Faber-Castell 112170 Pitt Pastel Pencil, Grey

The Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencil in Grey is a professional-grade artistic tool designed for artists who demand precision and high pigment intensity. This pencil features a unique oil-free and wax-free formula, ensuring that the pastel remains stable and easy to work with on various paper surfaces. Its composition allows for a smooth, vibrant application that mimics the qualities of traditional pastel crayons while offering the control of a pencil.

Advantages

The primary benefit of this pastel pencil is its exceptional pigment concentration, which provides rich, vibrant color laydown with every stroke. Because it is free from oil and wax, it prevents the waxy buildup often associated with colored pencils, allowing for effortless blending and smudging to create delicate color transitions. The pencil is highly lightfast, ensuring that your artwork maintains its brilliance over time. Furthermore, the use of PEFC-certified wood for the casing reflects a commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious artists.

Suitable for

• Detailed sketching and fine art drawing
• Creating precise lines in pastel compositions
• Layering and shading in mixed media projects
• Fine detail work that requires smudging and blending

When it may not be suitable

This pencil may not be the best choice for projects requiring heavy, glossy, or water-resistant finishes, as its pastel nature is designed to be matte and blendable. It is also not intended for use on non-porous surfaces like plastic or metal, where the pigment will not adhere properly.

Key specifications

• Lead diameter: 4.3 mm
• Color: Warm Grey I
• Formula: Acid-free, oil-free, and wax-free
• Sustainability: PEFC-certified wood
• Compatibility: Suitable for use with fixatives

How to use

To achieve the best results, apply the pencil with light pressure to build up layers gradually. The soft lead is designed for easy smudging, so you can use a blending stump, a soft cloth, or your fingers to transition between colors and soften edges. Because the pigment is delicate, it is recommended to use a fixative spray once your drawing is complete to protect the surface and prevent smudging.

What to consider before purchase

• Ensure you have a suitable sharpener for the 4.3 mm lead to maintain a fine point.
• Consider the texture of your paper, as pastel pencils perform best on surfaces with a slight tooth.
• Check if you require a fixative to preserve the final artwork.

Usage recommendations

For optimal results, use this pencil on textured pastel paper or high-quality drawing paper to allow the pigment to grip the surface effectively. Always apply a light fixative spray in thin, even coats to maintain the vibrancy of the grey pigment without altering the texture of your work.