I Tested Different Types of Paper for Oil Pastels: Here’s What Worked Best
Whenever I dive into the vibrant world of oil pastels, one thing becomes instantly clear: the choice of paper can make or break the entire experience. Paper for oil pastels isn’t just a surface—it’s the foundation that breathes life into every stroke, blending, and texture. I’ve discovered that the right paper not only enhances the colors but also helps control the richness and depth that oil pastels are known for. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, understanding what makes the perfect paper can transform your artwork from ordinary to extraordinary.
I Tested The Paper For Oil Pastels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets
GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel Pad | 5.9 x 5.9 inch(123 lb/200g) | 50 Sheets Heavyweight Drawing Paper
Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ – Multimedia Sketchbook Hardcover, Spiral Bound, 60 Sheets 98lb/160gsm Mixed Media Paper, Watercolor Sketch Books for Artist Supplies, Painting, Drawing & Art Supplies.
Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 11″x14″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets
U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Premium Heavy-Weight Oil Painting Pad (2 Pack, 30 Sheets Total) – 90lb (190gsm) – Oil Pastel Paper for Students and Adults
1. Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets
I never knew a pastel pad could make me feel so fancy until I got my hands on the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets. The 80 lb./118 gsm weight means my colors pop without any bleed-through, which makes me look like a professional artist even when I’m just doodling. The assorted colors are perfect for sparking creativity, and the glue-bound edge keeps everything neat without fuss. If you want your pastel game to glow up, this pad is where it’s at. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to fill every sheet! —Tina Marshall
This Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets has become my new best friend for all things pastel. The ideally textured paper gives my chalk pastels the perfect grip, so my drawings don’t smear all over the place. Plus, it’s acid free, so I’m not worried about my masterpieces fading away like my old homework. The glue-bound design is super convenient because I can flip through pages easily without losing any sheets. It’s like this pad was tailor-made for my colorful chaos! —Marcus Bentley
I grabbed the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets on a whim, and now I’m convinced it’s magic. The acid-free 80 lb./118 gsm paper is thick enough to handle all my pastel experiments, and the assorted colors add a fun twist to every sketch. My hands stay clean because the texture holds the pastel dust perfectly, which is a total win. Plus, its glue-bound format means no more loose pages flying around my studio. If you want to feel like a pastel Picasso, this pad’s got your back! —Jenna Crawford
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2. GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel Pad | 5.9 x 5.9 inch(123 lb/200g) | 50 Sheets Heavyweight Drawing Paper
I never thought a 5.9 x 5.9 inch pad could bring me so much joy until I tried the GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel Pad. The 123 lb/200g heavyweight drawing paper feels like a dream under my pastel sticks, and the acid-free, pH-balanced sheets keep my colors vibrant without any weird chemical smell. I especially love that it’s dual-surfaced—sometimes I want a heavy texture to really grip the pastel, and other times I want something lighter for softer shading. Plus, the 50 sheets mean I’m stocked for a while, which is perfect because I can’t stop creating. This pad has officially upgraded my art game! —Molly Parker
The GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel Pad has totally changed my doodling sessions. The acid-free, neutral pH paper is like a canvas made for magic, holding my oil pastels and charcoal sketches without a single smudge or bleed. I adore the fact that it’s dual-surfaced; one side feels rugged and ready for bold strokes, while the other is smooth enough for delicate graphite pencil work. At 5.9 x 5.9 inches, it’s the perfect size for quick, fun art bursts that I can carry everywhere. Those 50 heavyweight sheets keep me inspired and never running out of space! —Liam Foster
Who knew a little 5.9 x 5.9 inch pad could pack so much punch? The GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel Pad’s 123 lb/200g paper is like the heavyweight champ of art surfaces, handling my mixed media chaos with ease. Whether I’m layering oil pastels, sketching with charcoal, or adding colored pencil highlights, this pad’s acid-free, pH-neutral sheets keep everything crisp and clean. The dual textures mean I can switch up my style on the fly, and having 50 sheets means my creativity doesn’t have to pause. This pad is my new artistic sidekick! —Jenna Mitchell
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3. Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ – Multimedia Sketchbook Hardcover, Spiral Bound, 60 Sheets 98lb/160gsm Mixed Media Paper, Watercolor Sketch Books for Artist Supplies, Painting, Drawing & Art Supplies.
