Caran d'Ache Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels - 50 Years Special Edition Set of 10 Assorted Portrait Colours

Name: Caran d'Ache Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels - 50 Years Special Edition Set of 10 Assorted Portrait Colours
Brand: Caran d'Ache
SKU: twkbfj3gme
Price: 35.99 GBP
Availability: InStock

The Caran d’Ache Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels 50 Years Special Edition Portrait Set offers 10 hig...

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Full details

This Caran d’Ache Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels 50 Years Special Edition Portrait Set is designed for artists, students, and hobbyists focused on creating realistic and expressive portraits. Its key benefit is the curated selection of 10 water-soluble colors that blend seamlessly with water for smooth gradients and vibrant results, offering exceptional versatility for both wet and dry techniques. A potential caveat is that this is a limited edition set, meaning availability may be restricted over time.

All features

Model Part Number	7500916
Brand	Caran d'Ache

Extended Product Information

FAQs

What is the main difference between Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels and regular Neocolor I Pastels?

Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels are water-soluble, meaning they can be activated with water and used to create watercolor effects. Neocolor I Pastels are oil-based and not water-soluble, offering a creamier, waxier texture for dry application.

How do I achieve smooth gradients with these pastels?

Apply the pastel dry onto paper, then use a wet brush to blend and lift the color. You can also apply water to the paper first (wet-on-wet technique) and then apply the pastel, allowing it to diffuse.

Are the special edition colors permanent?

Yes, all Caran d’Ache Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels, including the special edition colors, offer excellent lightfastness, ensuring the colors remain vibrant over time.

Can I use these pastels for sketching before painting?

Absolutely. They can be used dry for sketching, and the lines can then be dissolved with water to integrate them into a watercolor painting or to create dynamic lines within a mixed-media piece.

What kind of paper is best for Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels?

For dry use, most drawing papers will work. For wet techniques, heavier papers like watercolor paper (at least 140lb/300gsm) are recommended to prevent buckling.

How do I clean my brushes after using these pastels?

Rinse your brushes thoroughly with water immediately after use. Use a bit of soap if needed to remove any oily residue.

Is this a good set for beginners interested in portraiture?

Yes, this set is excellent for beginners focusing on portraiture due to its curated color palette and the versatility of water-soluble pastels for blending skin tones.

Troubleshooting

Pastel is too hard or doesn't activate with water

Ensure you are using sufficient water with a brush. If the pastel has been exposed to extreme dryness, try applying more water or a different brush. The texture is naturally firm but should blend with adequate moisture.

Color appears dull after drying

This can sometimes happen with water-soluble media. Try applying a second layer of pigment once the first has dried, or consider using a fixative spray designed for pastels once the artwork is complete and fully dry.

Accidental color mixing on the pastel stick

Gently clean the surface of the pastel stick with a soft cloth. For minor contamination, you can lightly sand the surface or carefully shave off the contaminated layer.

Artwork smudges easily after completion

Ensure the artwork is completely dry. Apply a suitable art fixative spray for pastels (test on a scrap piece first). Handle the finished artwork with care, avoiding direct contact with the pastel surface.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Water-soluble for versatile blending and washes
Palette specifically curated for portraiture
High-quality Caran d’Ache pigmentation
Includes exclusive anniversary colors
Durable and lightfast colors
Portable and convenient for artists on the go

Cons

Limited edition, may become scarce
Primarily focused on portraiture, may require supplemental colors for other subjects
Water-soluble nature means finished work can be reactivated if exposed to moisture
Wax pastel texture may not suit all artistic preferences

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup: This set requires no setup. The pastels are ready to use directly from the commemorative packaging.

Compatibility: Caran d’Ache Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels are compatible with various art surfaces, including paper, cardstock, and canvas. They can be used dry or wet and integrate well with other media such as pencils, markers, ink, and watercolor. For optimal results with wet techniques, use papers with a good tooth and weight (e.g., watercolor paper).

Care:

Storage: Store the pastels in their original box or a dedicated art supply case to protect them from dust, moisture, and damage. Keep them away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
Cleaning: To clean the pastels, gently wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth. If a pastel becomes excessively soiled or if you need to clean up pigment transfer between colors, a slightly damp cloth can be used sparingly, ensuring the pastel dries completely before storage. Avoid soaking the pastels.
Usage: When using wet techniques, allow layers to dry thoroughly before applying subsequent layers to prevent unwanted smudging or color mixing. Use appropriate brushes for applying water.