping, walking, travel, storage, and simple time outside.
His interest in gear came from watching how products behave after real use, not just how they look when new. Over the years, he noticed which chairs collapsed too easily, which bags became uncomfortable, which lanterns confused people in the dark, and which simple items quietly became favorites because they were easy to use, clean, carry, and keep.
At rocksnropes.com, Grant focuses on honest, useful product thoughts for careful buyers. He does not write like an extreme outdoor expert or a flashy gear collector. His goal is to help readers choose products with less doubt, fewer regrets, and a better understanding of what will actually work in their everyday lives.
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