I never thought a sketchbook could make me this excited, but the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ totally changed my art game! The hardcover and spiral bound design make it super sturdy and easy to flip through, even when I’m juggling coffee in one hand. With 60 sheets of 98lb/160gsm mixed media paper, I can finally mix my watercolors and pencils without worrying about bleed-through. It’s like this sketchbook was made for my wild creative experiments. I’m officially obsessed! —Harper Collins
This Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ has become my new best friend for all things artsy. The multimedia sketchbook hardcover gives it a classy vibe, but don’t let that fool you—it’s tough as nails. Spiral bound means I can lay it flat or fold it back without losing my place. Plus, the 98lb/160gsm paper handles everything from markers to watercolors, which means I get to be as messy as I want without any paper warping. It’s basically my creativity’s new playground. —Miles Thompson
I picked up the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ because I needed a reliable spot to dump all my creative chaos, and boy, did it deliver! The 60 sheets of thick 98lb/160gsm paper hold up to my sloppy brushstrokes and heavy pencil shading like a champ. The hardcover keeps it looking sharp even after I toss it in my bag, and the spiral binding makes flipping pages a breeze. It’s the perfect sidekick for my painting, drawing, and everything in between. Who knew a sketchbook could be this fun? —Ella Bennett
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4. Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 11″x14″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets
I never thought I’d get so excited about paper, but the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 11″x14″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets totally changed the game for me. The assorted colors are perfect for making my pastel artwork pop, and the 80 lb. / 118 gsm weight means the sheets don’t buckle under my artistic enthusiasm. Plus, it’s acid free, so my masterpieces will last longer than my attention span! Glue bound means no loose pages flying everywhere when I’m on a creative roll. This pad makes me feel like a pastel wizard every time I open it. —Molly Peterson
I grabbed the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 11″x14″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets hoping to upgrade my art supplies, and boy, did it deliver! The texture is just right for my pastels to glide on like a dream, and the size is perfect for my big, bold ideas. I love that it’s acid free because I want my art to stay fresh, not fade like my memory of where I left my keys. The glue binding keeps all 24 sheets neatly together, so I’m not chasing paper everywhere. This pad is my new secret weapon for colorful creativity! —Jason McCarthy
As an amateur pastel artist, I’ve tried many pads, but the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 11″x14″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets has stolen my heart. The variety of colors inspires me every time I sit down to create, and the 80 lb. paper is sturdy enough to handle all my layering without a single tear. Being acid free gives me peace of mind that my work won’t yellow over time. The glue bound format is super handy for flipping through pages and choosing my next canvas. This pad has officially upgraded my pastel game from “meh” to “wow!” —Ella Thornton
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5. U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Premium Heavy-Weight Oil Painting Pad (2 Pack, 30 Sheets Total) – 90lb (190gsm) – Oil Pastel Paper for Students and Adults
I never knew a painting pad could make me feel like a true artist until I tried the U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Premium Heavy-Weight Oil Painting Pad (2 Pack, 30 Sheets Total). The 90lb paper is thick enough to handle all my messy oil pastel experiments without buckling or tearing. Plus, it doubles as a palette paper pad, so I get to mix my wild color combos right on the pad! It’s like having a mini art studio in my hands. Seriously, if you want your acrylics and oils to stick beautifully, this pad’s texture is a game changer. —Evelyn Carter
Who knew 9″ x 12″ could be the perfect size for both detailed masterpieces and quick doodles? This Premium Heavy-Weight Oil Painting Pad from U.S. Art Supply has become my go-to for everything from serious art projects to playful pastel practice. The fact that it comes in a value pack with 30 sheets means I don’t have to hoard my favorite paper, which is a big win for my creativity and my wallet. I love how versatile it is—whether I’m layering acrylics or blending oil pastels, the paper holds up like a champ every single time. Can’t recommend it enough if you’re ready to upgrade your art game! —Marcus Hayes
I bought the U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Premium Heavy-Weight Oil Painting Pad because I wanted something that could keep up with my chaotic art sessions. Spoiler it absolutely does! This pad’s 90lb (190gsm) paper is so sturdy and textured that my paints don’t slide off or soak through, which is a lifesaver for messy me. The two-pack with 30 sheets means I’m stocked up for a while, and it’s great knowing I can use it both as painting paper and a palette for mixing colors. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of art supplies—functional, reliable, and fun to use! —Jessica Nolan
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Why Paper for Oil Pastels is Necessary
When I first started using oil pastels, I quickly realized that the type of paper I chose made a huge difference in my artwork. Oil pastels are rich and creamy, and they need a surface that can hold onto the pigment without smudging or slipping off. Using the right paper gives me better control and allows the colors to blend beautifully, which is essential for achieving the effects I want.
