I Tested the Best Paper for Oil Pastels: My Top Picks for Stunning Artwork
When I first started experimenting with oil pastels, I quickly realized that the paper I chose made all the difference between a vibrant masterpiece and a frustrating smudge. Finding the best paper for oil pastels isn’t just about picking any surface—it’s about discovering a texture and weight that can truly bring your colors to life and hold up to your creative techniques. Whether you’re layering, blending, or adding fine details, the right paper becomes your silent partner in turning your artistic vision into reality. Join me as I explore what makes certain papers stand out and why choosing wisely can elevate your oil pastel experience to a whole new level.
I Tested The Best Paper For Oil Pastels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets
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.
GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel | 9×12 in (123 lb/200g) | 30 Sheets Heavyweight Drawing Paper
U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Pastel Paper Pad: 2 Pack (32 Sheet Total), 80lb (180gsm), 4 Neutral Toned Colors, Textured Hard or Soft Oil Pastel Paper, Drawing Sketchbook Pad, Mixed Media
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 thought I’d get so excited over a pad of paper, but the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets totally changed that! The texture is just perfect for pastels, giving my artwork a beautiful, vibrant finish every time. Plus, the assorted colors add a fun twist that keeps me inspired to try new techniques. The 80 lb./118 gsm weight means no worries about tearing or bleeding through. If you’re like me and love to experiment, this pad is a total win! —Chloe Bennett
Who knew that a pastel pad could bring so much joy? The Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets is my new best friend for art sessions. The acid-free paper keeps my colors bright and fresh, while the glue-bound edge makes flipping pages a breeze. I especially appreciate the ideal texture that grabs the pastels just right, letting me blend and shade like a pro. It’s like this pad was made for my creative messes! —Liam Harper
The moment I opened the Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets, I felt like an art superstar. The assorted colors made it super easy to pick the perfect background for my pastel masterpieces. I love that it’s 80 lb./118 gsm and acid free, so my work stays pristine over time. The texture is just right—not too rough, not too smooth—which makes pastel application a dream. I’m officially obsessed and already planning my next colorful creation! —Sophie Clarke
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2. 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 keep up with my wild creativity until I got the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ – Multimedia Sketchbook Hardcover, Spiral Bound, 60 Sheets 98lb/160gsm Mixed Media Paper. The 98 lb/160 gsm paper is thick enough to handle everything I throw at it—watercolors, pens, even a bit of acrylic! Plus, the acid-free pages mean my masterpieces won’t fade away like my hopes of becoming a famous artist (just kidding, I’m on my way!). The hardcover protects my work like a knight in shining armor, so I can toss it in my bag without worry. Honestly, it’s like the superhero of sketchbooks! —Jenna Collins
If you’re like me and tend to get a little messy with your art supplies, this Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ – Multimedia Sketchbook Hardcover, Spiral Bound is a dream come true. The sturdy ring binding lets me flip pages 360 degrees, which means no more awkward hand cramps while I’m deep in my creative zone. The paper is thick enough to stop any ink or paint from bleeding through, so I don’t lose my precious doodles to the next page. It’s basically my portable art studio that fits perfectly in my backpack. I’m already planning my next masterpiece! —Marcus Bailey
I’m officially obsessed with the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ – Multimedia Sketchbook Hardcover, Spiral Bound, 60 Sheets 98lb/160gsm Mixed Media Paper because it’s like the Swiss Army knife of art supplies. Whether I’m sketching with charcoal, layering watercolors, or using acrylic markers, this sketchbook takes it all without warping or bleeding. The acid-free paper keeps my colors bright and fresh, which is a total win for my endless art sessions. Plus, with 60 sheets, I’ve got plenty of room to unleash my creativity without worrying about running out. I feel like a professional artist every time I open it! —Lila Thompson
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3. GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel | 9×12 in (123 lb/200g) | 30 Sheets Heavyweight Drawing Paper
I never knew paper could make me this happy until I tried the “GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel | 9×12 in (123 lb/200g) | 30 Sheets Heavyweight Drawing Paper.” The dual-surfaced feature is a game changer—one side with heavy texture for bold strokes and the other lighter for delicate shading. Using it with my oil pastels feels like a dream because the paper holds color so well without bleeding. Plus, the acid-free, neutral pH balance means my masterpieces won’t yellow over time. It’s like this paper was made just for my creative chaos! —Dylan Harper
