STABILO CarbOthello Chalk-Pastel Pencil - Ivory - 12 Pack
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Product Information
Full details
The STABILO CarbOthello chalk-pastel pencil is designed for professional artists and illustrators who require a unique combination of charcoal-like texture and the precision of a pencil. Its primary benefit is the soft 4.4mm lead that blends seamlessly on paper, providing excellent control for detailed drawing, though users should note that it performs best when applied specifically to rough-surfaced drawing paper to ensure proper pigment adhesion.
All features
| Brand | STABILO |
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Extended Product Information
FAQs
Are these pencils truly charcoal?
No, they are chalk-pastel pencils, but they are formulated to mimic the dry, dusty stroke and texture of charcoal.
Do I need to sharpen these like a normal pencil?
Yes, but use a sharpener meant for art pencils to avoid damaging the soft 4.4mm core.
Can I use these on canvas?
They work best on rough paper, but they can be used on primed canvas if it has enough tooth to grab the chalk pigments.
How do I make the colors water-soluble?
Simply apply the pigment to the paper and use a wet brush or damp sponge to blend and distribute the color across the surface.
Are the colors lightfast?
STABILO CarbOthello pencils are crafted for professional use and offer high color brilliance, but like all pastel-based products, they should be stored away from direct sunlight to maintain vibrancy.
Troubleshooting
Lead breaks during sharpening
Use a manual sharpener with a fresh blade and avoid applying excessive pressure; soft-core pencils prefer slow, gentle turns.
Pigment does not adhere well to the paper
Switch to a paper with more tooth or a rougher surface texture; the pencil requires a gritty surface to anchor the pigment particles.
Colors are smudging too easily
Use a fixative spray to lock the pigments in place, or work from top to bottom on the page to avoid dragging your hand through drawn areas.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-quality pigment dispersion
- Precise application compared to traditional pastel sticks
- Excellent for mixed-media techniques
- Durable casing reduces lead breakage
Cons
- Requires specific rough-surfaced paper for best results
- Dusty nature can be messy if not fixed
- Not intended for smooth, non-porous surfaces
Setup, Compatibility & Care
To maximize the life of your pencils, use a high-quality sharpener designed for soft-core art pencils to avoid snapping the tip. Because the lead is inherently soft and dusty, it is recommended to keep a kneadable eraser nearby for lifting highlights or correcting mistakes without smearing. Since these pencils are partially water-soluble, consider using synthetic brushes for wetting the pigment, as they handle the chalky residue better than natural hair brushes. For long-term preservation of your work, store finished drawings in a protective sleeve or apply a professional-grade pastel fixative to prevent smudging and pigment loss.