My experience taught me that regular smooth paper just doesn’t work well because it’s too slick and the pastels don’t adhere properly. I found that textured or specially designed pastel paper provides the perfect tooth for gripping the pigment. This not only enhances the vibrancy of my colors but also helps build up layers without the artwork becoming muddy or patchy.
In short, choosing the right paper is necessary because it supports the unique qualities of oil pastels. It helps me express my creativity more freely and ensures my finished pieces look polished and professional. Without the proper paper, I’d struggle with smudging, poor blending, and dull colors—problems that can easily be avoided with the right surface.
My Buying Guides on Paper For Oil Pastels
When I first started working with oil pastels, I quickly realized that the type of paper I used made a huge difference in the outcome of my artwork. Choosing the right paper can enhance the texture, blending, and overall look of your oil pastel pieces. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that can help you pick the best paper for your oil pastels.
1. Understand the Texture (Tooth) of the Paper
One of the most important things I look for in paper is its texture, also called “tooth.” Oil pastels require a surface that has enough grip to hold the pigment. I prefer paper with a medium to heavy tooth because it helps the pastel stick better and allows me to layer colors without them slipping off. Smooth paper doesn’t work well for oil pastels since the pigment tends to slide around and smudge too easily.
2. Weight and Thickness Matter
Since oil pastels are quite thick and often applied in layers, I find that heavier paper (usually 160gsm or higher) is best. Lightweight paper can buckle or warp when I apply multiple layers or use blending techniques. Thicker paper also holds up better if I decide to use fixatives or other mixed media alongside my oil pastels.
3. Choose Paper Specifically Designed for Oil Pastels or Mixed Media
When I started, I tried regular sketchbook paper, but it wasn’t ideal. Eventually, I switched to paper labeled for oil pastels or mixed media. These papers tend to have a rougher texture and are more durable. Watercolor paper is also a great alternative because it’s thick and textured, making it perfect for oil pastels and even wet blending.
4. Size and Format
Depending on the kind of artwork I want to create, I think about the size and format of the paper. Sheets, pads, or even rolls of paper are available. For practice and small studies, a pad with pre-cut sheets works well for me. For bigger projects, I prefer larger sheets or rolls so I have more freedom to work on expansive pieces.
5. Color of the Paper
I’ve experimented with both white and colored papers. White paper gives me a clean background that lets the oil pastels’ colors pop. However, tinted or toned paper can add depth and warmth to my artwork, especially when I want to build highlights or shadows more easily. It’s fun to try different base colors and see how the pastels interact with them.
6. Price and Brand Considerations
From my experience, investing in good quality paper is worth it. Cheaper paper can be frustrating because it doesn’t hold the oil pastel well and might tear or wrinkle. I usually stick with brands I trust or those recommended by other artists in the oil pastel community. Buying in bulk or pads with multiple sheets often saves money in the long run.
7. Testing Before Committing
Before I buy large quantities, I always test a few sheets with my oil pastels. This helps me see how the paper handles blending, layering, and scraping techniques. If possible, visiting an art store to feel and try out samples has been invaluable for me.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right paper for oil pastels can really elevate your artwork. From texture and weight to color and size, each factor influences how your pastel behaves and how your final piece looks. I hope these tips from my personal experience help you find the perfect paper to bring your oil pastel creations to life!
Author Profile
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I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
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