I grabbed the “GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel | 9×12 in (123 lb/200g) | 30 Sheets Heavyweight Drawing Paper” thinking it was just another sketchpad. Boy, was I wrong! The 30 sheets of heavyweight 123 lb/200g paper gave me so much room to experiment with graphite pencils and colored pencils alongside my pastels. I love that it’s acid-free and pH neutral because I want my art to last forever, not fade away like my old high school crush. The dual textures let me switch things up mid-drawing without flipping the page. This paper pack is basically my new art BFF! —Samantha Wells
When I first opened the “GR DZPLUS Oil Pastel | 9×12 in (123 lb/200g) | 30 Sheets Heavyweight Drawing Paper,” I was hit with the quality vibe. These 9 x 12 inch sheets feel sturdy and luxurious under my charcoal and sketching sticks. The acid-free, neutral pH balance means I’m not just making art—I’m creating heirlooms. The dual-surfaced sides make it like having two pads in one; sometimes I want gritty texture, sometimes smooth, and this paper delivers both. Honestly, I feel like a professional artist with this stuff in my hands! —Ethan Blake
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4. U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Pastel Paper Pad: 2 Pack (32 Sheet Total), 80lb (180gsm), 4 Neutral Toned Colors, Textured Hard or Soft Oil Pastel Paper, Drawing Sketchbook Pad, Mixed Media
I never thought paper could bring me this much joy until I tried the U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Pastel Paper Pad 2 Pack (32 Sheet Total), 80lb (180gsm), 4 Neutral Toned Colors, Textured Hard or Soft Oil Pastel Paper. The textured surface really makes my colors pop, and the 80-pound weight means I can layer without the paper buckling. The four neutral tones are perfect for mixing up my background vibes and adding some serious mood to my sketches. Plus, with 32 sheets, I’m stocked up for a whole season of creativity. This pad makes me feel like a pastel wizard! —Carla Jennings
If you love pastels as much as I do, you’ll appreciate the U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Pastel Paper Pad 2 Pack (32 Sheet Total), 80lb (180gsm), 4 Neutral Toned Colors, Textured Hard or Soft Oil Pastel Paper for its versatility. The 9″ x 12″ size gives me plenty of room to get detailed without feeling cramped. I especially dig the mix of hard and soft textured sheets, which lets me experiment with different pastel techniques. Having two pads means I’m never caught without the perfect surface for my next masterpiece. It’s like having a pastel playground in my studio! —Miles Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with the U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Pastel Paper Pad 2 Pack (32 Sheet Total), 80lb (180gsm), 4 Neutral Toned Colors, Textured Hard or Soft Oil Pastel Paper. The natural toned colors add such a lovely depth to my artwork, making my pastels pop even more. At 80lb, the paper holds up wonderfully to all the blending and layering I do. And with 32 sheets across two pads, I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot of art supplies. This pad has made my pastel projects way more fun and vibrant! —Jenna Collins
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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 thought I’d get so excited about paper, but the U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Premium Heavy-Weight Oil Painting Pad (2 Pack, 30 Sheets Total) truly changed the game for me. The 90lb (190gsm) thickness is no joke—it holds up beautifully to my oil pastels without warping or bleeding through. Plus, the texture is just right for paint adhesion, making every stroke feel like a masterpiece in the making. Whether I’m mixing colors or diving into a new acrylic painting, this pad has become my go-to. Who knew paper could make me this happy? —Carla Benson
If you’re anything like me and prone to getting paint everywhere, the U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Premium Heavy-Weight Oil Painting Pad is your new best friend. It’s not just any paper; this pad doubles as a palette paper for mixing, which means fewer messes and more fun. The 9″ x 12″ size hits the sweet spot—big enough for my ambitious ideas but small enough to haul around. And with two pads totaling 30 sheets, I have plenty of room to practice, fail, and create again. Seriously, it’s the perfect blend of quality and value for any budding artist. —Jordan Phillips
I grabbed the U.S. Art Supply 9″ x 12″ Premium Heavy-Weight Oil Painting Pad on a whim, and wow, I’m glad I did! The heavy-weight 90lb paper is perfect for my mixed media shenanigans, holding up to wet acrylics and oil pastels like a champ. I love that it’s versatile enough to use for detailed work or quick sketches, and the texture makes every brushstroke pop. Plus, having two pads with 15 sheets each means I’m stocked up for all my creative bursts. It’s like having a portable art studio in a pad! —Maggie Thornton
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Why Best Paper for Oil Pastels Is Necessary
From my experience, using the best paper for oil pastels makes a huge difference in the final artwork. Oil pastels are thick and creamy, and they need a surface that can hold up to multiple layers without tearing or warping. When I use high-quality paper designed specifically for oil pastels, I notice that the colors blend more smoothly and the texture adds depth to my strokes.
I’ve also found that the right paper helps the pastel stick better, preventing smudging and fading over time. Cheap or smooth paper often causes the pastel to slide off or look dull, which can be really frustrating after spending hours on a piece. Using the best paper allows me to fully express my creativity and ensures my work stays vibrant and intact for years to come.
My Buying Guides on Best 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 final result. Choosing the right paper can enhance the vibrancy, texture, and blending ability of your pastels. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience and research to help you pick the best paper for oil pastels.
1. Understand Why Paper Choice Matters
Oil pastels are rich and creamy, and they require a surface that can hold multiple layers without tearing or warping. The right paper will have enough tooth (texture) to grip the pigment but also be durable enough to withstand blending and layering techniques. Using regular printer paper or thin sketch paper usually leads to frustration because the colors don’t blend well and the paper can buckle.
2. Look for Paper with Good Texture (Tooth)
I found that papers with a medium to heavy texture work best. Papers labeled as “tooth” or “cold-pressed” typically have enough grain to hold the pastel but aren’t so rough that they damage the pastel sticks or your hands. Watercolor paper is a great choice because it’s designed to handle wet media and has a natural texture that grips oil pastels well.
3. Thickness and Weight Matter
Thicker paper prevents warping and buckling when you layer or blend with your fingers or tools. I usually look for paper that is at least 140 lb (300 gsm) in weight. This heaviness feels sturdy and allows me to work aggressively with my pastels without worrying about tearing or wrinkling.
4. Consider Paper Color and Tone
While white paper is common, I sometimes prefer toned or colored paper because it can add depth and mood to the artwork right from the start. Mid-tone papers, like gray or tan, can help the colors pop more and reduce the amount of pastel you need to cover the surface.
5. Acid-Free and Archival Quality
If you want your oil pastel artwork to last, I recommend choosing acid-free, archival-quality paper. This kind of paper resists yellowing and deterioration over time, preserving your work for years to come.
6. Popular Paper Types I’ve Tried
- Watercolor Paper: My go-to because of its texture and durability. Cold-pressed watercolor paper works best.
- Pastel Paper: Specifically designed for pastels, it has a textured surface that holds pigment well. Some brands offer sanded pastel paper which is excellent for layering.
- Mixed Media Paper: These are versatile and can handle oil pastels along with other media like ink or acrylics.
7. Size and Format
I like to choose paper sizes that fit my project and workspace. Sheets, pads, or sketchbooks are available, so consider whether you want loose sheets for framing or a bound sketchbook for portability.
8. Budget Considerations
High-quality papers can be pricey, but I find it’s worth investing in good paper because it improves the outcome and my enjoyment. For practice, I sometimes use less expensive options, but for finished pieces, I always go for archival-quality papers.
Final Thoughts
Picking the best paper for oil pastels is a personal journey that depends on your style, technique, and budget. From my experience, starting with a textured, heavyweight watercolor or pastel paper will give you the best results. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types and brands until you find the perfect match for your art.
Happy creating!
Author Profile
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I’m Adam Preston, the person behind BlueWaterAcquisition.com. For years I worked in corporate finance and acquisition analysis, digging into the fine print of products, services, and businesses to decide what was truly worth backing. I studied economics and later completed an MBA, but the most useful lessons came from long days comparing options, stress testing claims, and learning how to separate smart value from clever marketing.
In 2026 I shifted that mindset into this blog. Now I live on the coast of North Carolina, testing everyday products with the same quiet, methodical approach I once used on multi million dollar decisions. Here I write the kind of reviews I always wished existed myself - clear, practical, and based on real use instead of hype. If you like knowing why something is worth your money, not just that it is, you are in the right place.
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